‘HealthONE In the Know’: Patient Portal

November 9, 2017

HealthONE: What’s in It for the Patient?

Dr. Rebecca Andrews tackles this question in the latest “HealthONE In the Know” video.

https://youtu.be/egsp6L-Vudo

Looking at Us: Dr. Bradford Whitcomb

Dr. Bradford Whitcomb

Looking at Us: Army Veteran Dr. Bradford Whitcomb, Lieutenant Colonel, Retired, Gynecologic Oncologist at UConn Health, discusses what Veterans Day means to him.

When did you serve and in what branch of the service?
I served in the Army Medical Department for more than 25 years. I deployed in 2008 to Baghdad for three months and I deployed in 2012 and 2013 to Afghanistan for seven months. The first time was as an assistant to a surgical team and an Ob/Gyn. And in the second deployment I was part of a combat research team in Afghanistan and also served as the regional Ob/Gyn consultant.

Why did you want to serve in the Army?
Patriotic reasons, of course, but it was also a conduit for me to attend medical school and college. I was on scholarship through the ROTC and I went to medical school at the  military medical school in Bethesda, Maryland (USUHS).

What did you get out of serving?
It was very humbling to take care of not only people who were injured or sick while I was deployed but also to take care of active duty service members, dependents and retirees and family members of retirees when I was back at home.

What does Veterans Day mean to you?
I think of my dad who served during the Korean War. I also think of the people who were more in harm’s way than I was in those deployed settings, and who are currently there away from their families which is one of the hardest things. I think of the families because it was very difficult on my family for one of us to be away. I think it was actually harder on my spouse than it was on me to take care of the kids and to have many responsibilities at home by herself. I think about those who are gone now and who will continue to go. They enjoy their job, dedicated, but leave behind a family that sometimes is in a very challenging situation.

Do you think veterans receive enough recognition and appreciation?
I think it has been very positive overall since 9/11. I think the population has been very welcoming and very helpful. However, as time has gone on in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Middle East, I think people have become less attuned to it because it is a chronic problem. . I worry that we may not pay as much attention as we did right after 9/11. It’s horrible that something bad had to happen for veterans to get more recognition , but we need to keep these heroes on our minds. We need to remember that people go away for a long time to serve their country and they’re away from their families, which is extremely difficult.

‘HealthONE In the Know’: Scope of Project

November 2, 2017

HealthONE: What Is the Magnitude of This Project?

Dr. Dirk Stanley, UConn Health chief information officer, addresses this in the first installment of the “HealthONE In the Know” video series.

https://youtu.be/kYPYOZVtyb8

Husky Heroes Help ‘Making Strides’ a Success

A little rain did not deter more than 3000 participants from helping to save lives and celebrate survivors at the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides event last Sunday in Hartford’s Bushnell Park. The UConn Health Husky Heroes exceeded their fundraising goal with $1780 raised and were ranked 20th out of 368 teams. In addition, they successfully hosted breast cancer survivors and their caregivers at the (dry!) Survivors and Caregivers Area tent.

 

 

Exclusive Preview of UConn HealthONE

November 1, 2017

UConn HealthONE Workflow Walkthrough Schedule for Nov. 9 (Click image for larger view)

The hypothetical story of a marathon runner named Honey Bewell will illustrate the different processes of a patient encounter using UConn HealthONE, the new electronic medical record system UConn Health is introducing in the spring.

The role-play scenario, titled “Marathon Misadventures,” is the main event that precedes a series of breakout sessions on Thursday, Nov. 9, collectively known as the Workflow Walkthrough.

In the light-hearted portrayal, happening in the Massey Auditorium at 9:15 a.m. and then again at noon, Bewell shows up at the UConn Health Emergency Department complaining of abdominal pain after completing the Hartford Marathon. Her medical history already is in HealthONE and immediately available to the triage nurse. Subsequent providers can easily review a consolidated patient history as well as the new details from this visit.

“It’s meant to be fun. It’s silly on purpose,” says Stephanie Vospette, a consultant on the HealthONE project. “We’re portraying what a patient might experience here at UConn Health, and we encourage people to come and see it.”

The intended audience includes management team members, physicians, nurses, technicians, subject matter experts, and various HealthONE team leaders.

“This is a consolidated demonstration of Epic that reflects what we’re building for UConn Health,” Vospette says. “It’s really an opportunity to see what work’s been done with HealthONE, a high-level view offering another look at the system, with the intention of increasing engagement and even generating some excitement.”

Epic is the vendor providing the software platform on which UConn HealthONE will run.

“Marathon Misadventures” also will demonstrate the involvement of HealthONE throughout different phases of care, including a follow-up visit. The breakout sessions, which include smaller-group demonstrations and open houses, start at noon.

“The team is really excited to be showing the UConn Health version of Epic to those who will actually use the system,” says Christopher Carroll, the HealthONE project’s director of ancillary applications.

To date, all of the HealthONE module teams have been working with their specific departments, but the role-play sessions show the integrated solution and data sharing that will be live on April 28.

Anyone who has the opportunity to attend and wants to learn more about how UConn HealthONE will work—or what becomes of Honey Bewell—is welcome to attend.

Watch for additional HealthONE updates in Lifeline, in the Pulse, at uconnhealthexpress.uchc.edu/emr, and now on Twitter @UConnHealthONE.

