Wendy Pasckowski, a housekeeper here for nearly 24 years, went above and beyond the call of duty recently. Her keen observations and quick action helped save a patient’s life. (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health)
Wendy Paszkowski, a housekeeper here for nearly 24 years, went above and beyond the call of duty recently. Her keen observations and quick action helped save a patient’s life.
Anne Niziolek, the nurse manager of Medicine 4, recently shared the story in the hospital newsletter:
“Our unit housekeeper on Med. 4, Wendy Paszkowski, was cleaning a patient’s room. She noticed there was something wrong with the patient and immediately went to get the nurse, who was in another patient’s room. It turned out the patient Wendy observed had blood sugar that was critically low. The patient could have gone in a diabetic coma or worse. Wendy took the appropriate action and knew to “ARCC it up!” She saved the patient! Way to go, Wendy!”
Photographer Janine Gelineau takes the portrait of UConn Health employee Amy Chmielewski during last Friday’s casting call. (Photo by Frank Barton)From left, Frank Barton, Ethan Giorgetti and Carolyn Pennington do a videotaped interview with UConn Health employee Jean Menze. (Photo by Janine Gelineau)
When we posted our casting call announcement a few weeks ago we never expected to see so many talented and dynamic employees on audition day last Friday.
Seventy-five people from all corners of the campus showed up – from nurses in the NICU to IT specialists from Munson. They each had their portrait taken and then “performed” in a short video where they told us what they do and why they like doing it – especially at UConn Health. The heart-felt answers were truly inspiring and the energy and enthusiasm contagious.
Some of these truly talented folks will be chosen as extras for a television commercial being filmed on campus March 9, 10 and 11. Others will be seen on our website, flyers, brochures and promotional/educational videos we produce throughout the year. Thanks again to all those who took time from their busy day to take part. For those who couldn’t make it – we’ll catch you next time!
Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for March and early April 2016. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes. (Updated 3/14)
Free Discovery Series: “New Goals for Treating High Blood Pressure”
Tuesday, March 1, 7 to 9 p.m., UConn Health, Keller Auditorium (This is rescheduled from Feb. 23) Dr. William White, Dr. Meryem Tuncel, Dr. Kai Chen and nurse practitioner Mary Beth Barry will discuss the importance of monitoring your blood pressure, the latest hypertension study on ideal blood pressure levels, and how to prevent complications leading to kidney and heart failure. Register online, for free, at http://discoveryseries.uchc.edu or call 800-535-6232.
Free IVF Information Session Thursday, March 3, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Cell and Genome Sciences Building, 400 Farmington Ave. Specialists with the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services lead an informational session about current treatments for infertility, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF). Each program includes an in-depth explanation of the IVF process, discussion of some of the emotional issues surrounding IVF, and discussion of options for financial planning. Registration is required: 844-467-3483 or www.uconnfertility.com.
Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, March 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.
Free Community Talk: “Knowing What to Eat, Refusing to Swallow It”
Tuesday, March 8, 6 p.m., UConn Health, Low Learning Center The Hartford Nutrition Initiative and primary care nutrition class at UConn Health present Dr. David Katz from the Yale Schools of Medicine and Public Health, a nationally renowned nutrition and preventive medicine expert. Email vwanjeri@uchc.edu for more information.
Nutrition for a Healthy Heart Wednesday, March 9, 2 to 4 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion The UConn Health’s Healthy Nutrition program invites you on a journey to a lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol and healthier weight. (This workshop usually is offered on the first Wednesday of the month.) Registration fee is $30. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, March 12, 2:30 to 3:30 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.
Free Discovery Series: “Colorectal Cancer Prevention: It’s More Than a Colonoscopy”
Tuesday, March 15, 7 to 9 p.m., UConn Health, Keller Auditorium Join Dr. Ethan Bortniker, UConn Health gastroenterologist, for a discussion about colorectal cancer covering risk factors, prevention strategies, and screening options. Register online, for free, at http://discoveryseries.uchc.edu or call 800-535-6232.
