Researchers Calling for Health Insurance Simplification

December 7, 2017

Many Americans, even the most experienced health insurance “shoppers,” struggle choosing and using health insurance plans.

A 2017 study by the Health Disparities Institute of UConn Health showed that many patients across Connecticut don’t understand their complex, jargon-filled private health insurance plans nor use their plan benefits correctly. As a result, consumers often pay more for premiums and spend more out-of-pocket than they would if they only had simpler, more consumer-friendly choices and better decision-making tools.

On Wednesday, Dec. 13 from 8:30 a.m.-12:00 noon the Health Disparities Institute will host a Health Insurance Simplification Seminar at UConn Health’s Cell and Genomics Building at 400 Farmington Ave in Farmington, CT.

The event is gathering together the health insurance field’s top behavioral economists including George Loewenstein, Ph.D. and Saurabh Bhargava, Ph.D. from Carnegie Mellon University’s Center for Behavioral Decision Research. They will share their latest groundbreaking research about the consequences of health insurance complexity and evidence-based prescriptions for health insurance reform.

The seminar will address questions such as:

  • How and why simplify health insurance plans and their language?
  • Why so many people, whether low income or the sickest, choose health plans that are economically disadvantageous to them?
  • Are there ways consumers could predictably make “smarter” health insurance choices?

Register for the free seminar (Note: limited seats available) at:
https://health.uconn.edu/health-disparities/health-insurance-simplification-seminar-series-2017-2/.

The event is co-sponsored by HDI and the CT Health Foundation.

 For more information contact: Dr. Victor G. Villagra, HDI’s associate director at victorg.villagra@gmail.com.

 

 

Looking at Us: Debbie Baril, Friendly Face in the Gift Shop

Debbie Baril, manager of the Connucopia Gift Shop at UConn Health (Photo by Tina Encarnacion)

If you’ve been to the Connucopia Gift Shop, either in its old location in the main lobby, its current location on the University Tower mezzanine, or the kiosk in the Outpatient Pavilion, chances are you’ve exchanged smiles with Debbie Baril. Debbie has been managing the gift shop, which is part of the UConn Health Auxiliary, since 2006. She lives in Winsted with her husband, Marcel, and their two dogs, and has three grown children.

How has the first year been in the new location, on the mezzanine of the University Tower?

The gift shop was in the main lobby of the original hospital building for more than 35 years. The transition to the new building was both bittersweet and exciting. We loved our old location but we’re now in a new, lovely, light-filled space. We are also lucky to have great neighbors, Starbucks!

How would you describe your customers?

We cater to visitors, patients, staff and students alike. I would estimate staff and students make up about 70 percent of our business at this time. We see fewer visitors and patients at the new location, but we’re always thrilled when we can help them find that special gift or at least provide a place they can come, take a break, window shop and regroup. It’s always humbling to receive a thank you note from a customer telling you how much you helped at a difficult time. We have many “regulars” who frequent the shop. We have everything from women who wait for the new apparel to arrive to get the best selection to staff who come in for their daily pack of gum. It’s been a challenging road with the move, but our regulars have remained loyal.

Debbie Baril

Favorite musical:
“Aida”

Favorite musician:
James Taylor (Our annual Fourth of July tradition at Tanglewood!)

Favorite time of year:
Definitely the Christmas season. In our house it begins with caroling on Thanksgiving night and ending with a “new year around-the-world” party on New Year’s Eve at my house with friends and family.

Favorite delicacy:
A recipe for gravlax given to me by a retired Connucopia volunteer. It has now become our annual “tree trimming” dinner.

Favorite vacation spot:
One of my favorite places on earth is Martha’s Vineyard. We vacation there every year and now my children will continue the tradition when they have their own families.

What should people know about the kiosk in the Outpatient Pavilion?

In 2015 we opened a small satellite shop on the first floor of the Outpatient Pavilion. We staff that shop from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the week and are closed at that location on the weekends. We carry a small selection of gifts, accessories, UConn products and edibles.

What is the connection with the UConn Health Auxiliary?

The Connucopia is owned by the UConn Health Auxiliary. All profits from the two Connucopia Gift Shops as well as the UConn Health Auxiliary Thrift Shop benefit the Auxiliary, which supports UConn Health in many ways. The shops are the major source of revenue for the Auxiliary, which also benefits from membership dues, special events and vendor sales. We host vendor sales on campus anywhere from one to as many as six times a week during the holiday months. We’ve recently been lucky enough to host two farm trucks, Harvest Bakery and Truffles Food Truck, thanks to Allan Peterson [director of Parking, Transportation and Event Services].