Within One Week From Wellness Center

October 26, 2017

It’s almost here! The Wellness Center opens Wednesday, Nov. 1, but you can come for a sneak peak Friday, Oct. 27, between 1 and 6 p.m. Membership fees for faculty and staff are $15 a month, through payroll deduction, with terms of six months and 12 months available. Student membership is included in student fees. The hours of operation will be 24-7 with badge access. Students will have priority access to equipment weekdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Classes held in the exercise rooms will be open to members and nonmembers and may have additional fees. See the Wellness Center Forms page on the Student Services website for the membership guidelines, registration form, waiver and liability form.

UConn Health November 2017 Programs, Events

October 20, 2017

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

Breast-feeding Class
Wednesday, Nov. 1, 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. (Last updated 10/25)

UConn Health Epilepsy Support Group
Wednesday, Nov. 1, 6:30 to 8 p.m.
, UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd Floor, Large Conference Room S2010

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, Nov. 4, noon to 1:30 p.m.
, UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd Floor, Large Conference Room S2010

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, Nov. 4, 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.

Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, Nov. 11, 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.

Childbirth Preparation Class
Wednesday, Nov. 15, 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.

Living With Heart Disease Meeting
Thursday, Nov. 16, 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. Please call Sue at 860-679-3633 for more information.

Breast Cancer Support Group
Thursday, Nov. 16, 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, Nov. 16, 7 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.

Celiac Disease Nutrition Class
Monday, Nov. 20, 8 to 9 a.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion
A registered dietitian leads a discussion for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. This program now is scheduled to meet the third Monday of the month. A physician’s referral is required. Fee is $20. Call 860-679-3245 more information.

(Canceled 10/25)
Stroke Survivor Group
Wednesday, Nov. 22, 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.

Free Workshop: “Things to Consider Before Joining a Research Study”
Monday, Nov. 27, 5 p.m.
, UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room

The UConn Health Human Subjects Protection Office offers an educational session about the rights and responsibilities of participants in research projects on the last Monday of the month. Registration is required: 860-679-8802 or cagganello@uchc.edu.

Living Well With Epilepsy: A Support Group for Young Adults
Saturday, Dec. 2, noon to 1:30 p.m.
, UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd Floor, Large Conference Room S2010
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, 2nd Floor, Large Conference Room S2010
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.

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

MacNeil Stepping Down as Dental Dean

October 19, 2017

Following is an announcement from interim Provost Jeremy Teitelbaum:

Dr. Monty MacNeil, dean of the UConn School of Dental Medicine (Photo by Janine Gelineau)

Dean R. “Monty” MacNeil has informed me that he will step down from his position as Dean of UConn’s School of Dental Medicine on June 30, 2018, after 11 years of service in that role.  Starting July 1, 2018, he will return to research, clinical and educational work as a member of the school’s faculty.

Under his leadership, the School of Dental Medicine reached number 11, rising from 18, in its level of funding from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.  The School received the pre-eminent award for a U.S. or Canadian Dental School for contributions to oral health and dental education, the William J. Gies Award for Achievement in 2016. The school increased the diversity of its student body to levels far above national averages, and, in partnership with the Schools of Medicine and Engineering,  joined in the creation of a new cross-campus Biomedical Engineering Department.

The physical infrastructure of the school has been transformed under Dean MacNeil. The school has seen a new Dental Clinical Research Center; the Grasso Simulation Lab; the  Dental Arts Center;  and the new Orthodontics Center in the Outpatient Pavilion, as well as an expansion and renovation of its research infrastructure, classrooms, student work space, and administrative space. It also extended its community based programs, opening a new Pediatric Dental Clinic in West Hartford and a new practice in Storrs Center.  In early 2019, an extensively renovated and expanded Dental Care Center will be complete, marking an almost entire renewal of the School’s  infrastructure.

Dean MacNeil’s efforts also led to the establishment and growth of the Dental Medicine Alumni Association and to a major growth in philanthropic giving to the school.  His efforts led to the school receiving the single largest gift in its history.  He brought national recognition to the School through professional service and leadership activities, including his current service as Chair of the Board of Directors of the American Dental Education Association.

These contributions to research, education, outreach, and advancement form a truly distinguished record of service.  On behalf of the entire university, and especially the faculty and staff of the School of Dental Medicine, I extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to Dean MacNeil for his efforts over the past decade and, indeed, over the entire period of his career at UConn.

During the next weeks, we will make plans to conduct a search for the School’s next dean with the goal of a smooth transition next summer.

Fall Festival Fun and Photos 2017

Attendance was brisk with an autumn chill in the air as more than 1,000 students, employees and faculty enjoyed Tuesday’s Fall Festival in the Main Building Center Courtyard. The annual event, hosted by Human Resources, served up the traditional fall fare focusing on apples – apple cider, caramel apples, and apple cider donuts. The Pumpkin Palooza decorating contest was back by popular demand with the most entries ever (15). New this year was the Puzzle Mania competition as three teams competed to see who could assemble their UConn Health fall fun puzzle the fastest. Check the photos below to find out who won both competitions.

UConn HealthONE Is on Twitter

October 18, 2017

https://twitter.com/UConnHealthONE/status/918896715742183425

UConn HealthONE has established a Twitter account as another vehicle to inform and engage the hundreds of UConn Health providers and support staff who will be using the electronic medical record system that debuts April 18, 2018.

“As we move closer to go-live, the flow of information is even more crucial,” says Dr. Dirk Stanley, UConn Health chief medical information officer. “We understand that traditional methods of communication like emails and intranet pages may not be ideal for clinical staff we are trying to reach. Twitter gives us another tool to help our users easily find important messages, directly from their phone, tablet, or PC.”

Any UConn HealthONE stakeholder is invited to follow the HealthONE account: twitter.com/uconnhealthone.