Updates Archive

The following updates were made prior to January 1, 2021.

 

December 30, 2020

 

December 17, 2020

 

December 16, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

Dear UCSF Community,

As COVID-19 infections continue to accelerate, your actions can help keep your family, friends, colleagues and those we serve safe as we celebrate the holiday season. As we welcome the start of the vaccine roll-out, remember that a vaccine is not a cure and it is important that we all continue to wear a mask, physically distance, wash our hands, and avoid unnecessary travel and gatherings. To stay informed, please review the following COVID-related updates:

1. Final 2020 Town Hall to Focus on Vaccines – NEW

Join Chancellor Sam Hawgood and other UCSF leaders on Friday, Dec. 18, at 4:00 p.m. via Zoom for an update on UCSF’s COVID-19 vaccine distribution efforts, COVID-19 testing and the latest pandemic news. Recordings of all COVID-19 Town Halls are posted online.

2. Vaccine Distribution Update – NEW

UCSF received its first shipment of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine today and has begun immunizing frontline workers as part of a multi-phased vaccine roll-out guided by public health priorities. More information and FAQs about UCSF’s vaccination program are available on the COVID-19 Vaccine Information Hub.

3. Final 2020 Dept. of Medicine Grand Rounds – NEW

Join Department of Medicine Chair Bob Wachter on Thursday, Dec. 17, at noon via Zoom as he chats with former CDC Director and UCSF adjunct faculty member Julie Gerberding. Stanford University’s David Studdert will discuss the ethics of “immunity passports.” Also hear the latest on UCSF’s COVID-19 vaccine distribution efforts. Recordings of previous Grand Rounds are available through the Department of Medicine website.

4. California COVID Notify Available Statewide – NEW

CA COVID Notify, the state’s smartphone-based COVID-19 exposure notification system, is now available to all Californians. Visit the COVID Notify landing page for more information about the privacy-protected technology first piloted at UCSF. Please note that iPhone users who participated in the CA COVID Notify pilot must upgrade to the latest version of iOS in order to continue using the system.

5. Finance Road Show Available Online – NEW

UCSF leaders presented an in-depth overview of UCSF and UCSF Health’s $8 billion budget in the wake of COVID-19 as well as a 10-year outlook on its finances during a virtual road show on Dec. 11, 2020. A recording of that presentation is available for viewing online (MyAccess login required).

6. Holiday Travel and Testing Policy – REMINDER

UCSF strongly recommends that members of our community avoid all non-essential personal travel during the holiday season in order to help curb the concerning acceleration of infection. Anyone who must travel is advised to follow UCSF’s travel guidance. UCSF offers asymptomatic COVID-19 testing to those returning from travel or concerned about a possible COVID-19 exposure. Updated information about how to get tested is available on the UCSF COVID-19 testing webpage.

7. COVID-19 Financial Relief Programs Paused – REMINDER

The application window for the second round of COVID-19 Relief Programs for UCSF and Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland employees and students has come to a close. We are pleased that the second round of funding will be fully distributed to our community, and we will open another round of applications if additional resources become available. Those who are in a position to donate are encouraged to do so on the UCSF Qualified Disaster Relief Fund website.

8. Stay-at-Home Order in Effect Through Jan. 4, 2021 – REMINDER

Due to the ongoing surge in COVID-19 cases, Bay Area public health officers have implemented a regional stay-at-home order that lasts until Jan. 4, 2021. The order has had minimal impact on UCSF operations thus far, but it may affect holiday plans and access to non-essential resources in the region. UCSF will monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.

9. Visitor and Events Policy Update – REMINDER

Non-essential visitors and events will not be allowed on campus until Jan. 4, 2021, due to the stay-at-home order in effect throughout the Bay Area. Essential visits and events must receive advance approval in writing. UCSF’s complete visitor and events policies are available online.

Please visit the UCSF COVID-19 website for more information. If you have questions, please contact UCSF Emergency Management. You can also sign up to receive text alerts about the latest UCSF news by texting “UCSF” to 333 111.

Thank you for your continued dedication to safeguarding the health and well-being of the UCSF community and those we serve.

 

December 15, 2020

 

December 11, 2020

 

December 10, 2020

 

December 5, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

Dear UCSF Community,

Friday’s announcement by Bay Area health officers to implement the State’s Regional Stay-At-Home Order starting on Sunday, Dec. 6 in San Francisco, will have minimal impact to UCSF’s operations, including research, which continues to operate at reduced density due to the pandemic.

The Bay Area health officers said they are proactively imposing the stay-at-home order to close all sectors other than retail and essential operations beginning this weekend rather than waiting until the region’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) bed capacity drops below 15 percent, the trigger Gov. Gavin Newsom announced on Dec. 3.

This new stay-at-home order will take effect in Contra Costa, Santa Clara, and San Francisco counties and the city of Berkeley on Sunday, Dec. 6. It will take effect in Alameda county on Monday, Dec. 7 and in Marin county on Tuesday, Dec. 8. These restrictions will remain in effect until January 4, 2021.

Here’s what you should know about how the order affects UCSF’s operations:

Work From Home: UCSF continues to ask that all employees who can work from home continue to do so in order to limit on-site activities in accordance with the new order.

Research: UCSF’s research enterprise already has been scaled back due to the pandemic, operating at 25 percent capacity for clinical research and 50 percent for non-clinical, lab research. COVID-19-focused research and non-COVID-19 research may continue without additional restrictions. These reduced research density levels will remain the same until further notice. Please continue to follow UCSF’s research safety practices outlined here.

Campus Life Services: SF Kebab, the eatery at the Mission Bay campus, will discontinue outdoor dining and will be open for take-out orders only. Both Bakar and Millberry Fitness Centers and the UCSF Library have already closed until further notice. Shuttle service will continue to operate at 25 percent capacity.

Health Care: Scheduled elective procedures will continue as planned and appointments have not been cancelled at this time. Hospital capacity will be closely monitored and any changes to health care operations will be based on the UCSF Health surge plan.

Education: All didactic and discussion-based courses for all programs will continue to run remotely. Health professions students will continue to participate in clinical placements and rotations and in essential on-campus activities as directed by their programs; they will be notified by their programs if there are any changes to those schedules. Graduate students who need to be physically present in their labs will continue to be included in the 50 percent maximum capacity; those who can do their research from home should continue to do so.

As the pandemic continues to surge in California, teams across UCSF will monitor the situation daily and make adjustments as needed, so please stay tuned to all COVID-19 announcements and updates posted on the UCSF coronavirus website.

As members of the UCSF community, we bear a special responsibility to serve as role models during this pandemic. As COVID-19 cases continue to rise, please remember to mask up, physically distance and follow all public health guidelines to help keep our community, our loved ones and those we serve safe during these challenging times.

