Successful Surge Drill for ED

December 1, 2016

  • UConn Health employees participate in a surge drill in the emergency department at UConn John Dempsey Hospital Nov. 29, 2016.
UConn John Dempsey Hospital successfully conducted a realistic drill assessing its emergency preparedness and communications in the case of an external disaster, a Code Yellow, on Nov. 29. The 9 a.m. drill’s mock scenario tested the hospital’s response to a surge of 18 patients arriving to its Emergency Department after a multiple trauma bus accident occurred on I-84. The hospital’s emergency response was immediate with swift communication and activation of the Hospital Incident Command Center led by Nursing Director, Caryl Ryan. As Incident Commander, Ryan directed the team’s real-time response and communications of all personnel, hospital units, phone, and Everbridge System alerts via phone messages, emails and text alerts. UConn Health thanks the ED, Command Center, Fire Department and EMS, doctors, nurses and staff, including employees who played injured patients, for their drill participation and quick responsive actions in the role-play to help uncover any improvements necessary to put in place for a future, real-life situation.

Lakeesha Brown: 2016 Dr. Deckers Award Honoree

  • The Dr. Peter J. Deckers Employee Appreciation Award finalists from left, Lakeesha Brown, Elizabeth Cwalinski, Ursula Knight, and Carol Schramm. (Photo by Tina Encarnacion)
It’s among the highest honors a UConn Health employee can receive – the Dr. Peter J. Deckers Employee Appreciation Award. Who qualifies as a Deckers Award nominee? An employee who consistently demonstrates passion and commitment, strong leadership, exemplary professional skills, and goes above and beyond to help meet the goals of UConn Health. The award was first presented in 2009 and is named after Dr. Peter Deckers, retired executive vice president for health affairs and dean emeritus of the UConn School of Medicine.

This year’s honoree is Lakeesha Brown, principal labor relations specialist in the Department of Human Resources. Christine Cieplinski, director of labor relations, nominated Lakeesha saying “she sees every work day as an opportunity to positively invest employees in the mission and vision of UConn Health.” Hear what else Christine said about Lakeesha.

The three other finalists for the Deckers Award were:

Elizabeth Cwalinski, Housekeeping Supervisor (Nominated by Cliff Ashton, AVP Facilities Management and Operations)

Ursula Knight, CMHC Nursing Supervisor (Nominated by Connie Weiskopf, Director of Nursing and Patient Care Services, CMHC)

Carol Schramm, Registered Nurse (Nominated by Dr. Thomas Yasuda, Medical Director, Operating Room)

The Deckers Awards and the annual celebration of employee years of service were held Nov. 21 in the Academic Rotunda during a high-energy ceremony emceed by Alexis Crean, organization and staff development specialist in the Department of Human Resources.

Anne Horbatuck Named VP of Ambulatory Services

November 30, 2016

Anne Horbatuck
Anne Horbatuck

After nearly a year in an interim role, Anne Horbatuck has been named Vice President, Ambulatory Services. In this role she has responsibilities for ambulatory practices with both UConn Medical Group and UConn John Dempsey Hospital. In over thirty years with UConn Health, Anne has held a number of roles including as Chief Operating Officer of the Musculoskeletal Institute, Director of Signature Programs, and as a nursing director, manager and service line leader.

“Removing Anne’s interim designation is well deserved,” said Dr. Andy Agwunobi, CEO of UConn Health and EVP for Health Affairs. “She has shown passion for her work, dedication to the organization and a commitment to making UMG a top tier patient service organization.”

“I am excited to have such a significant opportunity to impact the future of UConn Health,” said Horbatuck. “I love the potential we have and look forward to working with people in all roles of ambulatory operations to create a great patient experience that contributes to the overall success of UConn Health”.