(Added 3/4)
Living With Heart Disease Support Group
Thursday, March 17, 11 a.m. to noon, UConn Health, Katz Conference Room (C-2116) 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.
Free IVF Information Session Thursday, March 17, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Cell and Genome Sciences Building, 400 Farmington Ave. Specialists with the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services lead an informational session about current treatments for infertility, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF). Each program includes an in-depth explanation of the IVF process, discussion of some of the emotional issues surrounding IVF, and discussion of options for financial planning. Registration is required: 844-467-3483 or www.uconnfertility.com.
Infertility Peer Support Group
Thursday, March 17, 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, March 21, 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.
Stroke Survivor Group
Wednesday, March 23, 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 Lifestyle Medicine Program: “Managing Diabetes With Lifestyle Changes”
Wednesday, March 23, 7 to 8:30 p.m., UConn Health, Keller Auditorium Join physician assistant Bradley Biskup from UConn Health’s Lifestyle Medicine Program to learn about low glycemic diet, how exercise affects blood sugar, and the connection between stress and diabetes. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
(Corrected 3/8)
Breast-feeding Class Thursday Wednesday, March 23, 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.
Childbirth Preparation Class
Saturday, March 26, 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 Workshop: “Things to Consider Before Joining a Research Study”
Monday, March 28, 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.
(Added 3/4)
New 6-week “Ready to Lose” Weight Management Program Starts
Tuesday, March 29, 5 to 6 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd floor east The introductory session is followed by five weekly sessions through Tuesday, May 3, 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 for more information.
Free IVF Information Session Thursday, March 31, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Cell and Genome Sciences Building, 400 Farmington Ave.
Specialists with the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services lead an informational session about current treatments for infertility, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF). Each program includes an in-depth explanation of the IVF process, discussion of some of the emotional issues surrounding IVF, and discussion of options for financial planning. Registration is required: 844-467-3483 or www.uconnfertility.com.
Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, April 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.
Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, April 2, 2:30 to 3:30 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.
Nutrition for a Healthy Heart Wednesday, April 6, 2 to 4 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion
The UConn Health’s Healthy Nutrition program invites you on a journey to a lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol and healthier weight. (This workshop usually is offered on the first Wednesday of the month.) Registration fee is $30. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
(Added 3/14)
Free Discovery Series: “Listen to Your Voice”
Thursday, April 14, 7 to 9 p.m., UConn Health, Keller Auditorium
Join Dr. Denis Lafreniere, UConn Health otolaryngologist, for a discussion about what causes voice problems, common voice disorders, and ways to keep your voice healthy.Register online, for free, at http://discoveryseries.uchc.edu or call 800-535-6232.
Welcome to the inaugural issue of The Pulse – a weekly newsletter aimed at monitoring the pulse of UConn Health and highlighting what really makes us tick. It’ll be delivered to your inbox every Friday. No, you can’t unsubscribe – and you won’t want to – because this newsletter will focus on news you need to know, events you won’t want to miss, and unique stories that make UConn Health special.
Plus, Dr. Andy will answer your most thought-provoking questions and we’ll get you caught up on UConn Health in the news – stories from newspapers, radio, or TV that you may have missed during your busy week.
This isn’t meant to replace broadcast messages – we want to add to the conversation, not take information away. There’s a lot going on here and we want to cut through the clutter and talk about what’s important.
That’s why our first feature focuses on the biggest project our campus has ever seen – University Tower. Construction began three years ago and now we’re just over two months away from opening day. The Pulse will keep you up-to-date on the nitty-gritty of moving day, as well as opening events in which you and your family can partake.
While we’re not asking for submissions as we do with broadcast messages, we do welcome your feedback and story ideas. You can contact us at thepulse@uchc.edu.