How do you staff the Gift Shop locations?

It takes six paid employees to staff both Connucopia shops. We have one paid employee on every shift including nights and weekends. We’re fortunate to have the help of two to four volunteers per day. They assist in the main gift shop by waiting on customers, checking in and marking new products, as well as merchandising and restocking.

What’s something about the Gift Shop most folks should know but probably don’t?

Our merchandise updates constantly so our customers see something new at every visit. We’ve worked hard making the Connucopia into a mini department store. We sell everything from the new dress you need because you forgot about an after-work event, flowers, cards and gifts to brighten a patients room to UConn apparel to wear to the game. We stock a full array of sundries and tech accessories. We also carry books of stamps. As the Connucopia is not for profit, there is no sales tax charged!

Employee Recognition: The 2017 Dr. Deckers Award Goes To…

Inspiration, celebration, and comradery were at the center of this year’s employee recognition ceremony, which honored milestone years of service and announced Kirsten Shea from Correctional Managed Health Care as the winner of the ninth annual Dr. Peter J. Deckers Employee Appreciation Award.

Kirsten Shea accepts the 2017 Dr. Peter J. Deckers Employee Appreciation Award from Dr. Peter Deckers (left) and Dr. Andrew Agwunobi. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)

The Dr. Deckers Award is given to an outstanding employee who consistently demonstrates commitment and passion, strong leadership, exemplary professional skills, and commendable personal attributes, all in support of the UConn Health mission.  Kirsten is an information technology administrator, nominated by CMHC Information Technology Director Michael Vasquenza.

“I work with the most amazing, dedicated, and talented people,” Kirsten says. “To be singled out and recognized for my contribution is truly humbling.”

The 2017 Dr. Peter J Deckers Employee Appreciation Award Nominees

The 2017 Employee Recognition Celebration was held in the Academic Rotunda at UConn Health on November 21, 2017. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health photo)

The Nov. 21 ceremony, hosted by Dr. Andy Agwunobi and presented by Organization and Staff Development, also recognized 731 UConn Health employees achieving milestones of five, 10, 15 or 20 years of service.

“This is an opportunity to spotlight and appreciate the amazing work done every day at UConn Health,” says Cindy Molin, director of Organization and Staff Development.

‘HealthONE in the Know”: Medical Residents and Students

HealthONE: What’s in It for Students and Residents?

In the latest “HealthONE in the Know” video, Dr. Denis Lafreniere, associate dean of clinical affairs, explains how medical residents and students will benefit from the electronic medical record system debuting at UConn Health in the spring.

https://youtu.be/cf3abb0zhIk

UConn Health December 2017 Programs, Events

November 20, 2017

Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for December 2017 and early January 2018. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes.

Living Well With Epilepsy: A Support Group for Young Adults
Saturday, Dec. 2, noon to 1:30 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd Floor, Large Conference Room S3301
The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut, in partnership with the UConn Health Department of Neurology, offers a support group for young adults who live with epilepsy. This group is open to those aged 18 to 30 who would like to join others to share experience, gain peer support, and learn together about epilepsy and overcoming its challenges to live well. The group generally meets on the first Saturday of the month. Please call 860-346-1924 or email manzelone.efct@sbcglobal.net for more information.

Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, Dec. 2, 2 p.m., UConn Health, University Tower lobby
A representative will guide you through labor and delivery, postpartum, and the nursery at the UConn John Dempsey Hospital. Children and grandparents are welcome. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, Dec. 2, 2 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health patients) are invited to join others whose lives have been touched by bladder cancer. This support group, established in partnership with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, usually meets on the first Saturday of the month and is the only group of its kind in New England. Call 888-901-BCAN for more information.

Childbirth Preparation Class
Wednesday, Dec. 6, 6 to 10 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor conference room S3301
This one-day class covers anatomy and physiology of pregnancy and labor, emotions of pregnancy, nutrition, fetal growth and development, comfort measures for labor, working with unexpected events in labor, cesarean delivery, and practice of relaxation and breathing techniques for labor. Class size is limited to eight couples. Remember to bring two pillows and wear comfortable clothing. Light snack is provided. Fee is $100. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 to register or for more information.

UConn Health Epilepsy Support Group
Wednesday, Dec. 6, 6:30 to 8 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 1st Floor, Large Conference Room S1501
The UConn Health Department of Neurology invites those with epilepsy to a monthly group meeting surrounding life with epilepsy. Discussion topics include coping methods, support systems, and resources. The group generally will meet on the first Wednesday of the month. Please call 860-679-3186 for more information.