 

December 3, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

Dear UCSF Community,

As we enter the final month of 2020 with COVID-19 cases continuing to climb, we urge all members of the UCSF community to mask up, physically distance, wash hands, and stay home as much as possible. Here are the latest COVID-related updates:

1. Friday Town Hall on COVID Surge, Testing and Vaccination Plan – NEW

Join Chancellor Sam Hawgood and other UCSF leaders tomorrow, Dec. 4, at 4:00 p.m. via Zoom for an update on the COVID-19 pandemic both globally and locally. Experts will discuss increasing numbers of COVID-positive cases in the UCSF community, how you can prevent further transmission and will report on a new asymptomatic testing program for employees and students and share updated plans on UCSF’s distribution of the vaccines. Recordings of all COVID-19 Town Halls are posted online.

2. COVID-19 Testing For Returning Travelers – NEW

UCSF is offering COVID-19 testing to asymptomatic employees and students who are resuming on-site activities after travel. Information about how to get tested is available on the UCSF COVID-19 testing website. You can read more about expanded access to COVID-19 testing at the UCSF News Center.

3. COVID-19 Financial Relief Programs – NEW

The UCSF COVID-19 Relief Program for Employees will reopen for applications starting Monday, Dec. 7, 2020. The program provides tax-free grants of up to $1,000 to eligible UCSF employees who are facing financial hardship due to the pandemic. Please visit the program website for more information about eligibility, qualifying expenses and how to apply, as well as information about how those who are able can donate to the relief fund to help others in need. Similar programs have also been established for UCSF students and BCH Oakland employees.

4. COVID-19 Vaccine FAQs – NEW

UCSF is one of seven sites in California to receive approval for early distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer. For answers to vaccine-related questions, please visit the new UCSF COVID-19 vaccine FAQs, which will be updated as more information becomes available. Learn more about UCSF’s plans for distributing the vaccines at the town hall tomorrow.

5. Spot Checks for Health Screening Compliance – NEW

As the pandemic continues, UCSF will conduct spot checks at various UCSF locations to ensure that all onsite employees and learners have completed the daily health screening, which is required to curb transmission of the virus as part of UCSF’s campus access protocols.

Please visit the UCSF COVID-19 website for more information. If you have questions, please contact UCSF Emergency Management. You can also sign up to receive text alerts about the latest UCSF news by texting “UCSF” to 333 111.

Thank you for your continued dedication to safeguarding the health and well-being of the UCSF community and those we serve.

 

December 3, 2020

 

December 2, 2020

 

November 28, 2020

 

November 25, 2020

 

November 20, 2020

 

November 19, 2020

 

November 18, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

Dear UCSF Community,

As the nation grapples with an accelerating increase in new COVID-19 cases, UCSF continues to refine its guidelines based on changing public health orders.

We urge all members of the UCSF community to check the UCSF COVID-19 website regularly for the latest updates on UCSF policies and guidelines.

To protect yourself and others, please mask up, physically distance, avoid non-essential travel, and take note of the following COVID-related updates:

1. COVID-19 Paid Leave Extension – NEW

UC President Drake has extended the deadline for employees to use COVID-19 Paid Administrative Leave (PAL). Employees now have until June 30, 2021 to use their allotment of up to 128 hours of PAL. More information on COVID-related leave is available online.

2. Friday Town Halls to Cover COVID Surge and UCSF Finances – NEW

Join UCSF Chancellor Sam Hawgood and other leaders as they discuss the latest on COVID-19-related news and information.

  • On Friday, Nov. 20, at 4:00 p.m. via Zoom, UCSF experts will discuss the current nationwide surge in COVID-19 cases, UCSF’s response, news about vaccines, and tips for staying safe during the holidays.
  • On Friday, Dec. 4, at 4:00 p.m. via Zoom, UCSF leadership will discuss the pandemic’s impact on UCSF’s financial health. Experts will also provide the latest updates on the pandemic.
  • Recordings of all COVID-19 Town Halls are posted online.

3. COVID-19 Testing at UCSF – NEW

UCSF has created a webpage that describes UCSF’s symptomatic and random asymptomatic testing programs for onsite employees and learners. The new webpage also details UCSF policy for reporting a positive COVID-19 diagnosis.

4. California COVID Notify Expansion – NEW

The CA COVID Notify pilot, which is testing the state’s smartphone-based COVID-19 exposure notification system, has been expanded to five additional UC campuses. The state launched a new COVID Notify landing page with information for participants at all pilot locations. Please note that iPhone users must upgrade to iOS 14.2 and enable exposure notifications in order to continue using CA COVID Notify. Instructions are available on the new landing page.

5. COVID-19 Vaccine Planning at UCSF – NEW

UCSF is monitoring the COVID-19 vaccine landscape after Pfizer and Moderna announced that their vaccines were found to be 95% and 94.5% effective in human trials, respectively. As one of seven hospitals in California chosen for early distribution of the Pfizer vaccine, UCSF has assembled a task force of experts to work with state public health officials and plan for early vaccine distribution at UCSF. Early distribution of the Pfizer vaccine is anticipated by December 2020. Frontline care workers who are treating COVID-19 patients and high-risk groups will be prioritized. Vaccines for the general public are expected in Spring 2021.

6. UCSF Faculty Named to Biden-Harris COVID-19 Advisory Board – NEW

Three UCSF faculty members have been appointed to the 13-person COVID-19 advisory board that was established by President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris. More information about their selection is available at the UCSF News Center.

7. Celebrating Holidays During the Pandemic – NEW

UCSF experts have provided helpful holiday advice to encourage everyone to take simple steps to help minimize the risk of spreading of COVID-19 during the holiday season. In addition, UCSF will issue a holiday travel guidance for all employees and students later this week.

Please visit the UCSF COVID-19 website for more information. If you have questions, please contact UCSF Emergency Management. You can also sign up to receive text alerts about the latest UCSF news by texting “UCSF” to 333 111.

Thank you for your continued dedication to safeguarding the health and well-being of the UCSF community and those we serve.

 

November 16, 2020

 

November 4, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

Dear UCSF Community,

As UCSF continues to monitor the unfolding national events of the 2020 election and a surge in the coronavirus pandemic, please note the following updates and reminders:

1. COVID-19 Town Hall to Include Post-Election Discussion – NEW

Join us this Friday, Nov. 6, at 4 p.m. via Zoom to learn the latest about the COVID-19 pandemic, how UCSF is responding to cases in our community, and to hear an overview of the 2020 national and state elections and their potential impact on UCSF.

Recordings of all COVID-19 Town Halls are posted online within 24 hours of each event.

2. Asymptomatic COVID-19 Testing at UCSF – NEW

UCSF Occupational Health Services (OHS) has launched the COVID Asymptomatic Testing Program (ATP) program to help monitor and prevent the spread of COVID-19 at UCSF. Each week, a randomly selected group of faculty, staff and students who work or learn onsite will receive an email inviting them to register for voluntary asymptomatic testing. Volunteers will receive a follow-up call from OHS to schedule a time to submit a self-administered nasal swab for testing at one of UCSF’s onsite screening locations at the Mission Bay, Parnassus Heights or Mount Zion campuses. ATP supplements the universal testing already in place for onsite workers and learners who have COVID-19 symptoms or may have been exposed to the virus.