Dr. Jeffrey Indes is UConn Health’s chief of vascular and endovascular surgery. (Photo by Janine Gelineau)
Welcome to Dr. Jeffrey Indes – our new chief of vascular and endovascular surgery in the Department of Surgery. Indes is a board-certified vascular surgeon and joins us from Yale where he served as associate program director in vascular surgery and assistant professor of surgery (vascular) at Yale School of Medicine since 2008.
“We are very honored to welcome Dr. Indes to the Department of Surgery at UConn Health,” said Dr. David W. McFadden, chair of the Department of Surgery and Surgeon-in-Chief at UConn Health. “Dr. Indes is a highly-skilled vascular surgeon with in-depth experience and training in the latest advanced, minimally invasive treatments and clinical trial research that will benefit our patients greatly.”
“I am excited to join UConn Health,” said Indes, who arrived last month. “I look forward to using the future hybrid operating room with advanced imaging to allow our team to offer patients the most advanced, minimally invasive treatments for aneurysms, arterial and venous diseases. Also, I plan to launch pioneering clinical trials to test the latest promising vascular surgery techniques and technology.”
Indes specializes in all aspects of vascular and endovascular surgery. He repairs complex aortic, thoracic, and abdominal aneurysms. He also treats patients experiencing blockages from carotid artery disease and peripheral artery disease (PAD). In addition, he performs arteriovenous (AV) access grafts for dialysis patients, and surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS), and mesenteric and renal vascular diseases. He also offers the latest treatments for removing varicose veins.
Indes adds, “As our population ages, it is critical to utilize the latest minimally invasive and endovascular surgical treatments available to care for older patients with vascular diseases who may have complex and challenging cases and ordinarily may not be candidates for surgery.”
“Dr. Indes’ arrival to UConn Health will significantly enhance the clinical, academic and residency training arms of the vascular surgery and endovascular program,” said Dr. Michael Azrin, director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at The Pat and Jim Calhoun Cardiology Center of UConn Health.
Indes received his medical degree from Mount Sinai School of Medicine with special honors in research for studying angiogenesis. He completed his residency training in general surgery at Temple University Hospital and his fellowship in vascular and endovascular surgery at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center.
A screenshot from the Health Enhancement Program online portal.
The Health Enhancement Program (HEP) portal has been updated with its 2016 requirements.
Go to www.cthep.com to find out what exams and screening tests you’ll need to have before the end of the year.
Even though it’s only February, best to start scheduling and completing your appointments now to avoid the inevitable late-year rush. And remember, if you have a chronic condition, the portal allows you to complete those requirements quickly and easily online.
For further assistance, call Care Management Solutions toll-free at (877) 687-1448. HEP representatives will be available Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for February and early March 2016. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes. (Updated 2/23)
Free IVF Information Session Thursday, Feb. 4, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Cell and Genome Sciences Building, 400 Farmington Ave. Specialists with the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services lead an informational session about current treatments for infertility, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF). Each program includes an in-depth explanation of the IVF process, discussion of some of the emotional issues surrounding IVF, and discussion of options for financial planning. Registration is required: 844-467-3483 or www.uconnfertility.com.
Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, Feb. 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.
Nutrition for a Healthy Heart Wednesday, Feb. 10, 3 to 5 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion The UConn Health’s Healthy Nutrition program invites you on a journey to a lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol and healthier weight. This workshop usually is offered on the first Wednesday of the month. Registration fee is $30. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
Breast-feeding Class
Thursday, Feb. 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.
Free Lifestyle Medicine Program: “Lowering Your Cholesterol”
Friday, Feb. 12, noon to 1 p.m., YMCA East Side Branch Community Room, 81 South Elm St., Wallingford Physician assistant Bradley Biskup from UConn Health’s Lifestyle Medicine Program offers ways to lower cholesterol without medication and discusses power foods that fight cholesterol, supplements, and the impact of exercise. Call the YMCA, 203-269-4497, for more information.
