Community

UConn Health March 2016 Programs, Events

Posted on by

MAR2016Here 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.

Directions to UConn Health are available at www.uchc.edu/directions/index.html.

UConn Health February 2016 Programs, Events

Posted on by

FEB2016Here 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. 23 March 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.

Directions to UConn Health are available at www.uchc.edu/directions/index.html.

UConn Health January 2016 Programs, Events

Posted on by

JAN2016Here 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: 860-679-4580 844-467-3483 or 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: 860-679-4580 844-467-3483 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: 860-679-4580 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.

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.

Directions to UConn Health are available at www.uchc.edu/directions/index.html.

West Road Open to 2-way Traffic Dec. 7

Posted on by

 

On Monday, Dec. 7, at 6 a.m., West Road will transition to two-way traffic from the Academic Building Entrance intersection to Main Road.

  • The transition will open the entire length of West Road to two-way traffic beginning at the Munson/Middle Road campus entrance. Drivers entering the UConn Health campus at the Munson/Middle Road entrance will be able to reach Main Road by taking a left onto West Road.
  • Traffic from Parking Lots A, B, D, K located at the Academic Building entrance will be able to turn right onto West Road.
  • Traffic will be able to turn left or right onto Main Road from West Road.
  • Stop signs will be in place on West Road at the Academic Building entrance and the Main Road intersection.
  • When parking on West Road, your vehicle must be facing in the same direction as the traffic lane.

Please adhere to the 15 mph speed limit and use extra caution in this area as we all become familiar with the new traffic pattern.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Parking and Transportation Office, x4248 or parking.transportation@uchc.edu.

(See the slide show above for more details.)

 

 

Thanksgiving Gift of Footwear, Foot Care at Homeless Shelters

Posted on by

  • Dr. Lauren Geaney, UConn Health foot and ankle surgeon, helps distribute footwear at the Friendship Service Center on November 24, 2015. Dr. Michael Aronow (back left), formerly of UConn Health and now in private practice, has been the local organizer of the annual "Our Hearts to Your Soles" campaign since 2007. (Chris DeFrancesco/UConn Health Photo)
In what is now a Thanksgiving week tradition, a group of local foot care providers offered free shoes, socks and foot exams at homeless shelters in New Britain Tuesday night.

The volunteers included three from the UConn Musculoskeletal Institute at UConn Health – Dr. Lauren Geaney, cast technician Kathleen York and medical assistant Lori Engengrro – as well as Dr. Michael Aronow, a former UConn Health physician now in private practice. It was Aronow who first got UConn Health involved in the nationwide Our Hearts to Your Soles campaign eight years ago.

At the Friendship Service Center, 28 people received a new pair of shoes or boots and left with a least one pair of socks, and 15 more people received footwear at the Salvation Army. Some also received a free foot exam.

The shoes and boots were donated by Red Wing Shoes, and the socks were provided by Dignity U Wear. Enough shoes, boots and socks were left behind at the two locations to give to at least 100 other people in need in the coming months.

Obamacare Enrollees Turn to UConn Health Financial Counselors

Posted on by

It’s open enrollment for people seeking health coverage under what’s become known as “Obamacare,” and that makes for a busy time for UConn Health’s financial counselors.

The Patient Financial Services group gets involved when a “self-pay” patient – often someone without health insurance – comes to UConn Health for care.

“We’ll screen them for a host of things, depending on income, family size, and if they don’t qualify for HUSKY or Medicaid, then we’ll go to Obamacare as an alternative,” says John Resendes, who supervises six financial counselors. “Now that open enrollment is here, we’re getting a lot more people now, and we will through January.”

This is due in part to increased penalties –from $95 to $695– for not having health insurance and to an enrollment process that has become smoother –thanks to greater awareness, technical improvements, and access to financial counselors like Tanya Ledesma.

UConn Health financial counselor Tanya Ledesma takes a patient's call. (Chris DeFrancesco/UConn Health Photo)
UConn Health financial counselor Tanya Ledesma takes a patient’s call. (Chris DeFrancesco/UConn Health Photo)

“Tanya has a lot of experience with the program, the eligibility requirements and all that,” Resendes says.

Ledesma joined UConn Health early last year, hired for her expertise in Access Health CT, the state’s health insurance marketplace. She helps patients understand the questions they may not know to ask.

“Being knowledgeable about your income is one of the biggest things, and also, what is your household composition, are you a tax dependent on your parents, for example,” Ledesma says. “Instead of going into the initial low-monthly-premium, high-deductible plan, we’re here to educate them, where if you pay $10 more that could make a huge difference on your deductible. That’s what I’m seeing more of now.”

Ledesma often finds herself on conference calls with the patient and Access Health CT.

“The most common mistake is that they’re self-employed and they say what their gross income is, and that’s not something you have to disclose,” Ledesma says. “What you have to disclose is from Schedule C (income or loss from the business), so that makes a huge difference in the credits that they get.”

The financial counselors work with patients by phone or in person, either in the office, or elsewhere on the UConn Health campus. They will meet patients at their appointments.