3. Revised Travel Guidance – NEW

UCSF has made significant updates to the university-wide travel policies that were enacted in response to COVID-19. Please visit the travel guidance website to learn more about UCSF-sponsored travel, travel restrictions and actions that all UCSF community members must take when returning to UCSF after domestic or international travel.

4. COVID-19 on the UCSF Mobile App – NEW

The UCSF Mobile app has been updated to include a COVID-19 section that provides users with quick links to UCSF COVID-19 resources, mandatory daily health screening tools, campus protocols, and more. Instructions for downloading the UCSF Mobile app are available online.

5. UCSF State of the University Recording – NEW

In case you missed it, a recording of the annual UCSF State of the University address is available online. In the address, Chancellor Hawgood and members of the UCSF community highlight the extraordinary actions taken by our community in response to the dual pandemics of COVID-19 and systemic racism.

6. UCSF COVID-19 Dashboard – REMINDER

The UCSF COVID-19 Dashboard provides the UCSF community with information about COVID-19 testing and positive cases at UCSF. The interactive dashboard is updated regularly and includes:

  • Tallies of the total number of students, faculty, clinical and administrative employees who have tested positive since the pandemic’s start.
  • Recent trends in symptomatic and asymptomatic COVID-19 testing at UCSF.
  • A list of UCSF buildings recently accessed by someone who later received a positive diagnosis, along with the dates when the buildings were accessed.

Please visit the UCSF COVID-19 website for more information. If you have questions, please contact UCSF Emergency Management. You can also sign up to receive text alerts about the latest UCSF news by texting “UCSF” to 333 111.

Thank you for your continued dedication to safeguarding the health and well-being of the UCSF community and those we serve.

 

October 29, 2020

 

October 21, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

Dear UCSF Community,

As UCSF continues to manage the coronavirus pandemic and prepare for what’s ahead, please note the following updates and reminders:

1. UCSF COVID-19 Positive Cases Dashboard – NEW

The new UCSF COVID-19 Enterprise Dashboard will provide the UCSF community with information about COVID-19 testing and positive cases at UCSF. The interactive dashboard will incorporate regularly updated testing data and includes:

  • Tallies of the total number of students, faculty, clinical and administrative employees who have tested positive since the pandemic’s start.
  • Recent trends in symptomatic and asymptomatic COVID-19 testing at UCSF.
  • A list of UCSF buildings recently accessed by someone who later received a positive diagnosis, along with the dates when the buildings were accessed.

2. New Health Screening Process for Vendors and Campus Guests – NEW

Vendors and approved campus guests will be required to follow a new health screening process prior to visiting UCSF. New steps include:

3. COVID-19 Town Hall to Focus on Vaccines – NEW

Join UCSF experts on Friday, Oct. 23, at 4 p.m. via Zoom to learn the latest about COVID-19 vaccines. UCSF scientists and clinicians will discuss the science behind vaccines, the current state of the vaccine landscape, and plans for distributing vaccines to the UCSF community once they become available. Experts will also discuss the current state of the pandemic globally and here at UCSF.

Recordings of COVID-19 Town Halls are posted online within 24 hours of each event.

4. Last Call to Get Flu Shots Before Nov. 1 – FINAL REMINDER

The deadline to get your flu shot before Nov. 1 is fast approaching. Occupational Health Services (OHS) has added more drop-in flu shot clinics for your convenience. You can also get your flu shot from any OHS clinic during regular business hours.

If you need to apply for an exemption or accommodation, please do so soon. Exemptions must be approved and registered by Nov. 1. If you received your flu shot from your primary care provider, pharmacist or another outside source, please send documentation of your flu shot to [email protected]. Further guidance is available in the Employee FAQs and the OHS flu vaccination page.

5. UCSF State of the University Address – REMINDER

Join UCSF Chancellor Sam Hawgood for the annual State of the University address on Friday, Oct. 30, at noon via Zoom. In his address, titled "Resolve and Resilience," Chancellor Hawgood will reflect on UCSF’s leadership on COVID-19 and our response to racial injustice. He will also address how UCSF can overcome our immediate challenges and realize our long-term ambitions.

6. Sign Up for California COVID Notify – REMINDER

UCSF is piloting CA COVID Notify, a smartphone-based system that sends users an alert if they’ve had a possible high-risk exposure to COVID-19. The pilot is voluntary and users can opt in or out at any time. Personal information, location data and user identities are never collected or shared. Visit the COVID Notify website to learn more.

Please visit the UCSF COVID-19 website for more information. If you have questions, please contact UCSF Emergency Management. You can also sign up to receive text alerts about the latest UCSF news by texting “UCSF” to 333 111.

Thank you for your continued dedication to safeguarding the health and well-being of the UCSF community and those we serve.

October 7, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

Dear UCSF Community,

Please note the following updates and reminders:

1. State of the University Address on Oct. 30 – NEW

Join UCSF Chancellor Sam Hawgood for the annual State of the University address on Friday, Oct. 30, at noon via Zoom. In his address entitled "Resolve and Resilience," Chancellor Hawgood will reflect on UCSF’s leadership on COVID-19 and response to racial injustice, and what we must do to overcome our immediate challenges and realize our long-term ambitions.

2. Fitness and Recreation Centers to Reopen – NEW

The Bakar and Millberry Union fitness centers will reopen to UCSF students and employees starting on Monday, Nov. 2. Information about services available, those that remain closed and new safety procedures is available online.

3. Friday Town Hall with UC President Michael Drake – REMINDER

Join Chancellor Sam Hawgood and UCSF Health President and CEO Mark Laret for a conversation with UC President Michael Drake and UC Health Executive Vice President Carrie Byington on Friday, Oct. 9, at 4 p.m. via Zoom. Topics will include UC’s COVID-19 response, financial health, efforts to promote social justice and health equity, and more.

Recordings of COVID-19 Town Halls are posted online within 24 hours of each event.

4. Anti-Racism Town Hall to Focus on Staff – REMINDER

Please join UCSF leaders and your colleagues for the second quarterly town hall meeting focusing on UCSF’s Anti-Racism Initiative on Friday, Oct. 16, at noon via Zoom. This forum will address efforts to expand recruitment, increase advancement opportunities, and achieve equity for staff.

5. California COVID Notify at UCSF – REMINDER

UCSF is piloting CA COVID Notify, a smartphone-based system that sends users an alert if they’ve had a possible high-risk exposure to COVID-19. The pilot is voluntary and users can opt in or out at any time. Personal information, location data and user identities are never collected or shared. Visit the COVID Notify website to learn more.

6. Flu Shots Required Before Nov. 1 – REMINDER 

UC President Drake issued an updated executive order requiring all faculty, staff and students to have a flu vaccine or approved exemption before Nov. 1, 2020, to retain access to UC facilities. Visit the UCSF Flu Vaccination Policywebsite to learn how to get your flu shot.

