Like all thriving health systems, UVA Health relies on teamwork to keep operations running smoothly and patients first in everything we do. Part of strong teamwork is appreciating each other’s roles and responsibilities that extend beyond our sometimes brief, daily interactions. Let’s get to know an important part of our team that is always on the move: Patient Transportation.
Every day, our team of 60 patient transporters puts in the steps (5-9 miles daily) to safely move patients and equipment from point A to B, C, and Z throughout our hospital. The team averages 345 patient transports and 400 equipment transports a day. Over a year, that adds up to more than 285,000 safe and timely transports! This keeps other care team members at the bedside, improving the experience and flow of our patients.
Every member of our Patient Transportation Team is American Heart Association Heartsaver CPR/AED certified, adding to the many skills that make them truly invaluable. These are compassionate team members who provide comfort and confidence to patients dealing with anxiety and discomfort due to illness or injury.
The role of patient transportation has evolved, just like so many other parts of healthcare. Far from the days of paper assignments and dispatchers, we now use Epic and mobile phones for streamlined communications. This team makes keeping the flow of patients and equipment look easy from admission to discharge — even in the most challenging moments.
I am so grateful for this team's crucial role in advancing our mission as we work together as one UVA Health team. The next time a transporter rolls by, take a moment to say hi and thank them for being an important part of the team! If you know anyone interested in joining the Patient Transportation Team, please visit the UVA Health Support Staff website.
Take care and be well,
Wendy