Fall Festival 2016 Photo Gallery

October 7, 2016

  • Photos from the Fall Festival on Oct. 6, 2016 (Janine Gelineau/UConn Health Photo)

The fall festival features favorite autumn eats and the annual Pumpkin Palooza decorating contest. Photos by Janine Gelineau.

Congratulations to our Pumpkin Palooza winners!

1st place

Department of Immunology — “Be Wise and Immunize”

Deborah Daversa, Sally Hatzenbuhler, Karen Morris, and Kimberly Young

2nd place

Health Marketing and Communications — “Emoji-Palooza”

Tina Encarnacion, Sheryl Rosen, and Kristin Wallace

3rd place

The Graduate Office — “Coffee and Donuts”

Carrie Berlepsch, Tracy Dieli, Barbara Kream, Dorothy Linnhoff, Lynn Puddington, and Stephanie Rauch

 

Interprofessional Education for 450 UConn Health Professions Students

October 6, 2016

  • Second annual Interprofessional Education Dean's Afternoon, Sept. 30, 2016, at UConn Health. (Photos by Janine Gelineau)
    Second annual Interprofessional Education Dean's Afternoon, Sept. 30, 2016, at UConn Health. (Photos by Janine Gelineau)
UConn held its second annual Interprofessional Education Dean’s Afternoon Sept. 30, part of its continuing educational mission to emphasize the importance of collaboration among health care providers.

The idea behind interprofessional education is to engage students from all health professions and better position them to work together in the future.

“We are noticing more frequently that physicians, pharmacists, nurses, social workers, physical therapists, and others are working collaboratively to provide patient care,” says UConn M.D./MPH candidate Fludiona Naka. “We are moving away from the outmoded structures that used to be predominant because we have recognized that in order to provide the best care to the patient we need to work together. This is what some call a team-approach or a term that I like even better, a patient-centered approach.”

The dean’s afternoon drew approximately 450 students and 40 faculty and staff to concurrent events in Storrs and Farmington, and included the schools of Medicine, Dental Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, Social Work, and Dietetics.

“Our students will be entering a very different world as they start practice in 5-10 years,” says Dr. Bruce Gould, associate dean for primary care in the UConn School of Medicine. “We will have transformed our fee-for-service, physician-centric model to one of interprofessional team-based practice caring for populations of patients. Dean’s Afternoon and our other interprofessional curricula and programs are training our students for the future reality they will face.”

Learning objectives included:

  • Identifying the interdependence between health professions’ education
  • Competency development for collaborative practice and practice needs
  • Identifying the educational pathways and scope of practice for health professions
  • How to engage students in the process of interprofessional collaboration

“Learning about interprofessional collaboration beginning at the outset of their professional education is crucial for students because we learn to appreciate and value other professions and what they have to offer,” Naka says. “I firmly believe that interprofessional education will transform health education and thus lead to transformation of health care delivery.”

Employee Engagement Survey Results

Engagement survey thank you

Results shared at Tuesday’s Town Hall provide insight and baseline data into our level of workforce commitment, also known as engagement. A raw engagement score of 3.67 looks great to those of us who grew up in a graded world but in this case, it’s not a B+. Our results place us in the lowest 10 percent of similar organizations for overall engagement.

Nearly 50 percent of all employees took the survey, adding over 2,000 open ended comments that all together provide measurement and context to the often elusive world of organizational culture. Sure, anyone can differ in how connected we feel to our workplace, any day, even hour-by-hour, but overall this tells us some really important things about ourselves.

With more detail available by using this link on UConn Health Express, and to be shared by your leaders in the coming days, the infographic shows a lot about the general sentiment of the organization. Thanks to everyone who took the time to complete the survey. We will do this again in spring 2017 and we hope that more than 60 percent of you participate, express your opinion, and offer feedback as we strive toward building a culture worthy of our name and our mission.

 

Parking Areas Temporarily Closing for Repaving

 

Lots D and K
(Click image for larger view)

In the coming weeks, Lot D will be closed for repaving for approximately 10 days. Lot D is the parking area that runs along West Road from the academic driveway to the West Dock, with access only from the academic driveway (see map). This paving project will take approximately 170 spaces offline. The following is from the Department of Parking, Transportation, and Event Services:

We have taken some steps to try to minimize this temporary inconvenience. To provide adequate parking and minimize the impacts on the campus-wide community, especially our patients and visitors, we recommend that those who are displaced from the academic lots use the following alternative parking areas:

  • Garage 3 – Levels 1 and 2, via the East Road entrance (Area 1). A ‘Garage Full’ sign will be deployed when the garage reaches capacity.
  • Garage 1 – Level 4, via the Level 6 entrance (Area 1). A ‘Garage Full’ sign will be deployed when the garage reaches capacity.
  • Cell and Genome Science Building (400 Farmington Ave.) – Area 1 or Area 3 spaces. A new direct shuttle service will run between CGSB and the academic entrance from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

After Lot D reopens, Lot K will be closed for repaving for approximately 7 days. Lot K is the parking area that is on the opposite side of the academic driveway and runs along West Road almost to the turnoff to Munson Road (see map).