Celiac Disease Nutrition Class Monday, Feb. 15, 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, Feb. 15, 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.
Free IVF Information Session Thursday, Feb. 18, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Cell and Genome Sciences Building, 400 Farmington Ave. Specialists with the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services lead an informational session about current treatments for infertility, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF). Each program includes an in-depth explanation of the IVF process, discussion of some of the emotional issues surrounding IVF, and discussion of options for financial planning. Registration is required: 844-467-3483 or www.uconnfertility.com.
Infertility Peer Support Group
Thursday, Feb. 18, 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.
Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, Feb. 20, 2:30 to 3:30 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.
Stroke Survivor Group
Wednesday, Feb. 24, 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.
(Updated time 2/5)
Childbirth Preparation Class
Saturday, Feb. 27, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.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 Workshop: “Things to Consider Before Joining a Research Study”
Monday, Feb. 29, 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.
(rescheduled 2/23)
Free Discovery Series: “New Goals for Treating High Blood Pressure”
Tuesday, Feb. 23March 1, 7 to 9 p.m., UConn Health, Keller Auditorium Dr. William White, Dr. Meryem Tuncel, Dr. Kai Chen and nurse practitioner Mary Beth Barry will discuss the importance of monitoring your blood pressure, the latest hypertension study on ideal blood pressure levels, and how to prevent complications leading to kidney and heart failure. Register online, for free, at http://discoveryseries.uchc.edu or call 800-535-6232.
Free IVF Information Session Thursday, March 3, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Cell and Genome Sciences Building, 400 Farmington Ave.
Specialists with the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services lead an informational session about current treatments for infertility, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF). Each program includes an in-depth explanation of the IVF process, discussion of some of the emotional issues surrounding IVF, and discussion of options for financial planning. Registration is required: 844-467-3483 or www.uconnfertility.com.
Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, March 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.
Nutrition for a Healthy Heart Wednesday, March 9, 2 to 4 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion
The UConn Health’s Healthy Nutrition program invites you on a journey to a lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol and healthier weight. (This workshop usually is offered on the first Wednesday of the month.) Registration fee is $30. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, March 12, 2:30 to 3:30 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.
Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for January and early February 2016. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes. (Updated 1/19)
Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, Jan. 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.
Nutrition for a Healthy Heart Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2 to 4 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion The UConn Health’s Healthy Nutrition program invites you on a journey to a lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol and healthier weight. (This workshop usually is offered on the first Wednesday of the month.) Registration fee is $30. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
Free IVF Information Session Thursday, Jan. 7, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Cell and Genome Sciences Building, 400 Farmington Ave. Specialists with the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services lead an informational session about current treatments for infertility, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF). Each program includes an in-depth explanation of the IVF process, discussion of some of the emotional issues surrounding IVF, and discussion of options for financial planning. Registration is required: 860-679-4580844-467-3483or www.uconnfertility.com.
Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, Jan. 9, 2:30 to 3:30 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.
New 6-week “Ready to Lose” Weight Management Program Starts
Tuesday, Jan. 12, 5 to 6 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd floor east The introductory session is followed by five weekly sessions through Tuesday, Feb. 16, 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 for more information.
Celiac Disease Nutrition Class Monday, Jan. 18, 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.
Breast-feeding Class
Wednesday, Jan. 20, 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.
(Updated phone number 1/8)
Free IVF Information Session Thursday, Jan. 21, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Cell and Genome Sciences Building, 400 Farmington Ave.
Specialists with the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services lead an informational session about current treatments for infertility, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF). Each program includes an in-depth explanation of the IVF process, discussion of some of the emotional issues surrounding IVF, and discussion of options for financial planning. Registration is required: 860-679-4580844-467-3483 or www.uconnfertility.com.
Infertility Peer Support Group
Thursday, Jan. 21, 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, Jan. 23, 8:30 a.m. to 5 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 Workshop: “Things to Consider Before Joining a Research Study”
Monday, Jan. 25, 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.