 

UConn Health Providers Continue ‘Our Hearts to Your Soles’ Tradition

November 23, 2016

  • Medical assistants Doreen Smith (left) and Lori Engengrro are among the local foot care providers who regularly volunteer at the annual Our Hearts to Your Soles event at the Salvation Army shelter in New Britain. (Photo by Michael Aronow)
Tuesday night in New Britain, a group of local foot care providers, including medical assistants Lori Engengrro and Doreen Smith from the UConn Musculoskeletal Institute, volunteered at the Friendship Service Center and the Salvation Army shelter to offer free foot health screenings as well as new pairs of shoes (or boots) and socks. About 40 people left with new, proper-fitting footwear, and another 50 pairs were left behind for others who may be in need. The shoes and boots were provided by Red Wing Shoes.

Our Hearts to Your Soles is an annual holiday-time campaign to provide shoes and foot care at homeless shelters and other service centers across the country. Dr. Michael Aronow, formerly of UConn Health and now in private practice, began UConn Health’s involvement in 2007 and has been the local organizer each year since.

UConn Health December 2016 Programs, Events

November 18, 2016

DEC2016Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for December 2016 and early January 2017. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes. (Last updated 12/14)

Holiday Bazaar and Basket Raffle
Friday, Dec. 2, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., UConn Health, rear of the cafeteria
The UConn Health Auxiliary’s annual winter holiday shopping event includes 20 vendors and the Auxiliary’s popular raffle of gift baskets created and donated by UConn Health employees, as well as a new vendors’ basket. Note the new location this year, as the main lobby is under construction. Drawing is at 3:30. For more information please call 860-679-2963.

Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, Dec. 3, 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.

(Canceled 11/22)
Childbirth Preparation Class
Saturday, Dec. 10, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
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.

Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, Dec. 10, 2 p.m., UConn Health, Main Lobby
A representative will guide you through labor and delivery, postpartum, and the nursery at John Dempsey Hospital. Children and grandparents are welcome. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

(Location updated 12/14)
Living With Heart Disease Support Group
Thursday, Dec. 15, 11 a.m. to noon, UConn Health, Katz Conference Room (C2116) University Tower, 2nd floor conference room
Patients with heart disease, along with their families and caregivers, meet on the third Thursday of the month to discuss post-diagnosis topics such as prevention and wellness, social and emotional support, heath-healthy recipes, and coping strategies and resources. Call 860-679-3633 to learn more.

Infertility Peer Support Group
Thursday, Dec. 15, 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, Dec. 19, 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. Fee is $20. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 to register or for more information.

Free Cosmetology Services for Cancer Survivors
Monday, Dec. 19, 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 offer self-help instruction and education on hairstyling and coping with hair loss, skin care, makeup and nail care. Wigs, turbans and scarves will also be discussed. Classes are offered every other month and are not limited to UConn Health patients. Registration is required: call 800-227-2345 with your name, program date, phone number, and skin color. Kits are available in Light, Medium, Dark and Extra Dark.

Breast-feeding Class
Wednesday, Dec. 21, 7 to 9 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
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.

Stroke Survivor Group
Wednesday, Dec. 28, 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.

(Added 11/22)
Childbirth Preparation Class
Saturday, Jan. 7, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
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.

Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, Jan. 7, 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.

Breast-feeding Class
Wednesday, Jan. 11, 7 to 9 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
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.

UConn Health Configuring Its New EMR System

November 17, 2016

Roberta Luby and Dean Moroniti from UConn Health's HealthONE team (Photo by Chris DeFrancesco)
Roberta Luby and Dean Moroniti from UConn Health’s HealthONE team (Photo by Chris DeFrancesco)

In less than a year and a half, UConn Health will be using a new integrated electronic medical records system that will enable patient information to seamlessly and securely follow patients wherever they go, both within and outside of UConn Health.

Informally known as “Epic,” which is the name of the vendor, UConn Health has adopted the name “HealthONE” for this suite of applications designed to make the delivery of health care safer and more efficient.