7. Reopening Education Safely – REMINDER

The UCSF Collaborative to Advise on Reopening Education Safely (CARES) works with education and public health officials to promote the safe reopening of schools during COVID-19. Visit the program website to learn more about CARES and UCSF’s efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in schools.

Please visit the UCSF COVID-19 website for more information. If you have questions, please contact UCSF Emergency Management. You can also sign up to receive text alerts about the latest UCSF news by texting “UCSF” to 333 111.

Thank you for your continued dedication to safeguarding the health and well-being of the UCSF community and those we serve.

September 30, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

Dear UCSF Community,

Please take note of the following updates and reminders:

1. California COVID Notify at UCSF – NEW

Starting today, Sept. 30, UCSF will begin piloting CA COVID Notify, the State of California’s smartphone-based system that sends users an alert if they’ve had a possible high-risk exposure to COVID-19. The pilot program is entirely voluntary and users can choose to opt in or out at any time. Users’ personal information and location data is never collected or shared, and user identities are strictly confidential. To learn more about the pilot program, eligibility requirements and how to enable CA COVID Notify on your smartphone, visit UCSF’s CA COVID Notify website. 

2. Town Hall with UC President Michael Drake – NEW

Join Chancellor Sam Hawgood and Mark Laret, President and CEO of UCSF Health, for a wide-ranging conversation with UC President Michael Drake and UC Health Executive Vice President Carrie Byington on Friday, Oct. 9 at 4 p.m. via Zoom. Topics include the UC system’s COVID-19 response, UC-wide financial health, how UC is promoting social justice and health equity, UC-wide voting advocacy efforts, security issues and more.

Please note that recordings of all previous COVID-19 Response Town Halls are available online. Recordings are posted within 24 hours of each town hall. 

3. Anti-Racism Town Hall to Focus on Staff – NEW

Please join UCSF leaders and your colleagues for the second quarterly town hall meeting focusing on UCSF’s Anti-Racism Initiative on Friday, Oct. 16 at noon via Zoom. This forum will address racism’s impact on staff. We will discuss current efforts to expand recruitment, increase advancement opportunities, achieve equity, and improve the lived experience of UCSF for staff.

4. Paid Time Off Accrual Policy Extended – NEW

UC Office of the President has approved a temporary extension to the four-month grace period for vacation leave/paid time off accrual maximums. Policy-covered staff that are approaching their accrual maximum will not need to submit individual requests and will continue to accrue for future accrual cycles above their maximum without losing hours for four months. More information is available online.

5. Flu Has Arrived: Get Your Flu Shot Before Nov. 1 – REMINDER 

UCSF is aiming for universal flu vaccination of all faculty, staff and learners this fall. Employees and learners are encouraged to get flu shots to protect themselves and others from seasonal influenza. Please help reduce the anticipated double burden on our health care providers and system during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a reminder, UC Office of the President issued an executive order requiring faculty, staff and learners to have a flu vaccine or an approved exemption before Nov. 1, 2020, to retain access to UC facilities. Learn more about the order and how to get your vaccine.

6. Emergency Catastrophic Leave Donation Program – REMINDER

The Emergency Voluntary Catastrophic Leave Sharing Program supports employees across UCSF who are unable to work due to COVID-19. Visit the COVID-19 website to learn more about receiving donated PTO or to donate to colleagues in need.

Please visit the UCSF COVID-19 website for more information. If you have questions, please contact UCSF Emergency Management. You can also sign up to receive text alerts about the latest UCSF news by texting “UCSF” to 333 111.

Thank you for your continued dedication to safeguarding the health and well-being of the UCSF community and those we serve.

 

September 23, 2020

 

September 21, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

Please take note of the following updates and reminders:

1. Support Those in Need of COVID-19 Financial Relief – NEW 

Due to overwhelming demand, funds available for the UCSF COVID-19 Relief Program have been exhausted at this time. To help relaunch the program — which provides tax-free grants of up to $1,000 to UCSF employees who are facing financial hardship due to the pandemic — members of the UCSF community are encouraged to give to the UCSF COVID-19 Qualified Disaster Relief Fund. Please visit the fund website to donate today.

2. COVID-19 Exposure Notification Technology – NEW 

UCSF scientists have launched Covidseeker, a study that invites the public to contribute the location data that Google collects from their mobile devices as part of an effort to improve contact tracing and help scientists understand how COVID-19 spreads. Learn more about Covidseeker on the UCSF news site. 

3. COVID-19 Exposure Notification Committee – NEW 

UCSF has established a new COVID-19 exposure notification committee charged with establishing a positive case notification protocol and a communications plan to keep the UCSF community informed about positive cases on campus. The committee will make recommendations to the Chancellor’s Executive Team later this month. To share your thoughts or suggestions with the committee, please send them to Jon Giacomi, UCSF COVID-19 Recovery Operations Director, at [email protected] or call 415-476-6528. More news and information will be posted on the UCSF COVID-19 website. 

4. Eating and Drinking Safely at UCSF During COVID-19 – NEW 

UCSF has launched a campaign to remind the UCSF community of precautions that faculty, staff and learners must take to eat and drink safely onsite during the pandemic. More information is available on the COVID-19 safe dining website. 

5. Flu Has Arrived: Get Your Flu Shot by Nov. 1 – REMINDER 

Join Chancellor Sam Hawgood and others across UCSF who are getting their flu shots to protect themselves and others from seasonal influenza. Please help reduce the anticipated double burden on our health care providers and health care system during the COVID-19 pandemic. Join our social media campaign by posting a photo of yourself getting the flu shot or just show your post-shot bandage with the hashtag #FightFluUCSF. As a reminder, UC Office of the President has issued an executive order that requires all members of the UC community to receive a flu vaccine before Nov. 1, 2020. More information on times and locations of flu shot clinics are on the UCSF Occupational Health Services website.  

6. UCSF COVID-19 Response Town Hall – REMINDER 

Join UCSF leadership on Friday, Sep. 25 at 4 p.m. via Zoom to hear the latest updates on COVID-19 and UCSF’s response to the pandemic. Child and Dependent Care Task Force Co-Chairs Elizabeth Ozer, professor of pediatrics, and Laura Ishkanian, associate director of Family Services, will provide an overview of the results of the child and dependent care survey. Chief Learning Officer Nancy Duranteau will discuss the results of the Your Voice Counts survey. All three will discuss how UCSF is working to understand and respond to the needs of the UCSF community during COVID-19.

Please visit the UCSF COVID-19 website for more information. If you have questions, please contact UCSF Emergency Management. You can also sign up to receive text alerts about the latest UCSF news by texting “UCSF” to 333 111.

Thank you for your continued dedication to safeguarding the health and well-being of the UCSF community and those we serve.

September 3, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

Please note the following news updates and useful reminders:

1. COVID-19 Financial Relief Programs for Employees and Students - NEW

The newly established UCSF COVID-19 Relief Program will provide tax-free grants of up to $1,000 to UCSF employees who are facing financial hardship due to the pandemic. Please visit the program website for more information about eligibility, qualifying expenses and how to apply. A similar program is available to UCSF students seeking financial assistance for qualifying expenses resulting from COVID-19.