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we continue our work to improve the grounds of the UConn Health campus.

Pediatrics is Joining Connecticut Children’s

September 29, 2016

Dr. Larry Scherzer
Dr. Larry Scherzer

In just a couple of days, our pediatric practice at UConn Health will transition to Connecticut Children’s Medical Center.  There are a lot of benefits to this including greater coordination between our primary care and specialty physicians at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center which will result in superior care for our patients.

Although the practice is changing ‘affiliations’, we (the physicians) are not changing, nor are our office locations. We remain at 800 Connecticut Boulevard, East Hartford and 65 Kane Street, West Hartford.   Importantly, we will remain on the staff of UConn John Dempsey Hospital and continue to provide all of clinical services at the Well Baby Nursery.  We will also continue to serve as teachers to our medical students and residents and to serve as full-time members of the Department of Pediatrics.

Our phone number will change. To reach pediatrics after October 1, to establish care or make an appointment, call us at 860-837-7250.

Primary care pediatrics has been a part of UConn Health from its beginning, and the pediatricians wish to thank the UConn Health community for its support over the years.  We look forward to continuing to serve our community and to enjoy many future collaborations under our new hospital affiliation.

Larry Scherzer, MD, MPH

Successful Survivors Day at UConn Health

September 28, 2016

  • From left, Dr. Susan Tannenbaum, division chief of hematology oncology at the Neag Cancer Center, and Abigail O'Brien, senior director of development at the UConn Foundation and breast cancer survivor, spoke during the event.
    From left, Dr. Susan Tannenbaum, division chief of hematology oncology, and Abigail O'Brien, senior director of development at the UConn Foundation and breast cancer survivor, spoke during the event.
The 19th annual Survivors Day event was held Sunday, Sept. 18 in the new Academic Rotunda at UConn Health. Abigail O’Brien, senior director of development for the UConn Foundation and a breast cancer survivor, kicked off the morning by inspiring guests to celebrate and “live life like you’re dying.”  She introduced Dr. Susan Tannenbaum, division chief of hematology oncology in the Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Tannenbaum reminded the audience to reflect on not only the patients as survivors but the caregivers as survivors who are strong and resilient and are in the fight together with patients. Close to 200 survivors with their caregivers, family, faculty and support staff enjoyed brunch before creating beautiful drawings of a butterfly – a symbol of endurance, change, hope and life. The art piece was made possible by CT Art School in South Windsor, which had six instructors on staff to help narrate and assist with the drawing. Attendees also got a chance to paint portions of a mural that will later be displayed in the cancer center.  The event ended with nearly each survivor receiving a basket or gift card compliments of the generous UConn community.

 

UConn Students, Residents, Faculty Serve at Free Dental Clinic

September 22, 2016

  • UConn dental student Daniel Lee cares for a patient at the 2016 Mission of Mercy. (Photo by Lauren Dulieu)

Seven residents, 77 students and four faculty from the UConn School of Dental Medicine were among the hundreds of volunteers who provided care to nearly 2,000 patients last weekend.

The 2016 Connecticut Mission of Mercy free dental clinic was held at the XL Center in Hartford. Dental professionals from throughout Connecticut give their time to care for the underserved.

UConn’s dental student breakdown:

  • 19 fourth-year students
  • 38 third-years
  • 23 second-years
  • 7 first-years

 

 

 

 

UConn Health October 2016 Programs, Events

September 15, 2016

OCT2016Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for October and early November 2016. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes. (Last update 10/24)

Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, Oct. 1, 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.

UConn Health Auxiliary Fashion Show
Thursday, Oct. 6, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Lord & Taylor, Westfarms
The UConn Health Auxiliary is holding a fashion show to benefit its charitable programs. VIP admission is $25 and includes a wine tasting, light refreshments, swag bag, Lord & Taylor charity discount ticket, and prize drawing. Call 860-679-2963 for more details. More information about the Auxiliary is available at health.uconn.edu/auxiliary/.

Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, Oct. 8, 2:30 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.

Celiac Disease Nutrition Class
Monday, Oct. 17, 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, Oct. 17, 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, Oct. 19, 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.

Living With Heart Disease Support Group
Thursday, Oct. 20, 11 a.m. to noon, UConn Health, Katz Conference Room (C2116)
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, Oct. 20, 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.