(Canceled 1/19) Stroke Survivor Group Wednesday, Jan. 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.
Nutrition for a Healthy Heart Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2 to 4 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion
The UConn Health’s Healthy Nutrition program invites you on a journey to a lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol and healthier weight. This workshop usually is offered on the first Wednesday of the month. Registration fee is $30. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
(Updated phone number 1/8)
Free IVF Information Session Thursday, Feb. 4, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Cell and Genome Sciences Building, 400 Farmington Ave.
Specialists with the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services lead an informational session about current treatments for infertility, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF). Each program includes an in-depth explanation of the IVF process, discussion of some of the emotional issues surrounding IVF, and discussion of options for financial planning. Registration is required: 860-679-4580844-467-3483 or www.uconnfertility.com.
Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, Feb. 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.
Breast-feeding Class
Thursday, Feb. 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.
(Added 1/19)
Free Lifestyle Medicine Program: “Lowering Your Cholesterol”
Friday, Feb. 12, noon to 1 p.m., YMCA East Side Branch Community Room, 81 South Elm St., Wallingford Physician assistant Bradley Biskup from UConn Health’s Lifestyle Medicine Program offers ways to lower cholesterol without medication and discusses power foods that fight cholesterol, supplements, and the impact of exercise. Call the YMCA, 203-269-4497, for more information.
Free Cosmetology Services for Cancer Survivors
Monday, Feb. 15, 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.
This fall, UConn Health’s recognition program, supported by the Human Resources Department, hosted a variety of successful events including the Dr. Peter J. Deckers Employee Appreciation Award and the annual celebration of employee years of service. These recognition events serve to highlight the excellence faculty and staff exemplify, every day, across UConn Health.
The sixth annual Dr. Peter J. Deckers Employee Appreciation Award, one of the highest employee award honors, was presented to Susan Garthwait, administrative program coordinator. The award goes to an employee consistently demonstrates passion and commitment, going above and beyond to help meet the goals of the UConn Health.
“Susan has served UConn Health for decades,” John Dempsey Hospital CEO Anne Diamond wrote in her nomination. “Her dedication to improving patient safety and employee engagement through her always positive and creative touch is a true asset to our organization. Susan’s out of the box approach, coupled with her enthusiasm, reaches all levels of the organization in a positive way. Additionally, Susan’s work is being circulated and recognized nationally as a best practice by our High Reliability consulting group, HPI.”
UConn Health’s High Reliability consultant, Steve Kreiser, says, “Susan’s dedicated efforts in the production of the Friday Flyer newsletter has helped to message our mission of safety, quality and satisfaction across the organization, helping to reduce complacency and raise risk awareness.”
The three other finalists for the Deckers Award were:
Qi Cheng, IT project manager, Strategic Projects and Clinical Systems
Elaine Chojnowski, executive staff assistant, Dean of School of Dental Medicine
Greg Sznaj, budget director, Budget and Data Analytics
Donald Carr celebrates 30 years of service at UConn Health. (Photo by Eric Sullivan)
“I’m delighted and honored to be presented with an award in Dr. Deckers’ name,” Garthwait says.
Milestone Years of Service
Earlier this fall, 862 employees celebrated their years of service milestones at the annual Employee Recognition Dinner and Open House. At the Employee Recognition Dinner Oct. 14, 153 employees and guests enjoyed a full evening at the Farmington Club including a cocktail hour, dinner and an awards ceremony where employees who reached milestones of 25, 30, 35 and 40 years of service were recognized with their UConn Health pin by senior leadership. The following week, honorees were recognized at a breakfast open house in the Onyiuke Dining room where senior leadership presented service pins to the 5-, 10-, 15- and 20-year employees.
Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for March and early April 2016. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes. (Updated 3/14)
Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for February and early March 2016. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes. (Updated 2/23)
Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for January and early February 2016. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes. (Updated 1/19)