2. Work-From-Home Guidance Extended Through June 30, 2021 - NEW 

UCSF is extending its work-from-home guidance from Jan. 18, 2021 to June 30, 2021 for employees who can perform their University duties remotely. Employees who find it challenging to telework may request approval to work onsite from their manager. More information about the telework extension is available online.

3. Telework Toolkit - NEW

UCSF has created a telework toolkit to assist those who are working or studying remotely. More information about the toolkit is available online.

4. UCSF Principles of Community - NEW

University leadership recently approved the UCSF Principles of Community in Response to COVID-19 to remind members of the UCSF community of our shared responsibility to each other and those we serve during the pandemic to follow public health orders. All members of the UCSF community are encouraged to review and practice these principles.

5. COVID-19 Expense Reimbursement Guidelines - NEW

UCSF Finance has released new COVID-19 pandemic expense reimbursement guidelines, which cover commute expenses, working from home, quarantine-related costs, supplies and equipment and child care. Read more about these reimbursement guidelines here.

6. UC-Wide Flu Vaccine Requirement - REMINDER 

UCSF will start providing influenza vaccines through campus flu shot clinics on Tuesday, Sept. 8, to enable all members of our community to be vaccinated by Nov. 1, 2020, in compliance with the Office of the President's executive order. Flu shots are especially important this year to help reduce the anticipated burden on our health care providers and health system during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please visit the UCSF Occupational Health Services website for more information, including flu shot clinic dates and locations. 

7. UCSF COVID-19 Response Town Hall - REMINDER 

Join UCSF leadership on Friday, Sept. 11 at 4 p.m. via Zoom to hear the latest updates on COVID-19 and UCSF’s response to the pandemic. Health experts will also discuss ways to maintain mental and physical well-being while shelter-in-place guidelines remain in effect.

Please visit the UCSF COVID-19 website for more information. If you have questions, please contact UCSF Emergency Management. You can also sign up to receive text alerts about the latest UCSF news by texting “UCSF” to 333 111.

We appreciate your continued dedication to safeguarding the health and well-being of the UCSF community and those we serve.

 

September 1, 2020

 

August 20, 2020

 

August 19, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

As our COVID-19 recovery and resilience efforts continue, we are now confronting the added challenges of an unpredictable flu and wildfire season.

To help you navigate the changing landscape, we are providing you with some important updates—including mandatory actions—that affect the entire UCSF community:

1. Changes to Employee Daily Health Screening: MANDATORY

We are temporarily pausing use of the quick health screener—beginning today, all employees must use the original screener, which will take 60 to 90 seconds to answer all questions. Please consider this additional timing in your preparations before coming to work.

Note for West Bay employees only:

If you have new symptoms, or symptoms that have changed in the past 10 days due to allergies or pre-existing conditions, testing for COVID-19 is recommended. To schedule your test, please call UCSF Occupational Health Services (OHS) or Student Health and Counseling Services (SHCS) and tell them the code “ALLERGIES.” You are cleared to work while awaiting test results.

  • UCSF Employees call the OHS Coronavirus Hotline at 415-514-7328
  • UCSF Students call SHCS at 415-476-8736

As a reminder, do not come to work sick, even if you are experiencing mild symptoms. Please err on the side of caution. If you have questions about sick leave, etc., check here or talk with your manager.

2. UC-Wide Flu Vaccine Requirement: MANDATORY

UC President Janet Napolitano has issued an executive order that requires all members of the UC community to receive a flu vaccine before Nov. 1, 2020, to help protect the UC community and reduce potential burdens on the health care system this flu season. In the coming weeks, UCSF will provide additional guidance, including information on where to get flu shots and what exemptions are permitted.

3. Bay Area Wildfires: NEW

Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a statewide emergency to help ensure the availability of resources to combat the wildfires burning across California. Newsom is urging the UC community to reduce energy demands from 3 to 10 p.m.

A Spare the Air alert has been issued warning Bay Area communities about unhealthy air quality resulting from active wildfires. UCSF emergency management teams are monitoring and assessing the situation for impacts on air quality to help protect the safety and security of employees, learners, patients and the public. More information about UCSF’s wildfire and air quality response will be updated as soon as possible.

4. Friday COVID-19 Response Town Hall: UPDATE

Join Chancellor Sam Hawgood, epidemiologist George Rutherford, and others for a discussion about coronavirus-related translational and clinical research, as well as the new UC-wide flu vaccine requirement on Friday, Aug. 21 at 4 p.m.

5. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi Event: UPDATE

Join Chancellor Sam Hawgood and special guest, Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi, in a conversation about the global pandemic on Tuesday, Aug. 25 at 10 a.m.

6. Your Voice Counts Survey Closes Today: REMINDER

All staff, faculty and learners are encouraged to complete a brief survey on the topics of COVID-19, racial injustice and UCSF’s financial health. The goal of the survey is to capture perspectives from across UCSF to help leadership assess what changes should be made as campus and UCSF Health navigate a year full of significant and unanticipated challenges. Please note that the survey closes today, Wednesday, Aug. 19.

7. Child Care and Dependents Survey Closes Aug. 25: REMINDER

To support UCSF’s working parents and caregivers, Chancellor Hawgood and the Child and Dependent Care Task Force encourage parents and other caregivers to fill out this brief survey, which will be used to develop recommendations for child and dependent care support throughout the pandemic and recovery effort. The survey will remain open through Tuesday, Aug. 25.

Please visit the UCSF COVID-19 website for more information. If you have questions, please contact UCSF Emergency Management. You can also sign up to receive text alerts about the latest UCSF news by texting “UCSF” to 333 111.

We appreciate your continued dedication to safeguarding the health and well-being of the UCSF community and those we serve.

 

August 14, 2020

 

July 23, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

As UCSF’s recovery and resilience efforts continue, here are some important updates and reminders:

1.  NEW: Asymptomatic Testing for Onsite Personnel

This week, UCSF begins voluntary asymptomatic testing for employees, trainees, and students who work onsite, to detect and quickly contain any spread of COVID-19 at UCSF sites.

  • The program is being piloted at the Precision Cancer Medicine Building at Mission Bay and may be extended to other UCSF sites in the near future.
  • Testing is voluntary and participants will be selected at random.
  • Participants will self-administer nasal swabs under the guidance of trained staff, and will receive test results as soon as they become available.
  • All data will be safeguarded, and no individually identifiable data will be shared publicly.
  • More information about UCSF’s Asymptomatic Testing Program is available online. 
2.  UPDATE: Friday Town Hall to Address COVID-19’s Impact on UCSF’s Finances

This Friday, July 24, the UCSF Health and Campus COVID-19 Response Town Hall will focus on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on UCSF's finances. Leadership will discuss our financial challenges and how UCSF is working to ensure our ability to fulfill our public mission. In addition, beginning this week, the Friday town halls will be held every other Friday at 4 p.m. (via Zoom) instead of every week.