Childbirth Preparation Class
Saturday, Oct. 22, 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.

Stroke Survivor Group
Wednesday, Oct. 26, 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.

(Event canceled 10/24)
UConn Health Auxiliary Art and Wine Night
Wednesday, Oct. 26, 5 to 9 p.m., UConn Health, Rear of cafeteria
Join the UConn Health Auxiliary for an evening of painting, wine, and snacks, and bring home a work of art done by you! Tickets are available at the Connucopia Gift Shop in the UConn Health University Tower mezzanine, $35 for Auxiliary members and $40 for nonmembers. Proceeds to go toward Auxiliary programs. Call 860-679-2963 for more details. More information about the Auxiliary is available at health.uconn.edu/auxiliary/.

(Time updated 10/13)
Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, Oct. 29, 2:30 p.m. 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.

Free Discovery Series: “Redefining the Well Woman Exam”
Thursday, Nov. 3, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Cell and Genome Sciences Building, 400 Farmington Ave.
Dr. Christopher Morosky, UConn Health obstetrician and gynecologist, will discuss topics including birth control, hormone replacement therapy, the HPV vaccine, mammograms, and changes in guidelines for women’s screenings, plus take your questions. Register online, for free, at bit.ly/UCHdisc or call 800-535-6232.

Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, Nov. 5, 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, Nov. 9, 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.

New UConn Health ID Badges for Everyone

September 1, 2016

In keeping with the new branding for UConn Health, the UConn Health Police Department will issue new ID badges to all employees who still possess a UConn Health ID badge with a blue background and the former UConn Health logo.  The new ID badge will include your name, department of assignment and a maximum of two credentials.  The expiration date listed on your current ID badge will not change unless your current ID badge is due to expire in 2016.  New ID badges for employees will be issued as follows:

Birthdate         Badge Issuance Month
January, February, and March September 2016
April, May and June October 2016
July, August and September November 2016
October, November and December December 2016

You must report in person to the UConn Health Police Administration window to obtain a new ID badge. You must also return your old ID badge or pay a $15.00 fee prior to being issued a new ID badge (cash, checks and credit cards are accepted). The old ID badge will immediately be deactivated when the new ID Badge is issued.

Our hours of operation for the issuance of ID badges are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6 to 10:30 am and 1:30 to 3:30 pm.

Volunteers Guide Patients, Visitors Through Lobby Renovation

August 25, 2016

george_ziewacz_withvolunteer_no-releaseneeded_8-23-16_jgelineau_5598

You walk through a door that you’ve entered many times… only to be greeted by a giant wall instead of the lobby that had been the familiar path to your appointment.

For many patients and visitors, that’s what it’s been like these past few weeks since UConn Health’s main lobby closed for renovations. While they are greeted by the wall, fortunately for them they also are greeted by some helpful folks in blue jackets – UConn Health volunteers, at the ready to help people where they need to go.

“They’re shocked, they don’t even know if they’re in the right place or not, because it looks completely different than what they’re used to,” says volunteer George Ziewacz, who’s been volunteering in the main lobby area for more than eight years. “We have a diagram on our wall and we show them how to get to wherever they want to get.”

With the lobby closed, patients and visitors using the main entrance must take a detour to get to the elevators that bring them to the Connecticut Tower hospital floors, the Calhoun Cardiology Center on the second floor, and even the gift shop, which is accessible only from the hallway that runs along the Center Courtyard window. Some of the dental clinics have moved to the main floor, while others remain on the first floor and are still accessible via the elevator near the main entrance.

“Most people are understanding. Only very rarely does someone get real upset,” says Ziewacz, who volunteers eight hours a day, four days a week. “Some of them want to give me tips, but I tell them I’m not allowed to accept tips.”

When patients and visitors know where they’re going but don’t know how to get there, the volunteers will help them find their destination on a map, direct them on how to get there, and in some cases escort them some or all of the way as needed. When patients don’t know where their appointment is, the volunteers can retrieve the information by calling the information desk in the University Tower lobby.

“George and his knowledge of all areas along with his wayfinding skills have been instrumental in helping everyone navigate through the Main Lobby construction detour,” says Lisa Bartis, volunteer administration program coordinator. “The entire Volunteer Department has stepped up to help with wayfinding for all of our patients, families and visitors at both entrances.”

While wayfinding has been a major task for volunteers, they also assist with discharges, wheelchairs, mail and gift delivery, office work, the gift and thrift shops, new admission binders, and periodic checks of patient safety equipment and accessories such as lifts, slings and belts.

UConn Health has 280 registered volunteers, 90 of whom are returning to high school or college for the fall. More information about becoming a UConn Health volunteer is available at health.uconn.edu/donors-and-volunteers.