A team of 100 specially trained employees and consultants has been working on the intricate 23-month undertaking to program HealthONE for UConn Health since May. The project is in the “adoption and build” phase, which is nearing the end of its second wave next month. Here is where a lot of the configuration takes place.

“In the scheduled Dec. 13 through 15 Adoption 2 session, we will be pulling in managers and subject matter experts from across the clinical and financial organizations to look at the dashboards that will help them manage our patient care, quality measures, and financial results,” says Roberta Luby, assistant vice president for HealthONE. “We will also discuss the reports that will be available out of the system, and determine which reports they are going to need to manage their day when we go live.”

UConn Health One badgeFor example, a dashboard tool could aggregate data on admitted patients that today may take several hours a day to identify and analyze. The time saved then can be spent on caring for patients, ensuring safety and improving outcomes.

“We’re going to show them what that dashboard might look like, where that information might show up, and what quality measures are available, and let them decide what kind of data they need to see, how often, and when,” Luby says.

Major milestones achieved to date include completion of the direction phase, where current and potential future workflows were reviewed, and the certification of 80 members of the HealthONE team.

Next after the adoption and building phase is the testing phase, an eight-month period starting next May that involves running thousands of scenarios to make sure the system is designed and operating as intended. During that time, a team of trainers also will be working to prepare the training materials and plan the training logistics.

The timeline calls for end-user training to start in early 2018, two-to-three-months before HealthONE goes live in April 2018.

“This system will establish one patient record whether the individual is coming to the ED, an outpatient clinic, or has an admission in the hospital,” Luby says. “It’s going to allow us to see everything that occurred on that patient and have one view into his or her allergies, medications, procedures and immunizations, allowing safe, efficient care regardless of where that patient is in our care environment.”

HealthONE also will allow the exchange of patient information with other EMR, enabling UConn Health to send and receive data from other hospitals and practices that may be using a different system.

“We’ll be able to assemble all the data needed for a patient to enable a provider to care for that patient safely,” Luby says.

 

PAWS Awards for November

Human Resources has announced the PAWS award recipients for November.

In case you’ve forgotten, PAWS stands for:  Part of a team | Awesome attitude | Wonderful work ethic | Superior service

The following employees consistently perform above and beyond the expectations of their job.

Lisa Bartis………………………………………………….Volunteer Services

Mary Ann Caron………………………………………..UMG – Nephrology

Gladys Diaz……………………………………………….Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center

Dorothy Linnhoff……………………………………….Graduate Office

Velma Martinez…………………………………………Radiology

Lea Pannella……………………………………………..CMHC – MacDougal/Walker

Lisa Pepin…………………………………………………Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center

Carly Rivera………………………………………………Cardiology

Team – COAs of 3 East

Donna Cordeira…………………………………………UMG – General Neurology

Desiree Doty……………………………………………..UMG – Nephrology

Yahaira Serrano Felix……………………………….Rehabilitation Services – Outpatient

 

  • November 2016 PAWS Awards

Honoring Our Heroes

November 10, 2016

  • Veteran's Day Ceremony, November 10, 2016

UConn Health held a Veteran’s Day Observance today to thank and honor all of those who served or currently serve in the military. The ceremony included the UConn Health Fire and Police Color Guard, third-year dental student Dianne Gan sang the National Anthem, and Alison Valone Suhocki with the Student Services Center thanked the veterans for their dedication and service. Photos by Janine Gelineau.

Looking at Us: Mark Koziol, Maintenance/Grounds Crew

Mark Koziol, maintenance employee, doing leaf clean-up in the center courtyard of the main building at UConn Health. (Photo by Janine Gelineau)
Mark Koziol, maintenance employee, doing leaf clean-up in the center courtyard of the main building at UConn Health. (Photo by Janine Gelineau)

Mark Koziol, 33-years old from Plainville, works on the grounds crew in the Maintenance Dept. He’s worked at UConn Health for 13 years, he’s married and the father of an 8-month old girl. This time of year, Mark and his fellow grounds crew workers are extremely busy with – you guessed it – cleaning up leaves. It’s an extremely time-consuming job considering the size of our campus which stretches 209 acres and includes our Munson Road, 195 and 400 Farmington Avenue locations. That’s a whole lot of leaves to get rid of.