3.  REMINDER: Mandatory Daily Health Screening

Daily health screenings are required of all UCSF faculty, staff, learners, contractors, visitors, and other affiliates who perform duties onsite. This applies to all UCSF Health and campus buildings, leased spaces, and outlying sites.

  • The health screening tool can be accessed online or by texting "Screen" to 83973 on your mobile device.
  • An online tutorial is available to help you navigate the health screening tool.
  • Health screenings should be completed each day before arriving to any campus location. Be prepared to show your health screening pass on your smartphone or provide a printed copy. 
  • You may complete your health screening when you arrive, if you’re unable to do so beforehand. Staff stationed at building entrances will be available to assist you.
  • Employees who do not pass the health screening will be referred to Occupational Health for a follow-up consultation. Students who do not pass the health screening will be referred to Student Health Services.
  • If you are ill or have any symptoms of or exposure to COVID-19, you must stay home.
  • Complete health screening guidelines for UCSF Health and campus are available online.
4.  REMINDER: Mandatory Face Coverings
  • Anyone on UCSF property—including buildings, leased space, grounds, labs, conference rooms, elevators, parking structures and shuttles—must wear a face covering at all times except when alone in a private office or personal vehicle. 
  • Face coverings must cover both nose and mouth, and should be worn while also maintaining an appropriate physical distance of at least six feet.
  • A surgical mask must be worn at all times in hospital and clinical settings in accordance with UCSF Health’s Universal Surgical Mask policy.
  • For those who cannot provide their own, face coverings are available at the health screening stations located throughout UCSF.
  • Complete face covering guidelines for UCSF Health and campus are available online.

Please see the protocols for working onsite and FAQ on the UCSF COVID-19 website for more information. If you have questions, please contact UCSF Emergency Management. You can also sign up to receive text alerts about the latest UCSF news by texting “UCSF” to 333 111.

We appreciate your continued dedication to safeguarding the health and well-being of the UCSF community and those we serve.

 

July 20, 2020

 

July 10, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

To address important issues that have arisen as part of our recovery efforts, we would like to make you aware of the updates below:

1.  Health Screening Enforcement Begins Monday

Starting Monday, July 13, UCSF will initiate a three-week campaign aimed at increasing compliance with thedaily health screenings that are required of all UCSF faculty, staff, learners, contractors, visitors, and other affiliates who perform duties onsite. This applies to all UCSF Health and campus buildings, leased spaces, and outlying sites. As part of this campaign:

  • Facilities Services staff will be stationed at randomly selected sites around UCSF to ensure that anyone entering a UCSF building has completed a health screening.
  • Health screenings should be completed each day before arriving. Be prepared to show your health screening pass on your smartphone or provide a printed copy.
  • You may complete your health screening when you arrive if you’re unable to do so beforehand. Staff stationed at building entrances will be available to assist you.
  • If you do not pass the health screening, you will be referred to Occupational Health for a follow-up consultation. You may not be onsite until Occupational Health has cleared you.
  • Remind your colleagues to complete the daily health screening by adding the attached image to your email signature. UCSF will also send out reminders via social media and other communications channels.

2.  UCSF Health and Campus COVID-19 Response Town Hall 

Please join UCSF’s COVID-19 virtual town hall via Zoom today at 4 p.m. to get the latest updates on the COVID-19 pandemic, hear from UCSF researchers leading the fight against the disease, and learn about the current state of UCSF’s recovery and resilience efforts.

For more information on UCSF policies and protocols, visit the UCSF COVID-19 website. If you have questions, please contact UCSF Emergency Management. You can also sign up to receive text alerts about the latest UCSF news by texting “UCSF” to 333 111.

Thank you again for doing your part to safeguard the health of the UCSF community and prevent the spread of COVID-19. We will provide additional updates as they become available.

 

June 19, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

In light of several recent developments, we want to make you aware of the following updates:

1.  New Statewide Face Covering Guidelines

To reduce the spread of COVID-19, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) released updated guidelines that mandate the use of a face covering in most settings outside the home, with limited exceptions. Though similar face covering policies are already in effect at UCSF and in San Francisco, please note that the new CDPH guidelines apply statewide.

2.  UCSF Face Covering and Mask Policies

  • A mandatory face covering policy is in effect at UCSF. Be aware that in certain instances, UCSF policy is more restrictive than state guidelines. Please remember that:
  • You must wear a face covering at all times on UCSF property. This includes all buildings, grounds, labs, conference rooms, elevators, parking structures and shuttles. 
  • A surgical mask must be worn at all times in all hospital and clinical settings in accordance with UCSF Health’s Universal Surgical Mask policy.
  • Face coverings must cover both nose and mouth, and should be worn while also maintaining an appropriate physical distance of at least six feet.
  • Face coverings are available at UCSF health screening stations for those who cannot provide their own.
  • Exceptions to this policy are listed in UCSF’s face covering guidelines.

3.  UCSF Travel Policy in Effect Until Further Notice

As a reminder, to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 from city to city and reduce the chances that UCSF travelers will be unable to return from abroad, UCSF has implemented policies and guidance related to travel. Check UCSF’s travel guidance for all the details about the restrictions on domestic and international trips.

4.  Today’s Town Hall Canceled

In observance of Juneteenth, which marks the end of slavery in the United States, and to further UCSF’s commitment in affirming that Black Lives Matter, the UCSF Health and Campus COVID-19 Town Hall scheduled for Friday, June 19 is canceled to allow the UCSF community time to reflect. Friday town halls will resume on June 26 at 4 p.m. In the meantime, we encourage the entire UCSF community to learn more about the history of Juneteenth.

5.  Town Hall Survey

Please complete a very short survey to help us make informed decisions about how to improve the town hall experience for all members of the UCSF community.

For more information on current policies and protocols, visit the UCSF COVID-19 website. If you have questions about COVID-19-related matters, please contact UCSF Emergency Management. Sign up to receive text alerts about the latest UCSF news by texting “UCSF” to 333 111. 

Thank you again for your continued efforts to safeguard the health of UCSF community and prevent the spread of COVID-19 in areas where you live. We will provide additional updates as they become available.

 

June 12, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

As UCSF continues its phased-in return to more onsite work, we would like to remind all faculty, staff, and learners of protocols and policies that are in place to ensure the health and safety of the UCSF community.