Breast-feeding Class
Tuesday, Dec. 12, 6 to 8 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor conference room S3301
A certified lactation consultant leads a discussion of topics including the benefits of breast-feeding, how to get started, and how the rest of the family can help the breast-feeding mother as well as how to continue breast-feeding and working. Fee is $25 per couple. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

Free Cosmetology Services for Cancer Survivors
Monday, Dec. 18, 1 to 3 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 4th floor
“Look Good…Feel Better” is a free program to help improve the self-image and self-esteem of women experiencing appearance-related side effects from cancer treatment. During this hands-on workshop, a trained volunteer certified cosmetologist will teach women how to cope with skin changes and hair loss using cosmetic and skin care products donated by the cosmetic industry. Classes are offered every other month and are not limited to UConn Health patients. Please call 860-679-7820 to register (required).

Living With Heart Disease Meeting
Thursday, Dec. 21, 11 a.m. to noon, UConn Health, University Tower, 2nd floor conference room
Men and women affected by heart disease meet on the third Thursday of the month to discuss post-diagnosis topics such as prevention and wellness, social and emotional support, heart-healthy recipes, coping strategies and resources. Significant others and caregivers are also welcome to attend. Please call Sue at 860-679-3633 for more information.

Breast Cancer Support Group
Thursday, Dec. 21, 7 to 8 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
This is a support group intended for women under the age of 45 who’ve been diagnosed with non-metastatic breast cancer. Women at any point in their cancer survivorship journey are welcome. Meetings are the third Thursday of the month. To register or more information, call 860-679-7820 or email tillinghast@uchc.edu.

Infertility Peer Support Group
Thursday, Dec. 21, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, 2 Batterson Park Road, Farmington.
The Greater Hartford chapter of RESOLVE, a national nonprofit resource for those facing the challenges of infertility, offers support, information and confidential, informal, peer-led discussions on the third Thursday of the month. To learn more or to check for weather-related cancellation, call 860-523-8337.

Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, Dec. 23, 2 p.m., UConn Health, University Tower lobby
A representative will guide you through labor and delivery, postpartum, and the nursery at the UConn John Dempsey Hospital. Children and grandparents are welcome. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

Stroke Survivor Group
Wednesday, Dec. 27, noon to 1 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor
The UConn Health Stroke Center invites stroke survivors, families and caregivers to a monthly group meeting to discuss topics such as prevention, coping methods, support systems, rehabilitation tips, resources, and promoting independence. The Stroke Survivor Group generally meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month. Call 860-679-4846 for more information.

UConn Health Epilepsy Support Group
Wednesday, Jan. 3, 6:30 to 8 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd Floor, Large Conference Room S3301
The UConn Health Department of Neurology invites those with epilepsy to a monthly group meeting surrounding life with epilepsy. Discussion topics include coping methods, support systems, and resources. The group generally meets on the first Wednesday of the month. Please call 860-679-3186 for more information.

Living Well With Epilepsy: A Support Group for Young Adults
Saturday, Jan. 6, noon to 1:30 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 6th Floor, Conference Room S6300
The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut, in partnership with the UConn Health Department of Neurology, offers a support group for young adults who live with epilepsy. This group is open to those aged 18 to 30 who would like to join others to share experience, gain peer support, and learn together about epilepsy and overcoming its challenges to live well. The group generally meets on the first Saturday of the month. Please call 860-346-1924 or email manzelone.efct@sbcglobal.net for more information.

Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, Jan. 6, 2 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health patients) are invited to join others whose lives have been touched by bladder cancer. This support group, established in partnership with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, usually meets on the first Saturday of the month and is the only group of its kind in New England. Call 888-901-BCAN for more information.

New 6-week “Ready to Lose” Weight Management Program Starts
Tuesday, Jan. 9, 5 to 6 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd floor east
The introductory session is followed by five weekly sessions through Tuesday, Feb. 13, that include a weigh-in, discussion of progress, and a timely nutrition topic such as eating out strategies, cooking light and right, emotional eating, exercise and activity, and smart shopping. Registration fee is $70, $50 for past participants. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 for more information.

Directions to UConn Health are available at http://bit.ly/get2uch.

‘HealthONE In the Know’: Elevating Patient Care

November 17, 2017

HealthONE: What Will It Do for Patient Care?