Q: Other than leaf clean-up – what are some of your other job responsibilities?
A: It really depends on the time of year. We do landscape maintenance so in the spring and summer we’re mowing, tree and hedge trimming, mulching, planting flowers, and cutting the ivy – that needs to be done several times a year.

This time of year, it’s cleaning up the leaves and cutting down the day lilies and ornamental grasses. Then when winter comes – it’s a whole another story.  We have to remove the snow and spread salt on all the sidewalks, parking lots and roads here on campus and our nearby locations.  We also have to clear the snow from the garages, otherwise it’s too much weight. We plow the snow and then we find a designated safe place to dump it off the garage. That takes a long time.

I typically start my day at 6 a.m. but if we get a major snow storm we come in when we’re needed and work around the clock until all the snow is cleared. We stay overnight here if it’s necessary. Our department has couches or we sleep in our trucks. Depending on the storm, we can end up being here for a few days. Last year we were lucky so this year we’ll see what happens.

And then throughout the year, we’re in charge of the litter pick-up.

Who is your favorite actor? Robert De Niro

What’s your favorite junk food? Pizza

What’s your favorite sports team? Red Sox

What is your favorite holiday? Christmas

If you could meet someone “famous” who would you most like to meet? “Big Papi” David Ortiz

Q: Is littering a big problem on campus?
A:  Usually it’s the patients who are messy.  The employees really are not that bad.

Q: What job do you like the best?
A: Well, fall is my favorite time of year and I never seem to get tired of leaf blowing.

Q:  Overall, why do you like working here?
A: I enjoy working in this field and being outside. The people are nice, too.  I’ve met lots of nice people through the years.

I also like the variety.  Every season brings something different.  And this campus has changed tremendously since I started back in 2003. When I started, there was no MARB or Outpatient Pavilion. There was a greenhouse there. I remember the Butler buildings and Dowling North and South. The campus has really expanded for the better but then again, it also means we have a lot more work than we used to.

Popular Tennis Tournament Benefits Cancer Fund

November 9, 2016

From left, David Marshall, General Manager/Director of Tennis at Farmington Field Club, Jennifer Grey and Aaron Frankel with the UConn Foundation. (Photo by Janine Gelineau/UConn Health)
From left, David Marshall, General Manager/Director of Tennis at Farmington Field Club, Jennifer Grey and Aaron Frankel with the UConn Foundation. (Photo by Janine Gelineau/UConn Health)

The Farmington Field Club (FFC) Children’s Classic Tennis Tournament completed its 33rd year of activities this summer. The FFC Tournament, the second longest running U.S. Tennis Association New England Tournament was held over two weekends in July (Adult Tournament July 9-10 and the Junior Tournament July 16-17) and raised more than $11,000 for the UConn Children’s Cancer Fund. This year’s tournament had more than 100 player participants over the two weekends and was viewed by several hundred spectators.

The proceeds from the event, primarily derived from the financial support and sponsorships of many local corporations and companies and individual contributions, helps advance UConn’s research into the diagnosis, treatment and eventual prevention of children’s cancer. To date, the fund raising efforts of FFC has contributed more than $365,000 to the Farmington Field Club’s Endowment for UConn Children’s Cancer Program.

The Farmington Field Club, a private membership tennis, swimming and paddle tennis club, encourages and welcomes tax deductible donations to this worthwhile cause. Donations may be sent to:

The Farmington Field Club Endowment for UConn Children’s Cancer
UConn Foundation, Inc.
P.O. 4032
Farmington, CT  06034