Farmington Campus

App Enables Real-time Tracking of New Campus Shuttles

Posted on August 3, 2017August 3, 2017 by Chris DeFrancesco

LAZ Parking shuttle driver Sandra Huertas shows how live vehicle tracking is now available on the UConn Health campus shuttle system. (Photo by Kristin Wallace)

You may have noticed something different about the campus shuttles at UConn Health.

The buses have digital route and destination signs and are branded with the UConn Health logo. The drivers wear blue uniforms.

Less obvious, the buses also have GPS monitoring. And that enables a feature that’s new to UConn Health shuttle passengers.

“We are excited to roll out a mobile phone app and desktop link that track the shuttles along their routes and display the wait time between shuttle stops,” says Allan Peterson, director of Parking, Transportation and Event Services.

UConn Health’s campus shuttle system is now available on the Ride Systems app, accessible by smart phone or desktop.

LAZ Parking is the new campus shuttle provider. The routes and schedules remain the same and are now accessible, along with the buses’ locations in real time, through the Ride Systems app. Ride Systems is available on both iPhone and Android platforms. Desktop users also can see the live vehicle tracker and route details at www.uconnhealthshuttles.com.

“LAZ brings some other great enhancements to our shuttle service, including new, more fuel-efficient vehicles,” Peterson says. “The drivers undergo a training program focused on both safe operating procedures and customer service skills.”

Already the contractor for UConn Health’s parking garages and valet service, LAZ became the campus shuttle service provider July 1.

UConn Health August 2017 Programs, Events

Posted on July 19, 2017August 25, 2017 by Chris DeFrancesco

Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for August and early September 2017. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes. (Last updated 8/11)

UConn Health Epilepsy Support Group
Wednesday, Aug. 2, 6:30 to 8 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd Floor, Large Conference Room S2010
The UConn Health Department of Neurology invites those with epilepsy to a monthly group meeting surrounding life with epilepsy. Discussion topics include coping methods, support systems, and resources. The group generally will meet on the first Wednesday of the month. Please call 860-679-3186 for more information.

Canceled 8/2
Breast Cancer Support Group
Thursday, Aug. 3, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
This is a support group intended for women under the age of 45 who’ve been diagnosed with non-metastatic breast cancer. Women at any point in their cancer survivorship journey are welcome. Meetings are the first and third Thursday of the month. To register or more information, call 860-679-7820 or email tillinghast@uchc.edu.

Childbirth Preparation Class
Saturday, Aug. 5, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor conference room S3301
This one-day class covers anatomy and physiology of pregnancy and labor, emotions of pregnancy, nutrition, fetal growth and development, comfort measures for labor, working with unexpected events in labor, cesarean delivery, and practice of relaxation and breathing techniques for labor. Class size is limited to eight couples. Remember to bring two pillows and wear comfortable clothing. Light snack is provided. Fee is $100. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 to register or for more information.

Living Well With Epilepsy: A Support Group for Young Adults
Saturday, Aug. 5, noon to 1:30 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd Floor, Large Conference Room S2010
The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut, in partnership with the UConn Health Department of Neurology, offers a support group for young adults who live with epilepsy. This group is open to those aged 18 to 30 who would like to join others to share experience, gain peer support, and learn together about epilepsy and overcoming its challenges to live well. The group generally meets on the first Saturday of the month. Please call 860-346-1924 or email manzelone.efct@sbcglobal.net for more information.

Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, Aug. 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 Cosmetology Services for Cancer Survivors
Monday, Aug. 14, 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 teach women how to cope with skin changes and hair loss using cosmetic and skin care products donated by the cosmetic industry. Classes are offered every other month and are not limited to UConn Health patients. Please call 860-679-7820 to register (required).