In the latest “HealthONE In the Know” video, our CIO Bruce Metz explains how our new electronic medical record system will enhance the delivery of patient care.

https://youtu.be/26u2bnq3Ah4

First Stroke Thrombectomy Alert

November 16, 2017

Neurosurgery Chief Dr. Ketan Bulsara performing a surgical procedure at UConn Health. (Ethan Giorgetti/UConn Health)

UConn John Dempsey Hospital’s Stroke Center directed by Dr. Sanjay Mittal, successfully performed its first-ever mechanical thrombectomy procedure on a patient presenting with advanced stroke symptoms in the Emergency Department last week.

The Stroke Center’s first “Stroke Thrombectomy Alert” quickly activated the Cath Lab and Anesthesia teams to prepare for Neurosurgery Chief Dr. Ketan Bulsara’s emergency thrombectomy intervention. The procedure was guided by the Radiology Department Chair Dr. Leo Wolansky and his team’s new neuroimaging CT perfusion imaging technique using RAPID software to successfully remove the stroke patient’s life-threatening clot and restore proper blood flow to the brain.

The multidisciplinary team effort included Dr. Electra Kaloudis, Dr. Gracia Mui, Dr. Ronald Burt, Dr. Brian Bullard, Ellen Benson, Jennifer Sposito, Kerri King, Kari Kriqui, Liz Drotar, Sally Briley, Mike Castagna, Dan Hannon and Elizabeth Bozzuto, along with the hospital’s ICU and second-floor care teams.

Thanks to excellent team work this patient’s life was saved from a basilar artery thrombus which has up to a 90 percent risk of mortality.

The addition of on-site thrombectomy capabilities is part of an institutional-wide initiative to improve neurological patient outcomes for complex conditions, such as stroke, by growing our team of experts, services, and cutting-edge technology.

 

Congratulations PAWS Award Recipients Nov. 2017

PAWS and Husky Hero Award recipients with Dr. Andy Agwunobi. November 16, 2017. (Kristin Wallace/UConn Health photo)

Human Resources is pleased to announce the November 2017 PAWS award recipients – employees who consistently perform above and beyond the expectations of their job and exhibit the following attributes:  Part of a team | Awesome attitude | Wonderful work ethic | Superior Service

  • James Castro – HUSKY HERO, CMHC – MacDougal/Walker – MH
  • Joaquin Cedeno, Housekeeping
  • Tasha Hamm-Busha, CMHC – Osborn – MH
  • Aaron Greenblatt, IT Customer Support Service
  • Marsha Krolikowski, UMG – Internal Medicine/Canton
  • Jessica Loss, CMHC – York – MH
  • Lindsay Osborne, UMG – IMA/Southington
  • Dr. Lalitha Pieri, CMHC – Garner – MH
  • Dr. Benjamin Ristau, General Surgery
  • Wendy Thibodeau, Neag Cancer Center Unit
  • Kathleen Thomas, Prosthodontics and Operative Dental
  • Eric Watts, CMHC – MacDougal/Walker – MH
  • Melissa Winiarz, CMHC – Willard/Cybuski – MH

Congratulations to all!

Festival of Trees and Winter Faire

Kick off the holiday season by attending the Festival of Trees and Winter Faire, Nov. 28 to Dec. 1, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., University Tower Main level. Hosted by the UConn Health Auxiliary, the event serves as its main fundraiser with proceeds to benefit the UConn Health Patient Assistance Fund.

The Festival replaces the Auxiliary’s longstanding holiday bazaar. “Although the bazaar has always been well attended, we felt it was time to try something different and start a new tradition,” say Auxiliary Facilitator Irene Engel.

The event will incorporate some of the elements of the Holiday Bazaar. Instead of offering one day of shopping, the Festival will feature a variety of different local craftsman each day giving individuals more opportunities to shop and attend the event.

Also returning are the holiday baskets donated by the UConn Health community. “The holiday basket drawing is a fan favorite and every year departments are very generous in their donations,” adds Engel.

A sparkling display of trees decorated by Auxiliary members and UConn staff, students, and volunteers will be the main feature of the Festival. “This is a fun way for departments to get into the holiday spirit and show off their creativity,” says event co-chair Chris Kaminski. “Best of all, every beautifully decorated tree will go home with a lucky winner through the Festival of Trees and Winter Faire drawing,” adds Kaminski.

“As in past years, we hope the UConn Health community will support us by decorating and donating a tree and/or holiday basket and by attending the event,” says Engel.

Interested in decorating a tree or donating a holiday basket? Visit the Auxiliary website for tree decorating guidelines and registration information.