“What we do is, there are three different plans, we’ll bring them all up and see which one is the best for you, or which providers are on that network,” Resendes says. “We help the patient, we fill out all the paperwork.”

The objective is to find ways to avoid unpaid medical bills, which ultimately helps both the patient and the clinical enterprise. John Dempsey Hospital receives no funding for charity care, and therefore provides this care at a loss. UConn Health has seen a 50 percent reduction in charity care grants since the implementation of the Affordable Care Act.

Finish Line in Sight for UConn Health’s New Hospital Tower

Posted on by

  • New UConn Health hospital tower as it appears Oct. 15, 2015 (Janine Gelineau/UConn Health)
It’s only a matter of months now until UConn Health’s new hospital tower changes from a construction worksite to a building ready for occupancy.

The new building, which will feature 169 single-bed inpatient rooms, is widely considered to be the centerpiece of UConn’s share of Gov. Dannel P. Malloy’s Bioscience Connecticut initiative, an $864 million package of state investments designed to be a catalyst for economic growth in the health care and biomedical research industries. As of Sept. 1, the total number of construction jobs associated with Bioscience Connecticut was 4,540.

Malloy was on the UConn Health campus 14 months ago to sign the steel beam that would top out the tower. Construction started on the building and an adjoining 400-space parking garage April 2013.

Clinical staff and administration have started touring parts of the building and seeing finished mock-ups of patient rooms, emergency department bays and operating rooms. The new tower will include:

  • An expanded emergency department
  • Four 28-bed units that will house surgery, orthopedic, oncology and medical patients
  • A 28-bed intensive care unit with expanded surgical, medicine and neurology critical care services
  • A 29-bed intermediate unit

Once the new tower construction is complete and the hospital opens, there will be a second phase of work to make the final connections to the main building through the existing emergency department. There will also be additional exterior site work to complete near the existing ED entrance that cannot be done until after the ED moves.

Outpatient Pavilion

The UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion has one final milestone ahead: the establishment of a women’s health center on the top floor, with services including a women’s radiology center, obstetrics and gynecology, maternal-fetal medicine, and advanced women’s ultrasound.

The first practices moved in to the new building in February, and by early summer floors 1 through 7 were operational. The result has been the movement of nearly all outpatient services into a single place on the lower campus, in a patient-friendly environment, with convenient parking in a connected garage.

With its abundance of natural lighting, energy efficient design, and shower facilities to encourage employees to bike to work, the pavilion is on its way to earning Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. Additionally, the Connecticut Green Building Council has just named the building the winner of its 2015 Institutional Award of Merit.

Academic Building

Construction is well underway at the academic entrance, where a modernization and expansion of space for the medical, dental and graduate schools is taking place. Bioscience Connecticut calls for a 30 percent increase in class sizes and the addition and renovations will provide space to support this growth. UConn Health held a groundbreaking on convocation day. The academic entrance will remain a construction site through May.

L Building

Though less visible than the projects already mentioned, a rebuild of UConn Health’s laboratory space in what’s known as the L Building is a significant portion of the Bioscience Connecticut construction. The renovations are being accomplished under two separate projects. Project 1 started in late 2012 and is complete. Project 2 is scheduled to be complete by early 2017, at which time UConn Health will boast modern lab layouts that are open plan and conducive to collaborative research.

Cell and Genome Sciences Building

The addition of incubator laboratory space continues at the Cell and Genome Sciences Building, 400 Farmington Ave., which will enable UConn Health to attract more biotech startups. It’s another aspect of the vision of Bioscience Connecticut to create a worldwide biomedical research/biotech hub in the state. This project is scheduled for completion by the end of November 2015.

Clinic Building

The design work is complete for major renovation to the Dental School clinical space, the Pat and Jim Calhoun Cardiology Center, and the Main Lobby. This phased renovation will take more than two years to complete but when finished will provide state-of-the-art dental clinical space and an expanded cardiology center with additional exam space. The Main Lobby will also be given a significant update that enhances the patient flow and provides easy access to the renovated spaces. The renovations are expected to begin in the second quarter of 2016.

UConn Health December 2015 Programs, Events

Posted on by

Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for December and early January 2016. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes.

Nutrition for a Healthy Heart
Wednesday, Dec. 2, 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, Dec. 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: 860-679-4580 or www.uconnfertility.com.

Holiday Bazaar and Basket Raffle
Friday, Dec. 4, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., UConn Health, Main Lobby
The UConn Health Auxiliary’s annual winter holiday shopping event includes vendors in the main lobby and mezzanine and the Auxiliary’s popular raffle of gift baskets created and donated by UConn Health employees. Drawing is at 3:30. For more information please call 860-679-2963.

Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, Dec. 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 Discovery Series: “Recognizing the Signs of Stroke”
Tuesday, Dec. 8, 7 to 9 p.m., UConn Health, Keller Auditorium
Each year, nearly 800,000 people in the U.S. experience a stroke. It can happen to anyone at any age and any time. UConn Health stroke experts Dr. Sanjay Mittal and Dr. Ryan Zengou will discuss the warning signs and preventive measures. Register online, for free, at http://discoveryseries.uchc.edu or call 800-535-6232.