Breast-feeding Class
Tuesday, Aug. 15, 7 to 9 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor conference room S3301
A certified lactation consultant leads a discussion of topics including the benefits of breast-feeding, how to get started, and how the rest of the family can help the breast-feeding mother as well as how to continue breast-feeding and working. Fee is $25 per couple. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

(Updated time 8/11)
Breast Cancer Support Group
Thursday, Aug. 17, ~~6:30 to 7:30 p.m.~~ 7 to 8 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
This is a support group intended for women under the age of 45 who’ve been diagnosed with non-metastatic breast cancer. Women at any point in their cancer survivorship journey are welcome. Meetings are the ~~first and~~ third Thursday of the month. To register or more information, call 860-679-7820 or email tillinghast@uchc.edu.

Infertility Peer Support Group
Thursday, Aug. 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, Aug. 19, 2 p.m., UConn Health, University Tower lobby
A representative will guide you through labor and delivery, postpartum, and the nursery at the UConn John Dempsey Hospital. Children and grandparents are welcome. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

Celiac Disease Nutrition Class
Monday, Aug. 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. A physician’s referral is required. Fee is $20. Call 860-679-3245 more information.

Stroke Survivor Group
Wednesday, Aug. 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 Workshop: “Things to Consider Before Joining a Research Study”
Monday, Aug. 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.

Living Well With Epilepsy: A Support Group for Young Adults
Saturday, Sept. 2, noon to 1:30 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd Floor, Large Conference Room S2010
The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut, in partnership with the UConn Health Department of Neurology, offers a support group for young adults who live with epilepsy. This group is open to those aged 18 to 30 who would like to join others to share experience, gain peer support, and learn together about epilepsy and overcoming its challenges to live well. The group generally meets on the first Saturday of the month. Please call 860-346-1924 or email manzelone.efct@sbcglobal.net for more information.

Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, Sept. 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.

UConn Health Epilepsy Support Group
Wednesday, Sept. 6, 6:30 to 8 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd Floor, Large Conference Room S2010
The UConn Health Department of Neurology invites those with epilepsy to a monthly group meeting surrounding life with epilepsy. Discussion topics include coping methods, support systems, and resources. The group generally meets on the first Wednesday of the month. Please call 860-679-3186 for more information.

(Canceled 8/2)
~~Breast Cancer Support Group~~
~~Thursday, Sept. 7, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.~~, UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
This is a support group intended for women under the age of 45 who’ve been diagnosed with non-metastatic breast cancer. Women at any point in their cancer survivorship journey are welcome. Meetings are the first and third Thursday of the month. To register or more information, call 860-679-7820 or email tillinghast@uchc.edu.

Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, Sept. 9, 2 p.m., UConn Health, University Tower lobby
A representative will guide you through labor and delivery, postpartum, and the nursery at the UConn John Dempsey Hospital. Children and grandparents are welcome. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

Childbirth Preparation Class
Wednesday, Sept. 13, 6 to 10 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor conference room S3301
This one-day class covers anatomy and physiology of pregnancy and labor, emotions of pregnancy, nutrition, fetal growth and development, comfort measures for labor, working with unexpected events in labor, cesarean delivery, and practice of relaxation and breathing techniques for labor. Class size is limited to eight couples. Remember to bring two pillows and wear comfortable clothing. Light snack is provided. Fee is $100. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 to register or for more information.

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

UConn Health July 2017 Programs, Events

Posted on June 19, 2017July 27, 2017 by Chris DeFrancesco

Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for July and early August 2017. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes. (Updated 7/14)

Living Well With Epilepsy: A Support Group for Young Adults
Saturday, July 1, noon to 1:30 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd Floor, Large Conference Room S2010
The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut, in partnership with the UConn Health Department of Neurology, offers a support group for young adults who live with epilepsy. This group is open to those aged 18 to 30 who would like to join others to share experience, gain peer support, and learn together about epilepsy and overcoming its challenges to live well. The group generally meets on the first Saturday of the month. Please call 860-346-1924 or email manzelone.efct@sbcglobal.net for more information.

Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, July 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.

