August 2, 2002

What's Happening

MGH Chaplaincy volunteer program
The MGH Pastoral Visitor Program, sponsored by the MGH Chaplaincy, will begin Sept. 17 and will last until May 2003. The program trains volunteers in the necessary skills of pastoral visitation. Pastoral visitors are required to commit to at least four hours per week and to attend a weekly class Tuesdays, from 1 to 2 pm. Volunteers also must designate a minimum of three hours a week to patient visitation. Applications can be submitted through the MGH Chaplaincy or the MGH Volunteer Office. For more information about this program, contact the Chaplaincy at (617) 726-2220 or the Volunteer Office at (617) 726-8540.

Clinical trials course offered
The Education Unit of the Clinical Research Program (CRP) and the MGH Cancer Center will offer a course called "Design and Conduct of Clinical Trials" every Monday and Thursday in September and October, from 5 to 6:15 pm in the Haber Conference Room. The course is geared toward second-year fellows and junior faculty. The cost of the course is $200. Enrollment is limited, and registration is required. For more information, visit http://crnet.mgh.harvard.edu or call the CRP at (617) 726-1669.

MGH Chelsea to participate in Latin American Festival
The MGH Chelsea HealthCare Center will participate in the annual Chelsea Latin American Festival Aug. 3 and 4 at the Mystic Mall (across from the health center at 151 Everett Ave.). MGH Chelsea will host tables at the festival with educational information and will offer health screenings, raffles and other activities. For more information, call (617) 884-8300.

Nominations for PCS award
Nominations now are being accepted for the Anthony Kirvilaitis Jr. Partnership in Caring Award. The award recognizes Patient Care Services (PCS) staff in nonclinical roles who exemplify the values of reliability, responsiveness, creativity and flexibility. Any MGH nonclinician who is part of the PCS staff— including operations associates, operating room assistants and patient care coordinators—may be nominated by colleagues. All nominations must be received by Aug. 23. Awardees each will receive $1,500 and will be acknowledged at a ceremony and reception. For more information, contact Nancy DeCoste at (617) 724-8610.