Here are a few important reminders and updates for personnel working onsite:

  1. Mandatory COVID-19 Training 
    • All UCSF affiliates are required to complete a short read-only training about the basic hazards of COVID-19 and methods in place to limit its transmission. 
    • The training—COVID-19 and Working Onsite at UCSF—is available in five languages and must be completed by June 30, 2020, through the UC Learning Center.
    • Completing this training does not mean that you have been cleared to be onsite. Anyone who can work remotely should continue to do so until provided with explicit approval to resume onsite activities. 
  2. Mandatory Daily Health Screening
    • Everyone onsite—including campus and UCSF Health faculty, staff, learners and affiliates—must pass a daily health screen to verify that they do not have COVID-19 symptoms or exposures that could put others at risk.
    • The health screening tool also can be accessed by texting "Screen" to 83973 on your mobile device or by going online.
    • Please review this online tutorial for the health screening tool.
    • Onsite vendors, visitors and others who cannot access the online screening tool must pass a verbal health screening at one of the health screening stations located at UCSF.
    • Complete health screening guidelines for campus and UCSF Health are available online.
  3. Mandatory Face Coverings
    • Anyone on UCSF property—including buildings, grounds, labs, conference rooms, elevators, parking structures and shuttles—must wear a face covering at all times except when alone in a private office or personal vehicle. 
    • Face coverings must cover both nose and mouth, and should be worn while also maintaining an appropriate physical distance of at least six feet.
    • A surgical mask must be worn at all times in hospital and clinical settings in accordance with UCSF Health’s Universal Surgical Mask policy.
    • For those who cannot provide their own, face coverings are available at the health screening stations at UCSF.
    • Complete face covering guidelines for campus and UCSF Health are available online.
  4. Building Access Guidelines
    • UCSF is implementing a single point of entry policy for most campus buildings, with building access limited to a single designated entrance. All other points of entry will be decommissioned. 
    • This policy does not affect emergency exits and will not delay entry into buildings by emergency responders.
    • While in a UCSF building, you must have your UCSF ID badge visible above the waist at all times and be able to show your badge and health screening clearance to security upon request.
  5. NEW: Onsite Vendors Policy

Online: For more information, please see the protocols for working onsite and FAQ on the UCSF COVID-19 website. If you have questions, please contact UCSF Emergency Management. You may also opt to receive text alerts for the latest news by texting “UCSF” to 333 111.

Town Halls: For the latest information about UCSF’s COVID-19 recovery efforts, please join UCSF leaders for a weekly town hall via Zoom every Friday from 4 to 5 p.m.

NEW: Town Halls Survey: In an effort to improve the town hall experience for members of the UCSF community, we invite you to complete a very short survey so we can make informed decisions about these town halls.

We appreciate your continued efforts to safeguard the health and well-being of the UCSF community and will provide additional updates as needed.

 

June 10, 2020

 

May 28, 2020

 

May 27, 2020

 

May 20, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

UCSF has begun a phased return to onsite work for some UCSF community members.

This will allow a limited number of faculty, staff, and learners who cannot work remotely to gradually resume onsite activities. Only those who have been told that they can return to campus should be doing so at this point. Everyone else who can work remotely should continue to do so.

Those who are returning to onsite activities must meet the following requirements:

  1. Pass an online health screen
    • UCSF faculty, staff, learners, affiliates, visitors, and vendors must pass an online health screen to verify that they do not have COVID-19 symptoms or exposures that would put others at risk for infection. Delivery people are exempt.
    • Please review this online tutorial for the health screening tool.
  2. Wear mandatory face coverings
    • Anyone on UCSF property, including buildings, grounds, labs, conference rooms, elevators, parking structures and shuttles must wear a face covering or mask at all times except when alone in a private office or personal vehicle. 
    • Face coverings must cover both nose and mouth, and they should be worn while also maintaining appropriate physical distance—at least six feet apart.
    • A surgical mask must be worn at all times in hospital and clinical settings in accordance with UCSF Health’s Universal Surgical Mask policy.
    • Complete face covering guidelines for campus and Health are available online.

In addition, those returning to onsite activities may want to review updates on:

For more information about the guidelines for returning to work safely, please see the UCSF COVID-19 website protocols for working onsite and FAQ. As we transition from COVID-19 response to recovery, please join UCSF leaders for weekly town hall meetings via Zoom every Friday from 4 to 5 p.m.

We deeply appreciate your continued efforts to ensure the health and well-being of our community and will continue to share updates as they become available.

 

May 19, 2020

 

May 14. 2020

 

May 11, 2020

 

May 1, 2020

 

April 17, 2020

  • San Francisco and six other Bay Area jurisdictions announced that, effective April 22, 2020, face coverings will be mandatory for everyone outside the home or outside a private vehicle.

 

April 16, 2020

  • UCSF held a virtual town hall for community members across San Francisco, with ZSFG and city leaders. Watch the event recording.

 

April 15, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

There have been several recent developments around UCSF’s COVID-19 response, and we want to make you aware of the following updates:

1.  Policy Update: Self-Reporting COVID-19 Test Results

In order to safeguard the health of the UCSF community and those we serve, UCSF is enacting a new policy aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Starting Wednesday, April 15, 2020, all UCSF affiliates who test positive or have previously tested positive for COVID-19 at an outside facility (e.g., Kaiser, Sutter) must self-report these results to the appropriate UCSF department, as outlined below.

  • Students must self-report positive test result to UCSF Student Health and Counseling Services by calling (415) 476-8736 or sending a secure message to the student health nurse.
  • Faculty, staff, trainees, and volunteers must self-report positive test result to UCSF Occupational Health Services (OHS) by calling the COVID-19 hotline at (415) 514-7328 or emailing [email protected].  
  • Anyone who provides services for UCSF on a contract basis (e.g., on-site vendors) are strongly encouraged, though not required, to disclose positive test results to OHS.
  • Occupants of UCSF housing with no official UCSF affiliation are strongly encouraged, though not required, to disclose positive test results to OHS.
  • Self-reporting positive test results to supervisors or advisors is not required.

This policy applies to all students and personnel at UCSF and UCSF Health, regardless of whether you are working on-site or remotely, paid or unpaid. It will remain in effect until further notice.

UCSF is committed to protecting your personal health information. All COVID-19 test results will be kept strictly confidential and used only for limited, health-related purposes, including contact tracing and other activities to address employee, student, and patient safety as directed by UCSF OHS and Infection Prevention Services. Test results will be kept only in the appropriate health records, separate from personnel files or student records.

Click here to learn more about the self-reporting policy. Questions about this policy can be addressed to UCSF OHS at (415) 514-7328 or [email protected].

2.  Work Resumes on Essential UCSF Construction Projects

UCSF resumed work on essential construction projects at sites around San Francisco on April 14, 2020. In addition, we will continue working on projects that were launched in direct support of the needs of our COVID-19 response.

The decision to resume work on essential projects is in accordance with current local and statewide shelter-in-place orders, which allow exceptions for essential construction activities.

Resuming these essential construction and maintenance projects will help UCSF meet the needs of our patients, researchers, trainees, and the wider community during and after the current public health crisis.

UCSF is committed to safeguarding the health of the construction and maintenance workers, as well as the health of the surrounding communities. We are working closely with all the contractors involved in these projects to ensure their work complies with the San Francisco Department of Public Health’s Directive on Construction Safety, including the requirement to maintain physical distancing to prevent transmission of the virus.

UCSF is also working with our contractors to ensure that anyone exposed to or exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, or anyone who tests positive for the novel coronavirus, remains at home until they are cleared to return to work.