Childbirth Preparation Class
Wednesday, July 5, 6 to 10 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor conference room S3301
This one-day class covers anatomy and physiology of pregnancy and labor, emotions of pregnancy, nutrition, fetal growth and development, comfort measures for labor, working with unexpected events in labor, cesarean delivery, and practice of relaxation and breathing techniques for labor. Class size is limited to eight couples. Remember to bring two pillows and wear comfortable clothing. Light snack is provided. Fee is $100. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 to register or for more information.

UConn Health Epilepsy Support Group
Wednesday, July 5, 6:30 to 8 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd Floor, Large Conference Room S2010
The UConn Health Department of Neurology invites those with epilepsy to a monthly group meeting surrounding life with epilepsy. Discussion topics include coping methods, support systems, and resources. The group generally meets on the first Wednesday of the month. Please call 860-679-3186 for more information.

Breast Cancer Support Group
Thursday, July 6, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
This is a support group intended for women under the age of 45 who’ve been diagnosed with non-metastatic breast cancer. Women at any point in their cancer survivorship journey are welcome. Meetings are the first and third Thursday of the month. To register or more information, call 860-679-7820 or email tillinghast@uchc.edu.

Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, July 8, 2 p.m., UConn Health, University Tower lobby
A representative will guide you through labor and delivery, postpartum, and the nursery at the UConn John Dempsey Hospital. Children and grandparents are welcome. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

Breast-feeding Class
Wednesday, July 12, 7 to 9 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor conference room S3301
A certified lactation consultant leads a discussion of topics including the benefits of breast-feeding, how to get started, and how the rest of the family can help the breast-feeding mother as well as how to continue breast-feeding and working. Fee is $25 per couple. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

Celiac Disease Nutrition Class
Monday, July 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. A physician’s referral is required. Fee is $20. Call 860-679-3245 more information.

Deleted 7/14. Program resumes Sept. 21.
~~Living With Heart Disease Support Group~~
~~Thursday, July 20, 11 a.m. to noon, UConn Health, University Tower, 2nd floor conference room~~
Patients with heart disease, along with their families and caregivers, meet on the third Thursday of the month to discuss post-diagnosis topics such as prevention and wellness, social and emotional support, heath-healthy recipes, and coping strategies and resources. Call 860-679-3633 to learn more.

Breast Cancer Support Group
Thursday, July 20, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
This is a support group intended for women under the age of 45 who’ve been diagnosed with non-metastatic breast cancer. Women at any point in their cancer survivorship journey are welcome. Meetings are the first and third Thursday of the month. To register or more information, call 860-679-7820 or email tillinghast@uchc.edu.

Infertility Peer Support Group
Thursday, July 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.

Stroke Survivor Group
Wednesday, July 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.

Free Workshop: “Things to Consider Before Joining a Research Study”
Monday, July 31, 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.

Breast Cancer Support Group
Thursday, Aug. 3, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
This is a support group intended for women under the age of 45 who’ve been diagnosed with non-metastatic breast cancer. Women at any point in their cancer survivorship journey are welcome. Meetings are the first and third Thursday of the month. To register or more information, call 860-679-7820 or email tillinghast@uchc.edu.

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

Second Project Search Graduation Slated June 2

Posted on May 31, 2017May 31, 2017 by Carolyn Pennington

Kristin Sadowsky (second from left), an intern with Favarh Project SEARCH, learns administrative support tasks from her mentors Michelle Thompson , Angela Rizzolo and skills trainer Pam Applewhite-Miller. (Photo by R. Wright)

Nine interns with Project SEARCH, an innovative program designed to prepare young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) for careers, not just jobs, will be graduating from the program at a special “bridge ceremony” on Friday, June 2.

Project SEARCH is the most successful youth transition program in the nation at placing young adults with IDD in gainful employment. Connecticut’s only program, a partnership between Favarh – The Arc of the Farmington Valley – and UConn Health, is located at the UConn Health Farmington campus. At the program, young people with IDD are demonstrating that when given the opportunity and proper supports to succeed, they can and do exceed, often beyond our preconceived notions of what is possible.

