UPMC’s Post

Representation in health care is not just about numbers; it's about ensuring that all patients receive the personalized and effective care they deserve. Stacy Bartlett, MD from UPMC Family Medicine discusses her approach to care and how she works to affect change in the very health care systems that have historically perpetuated inequities. "Research shows that access to primary care is one of the most effective ways to reduce inequity. I’m grateful to care for patients in underserved communities where I can share what I know and learn from them. Family doctors touch so many aspects of a person’s life — their physical health, mental health, and reproductive health." https://lnkd.in/eUZGQvpv

Andrea H., Athletic Trainer II, went to college in central Pennsylvania and then left the state, spending time in Hawaii and Connecticut as she pursued her career in athletic training and got her master's degree. Then last year, two of Andrea's former colleagues contacted her and recruited her to come back home to UPMC. "They had a position open and told me about all the changes that benefited us as UPMC employees," Andrea said. "The timing was right, so I made the move back and am happy to be home." "Since being back, I have been promoted to Athletic Trainer II and Site Coordinator of my school. I am enjoying a better work-life balance that isn’t always easy to come by as an Athletic Trainer and I hope to continue to climb the career ladder here at UPMC," Andrea said. Learn more about joining Andrea's team in sports medicine at UPMC: https://bit.ly/4chHzip.

It’s UPMC’s largest construction project ever and the largest current health care construction project in Pennsylvania. Now the new UPMC Presbyterian tower is one step closer to completion, as one of the final structural steel beams settled into place today on the top floor of the 17-story building. When construction completes in late 2026, the 1.2 million square foot project will house 636 private patient rooms, equipped with technological advances that support the exceptional experience of patients and staff. “Setting the last beam is a major milestone in the evolution of a building project,” said Sandy Rader, president, UPMC Presbyterian. “This patient care tower reflects our ongoing commitment to providing the best possible work environment for our staff and life-changing medicine for our patients.” https://lnkd.in/efPnJsPR

Sandy Miller is a wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, nurse, caregiver to two rescue dogs and two rescue cats, a UPMC employee, and a cancer patient. Being diagnosed with terminal cancer hasn't stopped Sandy from pursuing a full life. Her story is an inspiration during #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth. "Being diagnosed with terminal cancer did not stop my life. Instead, it enhanced how I see things, it gave me a chance to make time to do the things I always thought I was too busy for, and it reminded me that patience is a virtue (I needed this one). I have met some pretty amazing people along the way. I am busier than ever, and I embrace that; I never want to miss the important things or memories being made. Not every day is roses and rainbows, and believe me—there are dark days. But my mindset and determination have never let me down. I could spend all day telling you what and who I am thankful for: it takes a village of family and friends to keep me going. I have to stop and recognize my gratitude for UPMC. Even though I am no longer on the front lines of nursing, I remain steadfast in our members’ corner, upholding UPMC Health Plan’s mission of providing quality care. With 15 years of experience in the health plan industry, I was keenly aware of the forward-thinking approach that UPMC Health Plan promotes. Additionally, the prospect of having top-rated physicians and specialists as part of my health team motivated me to become a part of that professional world. I am thankful to not only receive treatment at the Hillman Cancer Center, but I am also thankful for my work network. The group I work alongside at UPMC Health Plan is an inspiration. The health plan as a whole promotes kindness in its culture, I witness it every day. Personally, I am the recipient of emails, texts, and messages just to ask how I am doing, they always seem to come at the right time. The act of kindness no matter the size goes a very long way. I am so thankful for my health care benefits, because, as you can imagine, the cost of cancer is not cheap. My immediate work family in UPMC Health Plan’s quality department is second to none, and my leaders have given me a lot of grace and understanding along the way. When you come out of the storm, you won’t be the same person who walked in. That’s what storms are all about. I know my life will never be 'normal', but I am rocking the 'abnormal' side of life and hopefully, with God’s grace, will continue to do so for a long while. I will end with a quote by Ann Davis that hangs in my office: 'Today is not a duty; it’s an honor. Today is not a challenge; it’s a chance. Today is not a race; it’s a gift.'”

UPMC leaders Chris Carmody (chief technology officer, UPMC), Dr. Rob Bart (chief medical information officer, UPMC), Aman Mahajan, MD, PhD, MBA (senior vice president, Health Innovation, UPMC Enterprises), and Srinivasan Suresh MD, MBA, FAAP (vice president, chief medical information officer, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh) will be featured speakers at Becker's Healthcare’s Health IT + Digital Health + RCM Conference. They will engage in discussions on medical technology, clinical informatics, diagnostics, and innovation. https://lnkd.in/e-8V56j2

Join the Institute for Precision Medicine for a virtual panel on how #AI is revolutionizing clinical trials. Experts from UPMC Enterprises, the University of Nebraska Medical Center, CSIRO’s Data 61, and Realyze Intelligence will discuss current applications, future opportunities, and challenges. Register now to learn about AI’s groundbreaking advancements in medical research. https://lnkd.in/expWHmvj

Verna Correll has been a dedicated volunteer at Easton Lycoming YMCA Physical Therapy for five years. Inspired by her own personal journey through physical therapy, she's passionate about giving back to the community. "After both knee replacement surgeries, the physical therapy staff members encouraged and pushed me to walking successfully and painlessly. Their kindness stayed with me until I retired." Verna enjoys helping patients feel more comfortable by offering friendly conversation, stocking linens, and assisting with various tasks. "I try to comfort or joke with the patients to help combat nerves or pain. I remember and empathize with them sometimes sharing my therapy experience." Beyond the YMCA, Verna's dedication extends to the James V. Brown Library and the Lycoming County SPCA. When she's not volunteering, you can find her traveling, reading, knitting, or baking. Her advice to potential volunteers? "Don’t sit at home feeling bored and old! Volunteering will make a difference for others and yourself!" Learn more about volunteering: https://lnkd.in/eAandi23

At UPMC, our team members are known for more than their job titles. Each day, they contribute their unique skills and expertise to their roles. But there’s more to their story! Our colleagues also explore their artistic, athletic, and creative passions. Whether they’re reigniting old hobbies or discovering new talents, our workplace is vibrant with creativity. Meet Christine Wnuk, manager, Enterprise Project Management Office, Corporate Services. Did you know that Christine is a freestyle rapper? That’s right! Christine has always had a passion for words, rhymes, and puns, and has been a writer and storyteller in various forms throughout her life. Her interest in freestyle rap was sparked when she discovered the musical Hamilton and learned that many of its stars were part of a freestyle rap group. At that time, the group had transitioned their physical school into an online program, allowing Christine to take a course on the basics of freestyle rap with people from all over the world. She says that while the work done at UPMC is meticulous and carefully planned, freestyle rap is the complete opposite. It has taught her to be present in the moment and to respond spontaneously to whatever comes her way.