Despite the unprecedented challenges created by COVID-19, UCSF’s mission remains unchanged. We are committed to providing excellent patient care, pursuing path-breaking research, and training the next generation of scientists and patient care providers.

3.  Governor Outlines Plan to Reopen State

Yesterday, Gov. Newsom outlined a framework to determine when the state and local communities can begin to resume work, school, and other activities. The timing will depend on the progress we make toward six indicators, and the governor pledged to make any decisions in concert with local public health authorities and other city and county leaders. For more details, please see the governor’s press release.

Given UCSF's close coordination with the City and County of San Francisco and the Governor's office in managing this public health crisis, we will update the UCSF community as we develop our own plans.

4.  UCSF COVID-19 Town Halls and Online Events

  • UCSF leaders for the weekly UCSF Health and Campus COVID-19 Response Town Hall on Friday, April 17 at 4 p.m. Participate via Zoom.
  • Department of Medicine Grand Rounds on Thursday, April 16 at 12 p.m. for an update on Covid-19: Epidemiology, Treatments and Health Disparities – A list of speakers and panelist as well as Zoom details are available online.
  • “Healing Moral Distress, Moral Outrage, and Reducing Burnout” – Part III of the Department of Psychiatry webcast series “Emotional Resilience During the COVID-19 Crisis” takes place Thursday, April 16 at 12 p.m. Click here to register. (Maximum 3,000 participants)

 

April 7, 2020

The following message was sent by the Office of Communications:

Please be advised of the following campus updates:

  • Beginning on April 8, 2020, anyone on campus is strongly advised to wear cloth face coverings anywhere they may come into contact with other people. As an interim measure, UCSF will provide essential on-site personnel with surgical masks. Employees who enter clinical areas will be subject to the Universal Surgical Mask Policy.

This guidance is intended to supplement the COVID-19 precautions that are already in place, including frequent handwashing and social distancing, and is in accordance with the latest public health recommendations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). For more information, please see the new Campus Face Covering Guidelines.

  • Beginning April 8, 2020, use of your identification key card to enter campus facilities will be an attestation that:
    • You have not been diagnosed with COVID-19 within the previous 14 days.
    • You have not had recent exposures or symptoms that make you likely to be COVID-19 positive.
    • You are entering the facility on essential business and will stay only as long as necessary.
    • You are adhering to the UCSF Social Distancing Protocol and Campus Face Covering Guidelines.
    • For complete details, please see the Key Card Attestation.
  • Due to the demands of responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have cancelled the 2020 Staff Engagement Survey. The next survey will be launched in April 2021.
  • Please join UCSF leaders on Friday, April 10, at 4 p.m. for the weekly UCSF Health and Campus COVID-19 Response Town Hall.

 

April 3, 2020

 

April 2, 2020

 

March 31, 2020

The following message was sent via Office of Communications:

As the situation around COVID-19 continues to evolve, UCSF has announced the following University-wide updates:

  • Shelter-in-place orders that are currently in effect in the City and County of San Francisco and six other Bay Area jurisdictions have been extended until at least May 1. In accordance with this update, UCSF has extended all campuswide policies aligned with these orders through at least May 1. 
  • UCSF has instituted a universal surgical mask policy. All employees, health care workers, visitors, and trainees entering a UCSF clinical care building will be provided with a surgical mask upon entry. This mask should be used for that day or shift until it becomes wet, soiled, or needs to be changed for alternate personal protective equipment (PPE). Full details of the policy can be found on the UCSF Health Infection Prevention website.
  • Join UCSF leaders for the weekly UCSF Health and Campus COVID-19 Response Town Hall on Friday, April 3 at 4 p.m. Participate via Zoom: https://ucsf.zoom.us/j/403662669
  • Members of the UCSF community are encouraged to make use of the updated information and resources available on the UCSF COVID-19 and UCSF Health Infection Prevention websites. In addition, text “UCSF” to 333 111 to receive text alerts when updated UCSF guidance and information are made available.

UCSF will continue to communicate updates as the situation changes. Everyone’s continued efforts to ensure the health and well-being of the UCSF community are greatly appreciated.

 

March 25, 2020

 

March 22, 2020

 

March 20, 2020

The following message was sent via Office of Communications:

UCSF is continuing to monitor the changes related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the situation evolves, we will share updated guidance on UCSF policies and resources you can use to stay informed and safe.  Leaders across UCSF also will be sharing these updates, to help ensure that all of the UCSF community receives the information they need.

This update includes Governor Gavin Newsom’s order for all Californians to shelter in place, and the U.S. Department of State’s Level 4 travel advisory against all international travel.

In addition, don’t forget to join a virtual UCSF COVID-19 Response Town Hall, which will include Chancellor Sam Hawgood, UCSF Health President and CEO Mark Laret, and others who will address topics and questions about COVID-19 and UCSF’s response.

Governor Newsom Extends Shelter-in-Place Order Across California

U.S. Department of State Issues “Level 4” Travel Advisory Against All International Travel

Guidance for Using Zoom and Avoiding Connection Issues

IRS Extends Tax Filing Deadline to July 15, 2020—With Conditions

 

March 19, 2020

 

March 17, 2020

  • Chancellor Hawgood sent a message explaining how UCSF’s actions align with the “shelter in place” order announced by seven Bay Area counties, which includes updated guidance on:
    • Large events: All non-essential events and gatherings shall be cancelled or postponed, and event organizers must prioritize alternatives such as teleconferencing. Gatherings essential to operations are exempt. Read more »
    • Library closure: The Library is closed until further notice. Collections and essential services will be available remotely. Read more »
    • Shuttle hours: UCSF’s shuttles will operate on a reduced schedule from March 18 through April 3. Read more »
    • Deliveries: Orders should be limited to mission critical products. Read more »
    • Remote IT access: IT has created guidance around working remotely, and requests that all remote workers use VPN only when needed. Read more »
    • New UC Employee Leave Policy: The University of California has issued updated guidance that outlines expanded paid administrative leave to address employees’ needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more »

 

March 16, 2020

The following message was sent via UCSF WarnMe:

The City and County of San Francisco has joined six other Bay Area jurisdictions in asking all residents to stay home except to meet essential needs. This order is effective 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, March 17, 2020 until April 7.

The order asks people to stay at home as much as possible. They can go to work and go outside for essential activities including exercise, but they should maintain 6 feet of distance from other people. Services such as banking, gas stations, grocery stores, childcare, public transit, and health care operations would still be operating.

Healthcare facilities and healthcare operations are exempted. As such, UCSF will continue to follow the actions announced recently by Chancellor Hawgood, reducing on-site work where possible, including all non-critical research activities, and encouraging all employees who can, to work from home.

UCSF employees should check with their department heads about whether they should continue to report to work on-site or be redeployed, or if they can work remotely. Employees who work on-site are required to practice social distancing, staying at least six feet from one another.

Employees who leave campus are asked to be ready to return on-site if necessary, as critical functions may need assistance.

More information will be available later from a message by Chancellor Hawgood.

March 15, 2020

 

March 13, 2020