Vanessa Flenke (center), an intern with Favarh Project SEARCH, learns about delivering excellent patient care at UMG Ophthalmology from her mentors Cheryl Berry and Vivian Holly. (Photo by Ania Scott)

Project SEARCH was founded in 1996 at the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. The program is a one-year, unpaid internship program designed for students either in their last year of high school or graduates in their first year out of school.

The largest private employer in Canton with 275 employees, Favarh was founded in 1958 by eight local families who all wanted a better life for their children with intellectual disabilities. Today, Favarh is a local chapter of the Arc, the world’s largest community-based organization for people with intellectual, physical and developmental disabilities. Favarh supports more than 350 children, young adults, adults, seniors and families throughout the Greater Farmington Valley area and beyond.

Media contact: Bill Neagus, wneagus@favarh.org

New Patio Opens at Munson Road

Posted on May 11, 2017May 11, 2017 by Carolyn Pennington

An ice cream social and ribbon-cutting unveiling the new patio area outside the cafeteria at Munson Road was held Monday. The Campus Planning, Design and Construction folks tell us the building won architectural awards when it was first built and the decks were an integral part of the design. But after 50 years of use, the decks had maintenance and water leakage issues. The walk out areas on all levels were eliminated except the cafeteria level. The new patio is slightly larger than the original and has seating for 60 people. It was also raised 7 inches to the cafeteria floor level making it more accessible from both the cafeteria and the lobby. The patio layout pays tribute to the original roof ponds and the sleek stainless steel cable rail system was chosen to complement the buildings lines and is maintenance free. Low maintenance plantings are also included in the design.

Recognizing Women in Medicine and Science

Posted on May 4, 2017May 4, 2017 by Chris DeFrancesco

Drs. Pam Taxel (left) and Marja Hurley (right) present Dr. Jeanine Suchecki with a Group on Women in Medicine and Science Outstanding Faculty Recognition Award. (Photo by John Atashian)

This week our Group on Women in Medicine and Science recognized outstanding women faculty and students, presenting its own outstanding faculty recognition awards:

Outstanding Basic Scientist Faculty Award
Nancy Petry, professor of medicine
Outstanding Clinician Scientist Faculty Award
Dr. Jeanine Suchecki, chief, Division of Ophthalmology

GWIMS also recognized three women for other honors received:

Connecticut Technology Council Research Innovation and Leadership Award
Nancy Petry, professor of medicine
Connecticut Technology Council Research Innovation and Leadership Honoree
Deborah Dorcemus, UConn biomedical engineering doctoral candidate
UConn Provost 2017 Outstanding Senior Women Academic Achievement Award
Kristin Russomanno, UConn School of Medicine Class of 2017

In his remarks at the GWIMS annual symposium Monday, Dr. Andy Agwunobi, UConn Health CEO and VP for health affairs, said, “In all our divisions, women are keeping our health care institution’s engine going.”

More than 70 percent of UConn Health employees are women.

Jill Morris, program director at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, presented the keynote address, titled “Women in Biomedical Careers.”

UConn Health May 2017 Programs, Events

Posted on April 18, 2017May 26, 2017 by Chris DeFrancesco

Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for May and early June 2017. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes. (Last updated 4/27)

Free Discovery Series: “A Conversation About Multiple Sclerosis”
Monday, May 1, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Cell and Genome Sciences Building, 400 Farmington Ave.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable and often disabling disease of the central nervous system. The severity of MS, the course it takes, and its symptoms vary from person to person. Join UConn Health’s multiple sclerosis expert Dr. Matthew Tremblay to learn about the symptoms of MS, how it’s diagnosed, and the latest treatment advances. Register online, for free, at bit.ly/UCHdisc or call 800-535-6232.

