Category Newsletter


New physician joins UMC 

Dr. Emily Brown, a family medicine physician, joined University Medical Center and will care for patients at UMC clinics in Demopolis and Livingston.   She is also a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Family, Internal, and Rural Medicine at The University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences, which operates UMC. Brown completed her…


Exploring the connection between music therapy and health

Music can bring back memories, encourage movement, ease anxiety and create meaningful connections. When used intentionally by a trained professional, it can also help people communicate, develop skills and cope with healthcare challenges, according to Dr. Andrea Cevasco-Trotter, director and professor of music therapy at The University of Alabama.  Cevasco-Trotter spoke about music therapy and…


Skin cancer: The importance of detection and prevention

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, but early detection and prevention can help reduce the risk of serious disease, according to Dr. Lauren Hughey, associate clinical professor at the UAB Heersink School of Medicine and founder of Renew Dermatology in Birmingham.  Hughey spoke about the recognition, diagnosis, treatment and prevention…


Free flu vaccines available to UA students, employees

The University of Alabama’s 15th annual Flu Shot Campaign begins Sept. 1, offering free flu vaccinations to UA students, faculty and staff at locations across campus through mid-November.  Led by UA’s College of Community Health Sciences, the campaign will provide free flu shots at pop-up clinics throughout campus, including locations near the Quad, University buildings…


September is National Suicide Prevention Month

September is recognized as National Suicide Prevention Month by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, a time to raise awareness about and support for those affected by suicide. More than 49,000 people in the United States died by suicide in 2023, making it a leading cause of death, according to SAMHSA. Warning signs…


Understanding concussion treatment and recovery 

A concussion isn’t always as simple as a bump on the head. Symptoms can vary widely from person to person and identifying the specific challenges a patient is experiencing can help guide treatment and recovery, according to Dr. Michael Collins, professor and Arthur J. Rooney Sr. Chair in Sports Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh.  Collins spoke about the assessment, management and treatment of…


Skin cancer: the importance of detection and prevention 

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, but early detection and prevention can help reduce the risk of serious disease, according to Dr. Lauren Hughey, clinical professor at the UAB Heersink School of Medicine and founder of Renew Dermatology in Birmingham.  Hughey spoke about the recognition, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of skin cancer during…


Menopause Hormonal Therapy treatment available at UMC 

Many women experience physical and emotional changes during menopause, but treatment options are available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life, according to Drs. Catherine Lavender and Savannah Giovane, family medicine obstetricians at University Medical Center.  They discussed a treatment option called menopause hormone therapy (MHT) during a recent presentation to faculty, residents and medical students at the College of Community Health Sciences,…


Mental health care available at two locations 

University Medical Center’s Betty Shirley Clinic now provides mental health care services at two locations in Tuscaloosa.  The Betty Shirley Clinic at University Medical Center Tuscaloosa is now open in its newly renovated space at 850 Peter Bryce Blvd.  The Betty Shirley Clinic at Northeast Medical Building will continue serving patients at 211 Peter Bryce Blvd. Drs.…


Did you know?

University of Alabama employees enrolled in UA’s health insurance plan can access pharmacy services right on campus. University Health Service Pharmacy is located just steps from the University Medical Center Faculty-Staff Clinic at 750 Peter Bryce Boulevard.