Childbirth Preparation Class
Saturday, Dec. 12, 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.

Stroke Survivor Group
Wednesday, Dec. 16, 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.

Infertility Peer Support Group
Thursday, Dec. 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.

Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, Dec. 19, 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.

Celiac Disease Nutrition Class
Monday, Dec. 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.

Free Cosmetology Services for Cancer Survivors
Monday, Dec. 21, 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 monthly 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.

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: 860-679-4580 or www.uconnfertility.com.

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.

Directions to UConn Health are available at www.uchc.edu/directions/index.html.

Veteran’s Day Observance Kicks off ‘40 Days of Thanks’

Posted on by

  • Robin Frank (right) gives opening remarks at the Student Services Center's Veteran's Day observance on November 10, 2015. (Chris DeFrancesco/UConn Health Photo)
Several dozen students, faculty and staff took time out Tuesday for a Veteran’s Day observance at the Student Services Center.

It was the start of Student Services’ “40 Days of Thanks” campaign, which also includes holiday cards people can sign and send to a member of the military.

“We also are accepting donations for South Park Inn, and we also have a Wall of Thanks,” says Alison Valone Suhocki, assistant registrar and one of the organizers. “Students, faculty, staff can come over and sign on the wall and say what they’re thankful for. It’s really some things to really home in on being thankful for where we are in our lives and for those who have served, and to support those who are serving.”

The celebration included cupcakes—260 of them frosted red, white and blue, arranged to resemble an American flag.

Among the veterans on hand was Suzanne Zimmerman, a receptionist in the UConn School of Dental Medicine, who provided administrative support for a military intelligence unit while stationed in West Germany during the Cold War. She says today’s service members face a different world.

“We’re out there, and this is a time when I wouldn’t want to be out there,” Zimmerman says. “I wouldn’t want my son to be out there, but I give these women and men a lot of credit to be out there.”

Gregory de Gruchy spent four years on active duty with the Marines, including tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan, before finishing his undergraduate studies at UConn. Now in his first year at the UConn School of Medicine, he says his experience helped steer him toward a career in medicine.

“When I was in the military I really realized I wanted to work in health care,” de Gruchy says. “I was involved in my unit in some of the aspects of the stress of deployments. We were a very high-deployment unit and we had to deal with a lot of the issues that come up with that pace of operations.”

UConn Health’s MotherToBaby Affiliate Part of National Drug Safety Coalition

Posted on by

A national movement to improve public health and patient safety by reducing risk associated with certain medications is underway, and UConn Health’s MotherToBaby CT program is part of it.

The medications in question are subject to what are known as Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies, or REMS. This protocol is designed to ensure a drug’s benefits outweigh its risks.

Sharon Voyer Lavigne is a teratogen information specialist and coordinator of the MotherToBaby CT program at UConn Health. (Janine Gelineau/UConn Health Photo)
Sharon Voyer Lavigne is a teratogen information specialist and coordinator of the MotherToBaby CT at UConn Health. (Janine Gelineau/UConn Health Photo)

The Patients Alliance for Drug Safety Protections is a coalition of 20 public health, women’s health, health professional, and disease organizations, including the international nonprofit Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS), of which MotherToBabyCT is an affiliate.

“We have worked tirelessly to assist providers and the public in making the best medication choices for the best pregnancy outcomes,” says MotherToBaby CT coordinator Sharon Voyer Lavigne. “We continue to support women who are trying to avoid or reduce harmful exposure use during the childbearing years in an effort to empower them to increase the wellness of their children.”

The organizations that make up the alliance represent millions of Americans with serious diseases who benefit from medications marketed with REMS safety restrictions.

The coalition’s priorities include raising awareness that REMS allow the Food and Drug Administration to approve medications that otherwise would be too dangerous to be allowed on the market, such as drugs to treat cancer, multiple sclerosis or kidney disease. It also aims to prevent diversion of drugs into a black market.

As part of these efforts, the Patients Alliance for Drug Safety Protections has launched a new online resource to explain REMS: www.drugprotections.org.

MotherToBaby CT is part of the Division of Medical Genetics in UConn Health’s Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences. Formerly known as the Connecticut Pregnancy Exposure Information Service, the program got started three decades ago with a seed grant from the March of Dimes. Lavigne and fellow UConn Health counselors Joanne Brochu and Ginger Nichols serve on the OTIS education committee and helped create many of the MotherToBaby Fact Sheets.

OTIS is a professional society that supports and contributes to worldwide initiatives for education in and research of teratology, the study of birth defects.

MotherToBaby affiliates and OTIS are suggested resources by many agencies including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). They are dedicated to providing evidence-based information to mothers, health care professionals, and the general public about medications and other exposures during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

More information about MotherToBaby CT is available at 800-325-5391, 866-626-6847, mothertobaby@uchc.edu and http://humangenetics.uchc.edu/mother_baby.