UConn Health Epilepsy Support Group
Wednesday, May 3, 6:30 to 8 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2^nd Floor, Large Conference Room S2010
The UConn Health Department of Neurology invites those with epilepsy to a monthly group meeting surrounding life with epilepsy. Discussion topics include coping methods, support systems, and resources. The group generally will meet on the first Wednesday of the month. Please call 860-679-3186 for more information.

UConn Health Auxiliary’s Spring Market
Friday, May 5, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Main Building, cafeteria
The UConn Health Auxiliary’s annual spring shopping event includes vendors in the cafeteria. Money raised goes toward the Auxiliary’s free mammogram programs, its patient assistance program, and its patient education program in the Outpatient Pavilion. For more information please call 860-679-2963.

Living Well With Epilepsy: A Support Group for Young Adults
Saturday, May 6, noon to 1:30 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2^nd Floor, Large Conference Room S2010
The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut, in partnership with the UConn Health Department of Neurology, offers a support group for young adults who live with epilepsy. This group is open to those aged 18 to 30 who would like to join others to share experience, gain peer support, and learn together about epilepsy and overcoming its challenges to live well. Please call 860-346-1924 or email manzelone.efct@sbcglobal.net for more information.

Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, May 6, 2 p.m., UConn Health, University Tower lobby
A representative will guide you through labor and delivery, postpartum, and the nursery at the UConn John Dempsey Hospital. Children and grandparents are welcome. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, May 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.

(Added 4/27)
New 6-week “Ready to Lose” Weight Management Program Starts
Tuesday, May 9, 5 to 6 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd floor east
The introductory session is followed by five weekly sessions through Tuesday, June 13, 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 or 860-679-7692 for more information.

Celiac Disease Nutrition Class
Monday, May 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. A physician’s referral is required. Fee is $20. Call 860-679-3245 more information.

Breast-feeding Class
Wednesday, May 17, 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, May 18, 11 a.m. to noon, UConn Health, University Tower, 2nd floor conference room
Patients with heart disease, along with their families and caregivers, meet on the third Thursday of the month to discuss post-diagnosis topics such as prevention and wellness, social and emotional support, heath-healthy recipes, and coping strategies and resources. Call 860-679-3633 to learn more.

Infertility Peer Support Group
Thursday, May 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.

Stroke Survivor Group
Wednesday, May 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.

Childbirth Preparation Class
Wednesday, May 24, 6 to 10 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3^rd floor conference room S3301
This one-day class covers anatomy and physiology of pregnancy and labor, emotions of pregnancy, nutrition, fetal growth and development, comfort measures for labor, working with unexpected events in labor, cesarean delivery, and practice of relaxation and breathing techniques for labor. Class size is limited to eight couples. Remember to bring two pillows and wear comfortable clothing. Light snack is provided. Fee is $100. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 to register or for more information.

Living Well With Epilepsy: A Support Group for Young Adults
Saturday, June 3, noon to 1:30 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2^nd Floor, Large Conference Room S2010
The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut, in partnership with the UConn Health Department of Neurology, offers a support group for young adults who live with epilepsy. This group is open to those aged 18 to 30 who would like to join others to share experience, gain peer support, and learn together about epilepsy and overcoming its challenges to live well. Please call 860-346-1924 or email manzelone.efct@sbcglobal.net for more information.

Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, June 3, 2 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health patients) are invited to join others whose lives have been touched by bladder cancer. This support group, established in partnership with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, usually meets on the first Saturday of the month and is the only group of its kind in New England. Call 888-901-BCAN for more information.

UConn Health Epilepsy Support Group
Wednesday, June 7, 6:30 to 8 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2^nd Floor, Large Conference Room S2010
The UConn Health Department of Neurology invites those with epilepsy to a monthly group meeting surrounding life with epilepsy. Discussion topics include coping methods, support systems, and resources. The group generally will meet on the first Wednesday of the month. Please call 860-679-3186 for more information.

Childbirth Preparation Class
Saturday, June 10, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3^rd floor conference room S3301
This one-day class covers anatomy and physiology of pregnancy and labor, emotions of pregnancy, nutrition, fetal growth and development, comfort measures for labor, working with unexpected events in labor, cesarean delivery, and practice of relaxation and breathing techniques for labor. Class size is limited to eight couples. Remember to bring two pillows and wear comfortable clothing. Light snack is provided. Fee is $100. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 to register or for more information.

Breast-feeding Class
Wednesday, June 13, 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, June 15, 11 a.m. to noon, UConn Health, University Tower, 2nd floor conference room
Patients with heart disease, along with their families and caregivers, meet on the third Thursday of the month to discuss post-diagnosis topics such as prevention and wellness, social and emotional support, heath-healthy recipes, and coping strategies and resources. Call 860-679-3633 to learn more.

Infertility Peer Support Group
Thursday, June 15, 7 p.m., Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, 2 Batterson Park Road, Farmington.
The Greater Hartford chapter of RESOLVE, a national nonprofit resource for those facing the challenges of infertility, offers support, information and confidential, informal, peer-led discussions on the third Thursday of the month. To learn more or to check for weather-related cancellation, call 860-523-8337.

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

2017 Health, Safety and Environmental Fair Photos

Posted on April 13, 2017April 13, 2017 by Carolyn Pennington

Football was the theme of this year’s Health, Safety and Environmental Fair held in the Food Court April 7. Many UConn Health departments took part offering giveaways and games. Some of the highlights included visits from Miss Connecticut, Miss Chrysanthemum, the UConn husky dog Jonathan XIV and the UConn Husky mascot. View the photo gallery to see if you recognize anyone you know.

Engaging and Educating Patients While They Wait

Posted on January 5, 2017 by Carolyn Pennington

The Pulmonary Department waiting room where a new TV monitor has been installed in partnership with AccentHealth, a healthcare media company that provides healthy living video programming. (Photo by Janine Gelineau)

If you have ever spent time in your doctor’s waiting room, you may have read some well-worn magazines or watched reality TV to pass the time. This is no longer the case at UConn Health.

Recently, new TV monitors were installed in many of the waiting rooms in the Outpatient Pavilion and the Cardiology, Pulmonary and Nephrology waiting rooms in the main building. In partnership with AccentHealth, a healthcare media company that provides a patient engagement solution for physician waiting and exam rooms, UConn Health patients are being educated and empowered to live healthy lives by receiving credible health information.

“The patients in our waiting rooms are watching a television network that provides exclusive programming produced by CNN and co-hosted by CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta and HLN Morning News Anchor Robin Meade. AccentHealth also delivers specialty networks that are produced in partnership with the American Cancer Society, Harvard Medical School, and the American Heart Association,” says Vice President of Ambulatory Services Anne Horbatuck. Segments include health news, living well, fitness, nutrition, medical breakthroughs, safety tips, and healthy recipes. In addition to the network programming, patients also view UConn Health produced videos and messaging.

“Patients used to sit down and either check their phones or read a magazine. Now they spend their time in the waiting room learning about health-related topics or getting wellness tips,” says practice manager Kelly Clarke. “The patient feedback has been so positive that we have increased the time the programming is available in our waiting room,” adds Clarke.

Bye-bye, Building 20

Posted on January 5, 2017January 5, 2017 by Carolyn Pennington

Building 20, constructed in 1990 for extra office space at UConn Health, in the process of being demolished. (Photo by Janine Gelineau)

There are probably not too many of us mourning the demise of Building 20 – the small wood frame structure that was connected to the back of the main building where the police department is located. While it was drafty and dreary and had no running water (which meant no bathrooms!), it did serve a vital need for office space when it was first constructed in 1990.

Occupancy varied over the ensuing years, but typically served as academic and research-related support space. According to Thomas Trutter, AVP of campus planning, design and construction, “By removing this older, less than desirable structure, we are reducing long-term maintenance costs and the newly renovated space in the main building provides much more energy efficient and better configured office space.”