March 21, 2022

Monday, March 21, 2022: 12:30 p.m.

Potential heavy rainfall event could impact evening and morning commutes

Texas Children’s leadership and the Organizational Resilience team are closely monitoring a potential heavy rainfall event that could impact Austin, Beaumont, College Station and Houston starting this afternoon and through tomorrow morning. The team is also monitoring any potential impacts on schools, roads and utilities.

Along with the heavy rainfall and localized flash flooding, there is a chance for strong winds (30-35 mph gusts), lightning, possible hail and localized tornadoes. Widespread rainfall totals of 2-4” are expected with locally higher amounts.

For resources to monitor travel and road conditions, visit Houston Transtar and Drive Texas. For localized updates, see below:

  • Austin: Storms are expected to move through from 1-9 p.m. today with the largest line of storms this evening.
  • Beaumont: Storms will approach the area Tuesday morning, with the heaviest rainfall expected around 9 a.m. moving out well before noon.
  • College Station: The heaviest storms are expected to move into the area around midnight and move through by 3 a.m. Tuesday morning.
  • Houston: Strong to severe storms are expected starting at 9 p.m. this evening through 9 a.m. Tuesday morning with 1-3” of rain expected with higher amounts locally.

For those commuting on Tuesday morning, please follow the local news and weather for traffic and safety alerts, use caution when navigating roadways and plan for additional travel time to allow for detours around flooded areas and travel through heavy rains.

As this will occur during our morning shift change, clinical staff will conduct one-to-one hand offs. Please prepare your back-up child care plans in the case of school delays or closures. Team members at our community practices are asked to consult with their leadership about any impacts to local operations.

To sign up for emergency text message alerts, follow these instructions.

Thank you for your attention and always operating safely.

Michele Birsinger
Administrator on Call

Michelle Riley-Brown
EVP on Call

September 14, 2021

Tuesday, September 14, 2021: 9:13 a.m.

Update on Texas Children’s response as Nicholas downgraded to tropical storm

As Tropical Storm Nicholas moves through southeast Texas, most of the worst winds and threats remain to the northeast and east of Houston. Although we are seeing some significant power outages across the area, daylight is bringing improved conditions, which we expect to continue throughout the morning and into the afternoon. Our eyes are now on east Texas, where we are monitoring conditions for our TCP practices and TCHP membership.

Given these conditions, members of our ride-out team are free to return home as driving conditions improve and it is safe for them to commute. For those who have concerns about traveling, they may stay on-site during their off-shift and will receive Off-Shift Pay. Please also see the following updates.

  • Emergency Pay Practices for Texas Children’s will end at 7 p.m. today.
  • Any team member working remotely today must use the ATK Telecommute Code for accurate remote tracking.
  • Texas Children’s will resume normal operations tomorrow.

Your safety remains our first priority, so all team members are advised to remain cautious when traveling the roadways and plan for additional time to avoid flooded areas, debris and downed power lines. If you were planning to work remotely but are unable to due to power outages or other circumstances, please let your leader know your status when possible.

Thank you to everyone who supported our response to this storm. Your resilience and dedication are extremely appreciated. This will be our last planned global update for this event. Please continue to be safe.

Tabitha Rice
Administrator on Call

Mark Mullarkey
EVP on Call

Melissa Murrah
VP, Organizational Resilience

 

Tuesday, September 14, 2021: 7:03 a.m.

Update on Hurricane Nicholas response

As Hurricane Nicholas moves through southeast Texas, the forecast is looking increasingly favorable to produce lower rain totals than were previously projected. Although this system is still continuing to move through our area, bringing rain, wind and some power outages across southeast Texas, most of the activity is taking place to the east of our three hospital campuses.

At this time, officials are asking individuals to stay off the roads due to debris and downed power lines, and we are encouraging our team members to stay put until it is safe to travel. As the roads are assessed and cleared, we expect driving conditions to improve this morning.

Texas Children’s leadership is also monitoring conditions in far east Texas (Baytown and Beaumont) and potential impacts to our TCP practices and TCHP membership.

Later this morning, we will provide an update to inform on the status of our emergency response. Please stay tuned for this additional update and thank you for your efforts.

Tabitha Rice
Administrator on Call

Mark Mullarkey
EVP on Call

Melissa Murrah
VP, Organizational Resilience

 

Monday, September 13, 2021: 4:40 p.m.

Ride-Out Information for Tropical Storm Nicholas

Texas Children’s is activating Ride-Out and Emergency Pay Practices effective from 7 p.m. today through 7 p.m. tomorrow, though this may be extended depending on the impacts of Tropical Storm Nicholas. If you will be serving on ride-out, please take a moment to review the following information.

Additionally, for this event we will be managing our check in process at the Medical Center through a new app to more efficiently arrange sleeping and shower accommodations. Please click here to check in. For information on other locations, and other details, please see below.

Parking

  • Shuttle buses will continue to run their regular routes until further notice.
  • Beginning at 5 p.m., Garages 12, 16, and 21 will be opened for all staff and visitors at no charge.
  • Those on ride-out at The Woodlands and West Campus should park as they would during a regular shift.

Employee Screening

  • All team members reporting for ride-out should complete employee screening upon arrival. You will then be required to complete screening again each day you are on campus.

Check-In

  • Main Campus. Please click here to check in.
  • West Campus. Please proceed to the 1st floor conference center to check-in and receive your sleeping assignment.
  • Woodlands Campus. Please connect with your leader to receive your sleeping assignment.

Food Options

  • The Fresh Bistro at the Pavilion for Women will remain open tonight through 10 p.m., and be open Tuesday from 6 – 10 a.m., 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. and 4-8 p.m. The Coffee Corner at the Pavilion will maintain regular hours of operation Monday and Wednesday, and be closed on Tuesday.
  • The Food Court at Mark Wallace Tower will be closed Tuesday and will reopen for regular hours on Wednesday.
  • The Treehouse Café at The Woodlands campus will operate under normal hours of operations, from 7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. The Coffee Shop will be open from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.
  • Dot’s Kitchen at West Campus will remain open under normal hours of operations, from 7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. The Coffee Shop will be open from 7 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Gift Shop Hours

Monday, September 13, 2021

  • West Tower: 7 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
  • All others closed at 4 p.m.

Tuesday, September 14, 2021

  • Abercrombie, Mark Wallace Tower, Pavilion: Closed
  • West Tower: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
  • West Campus: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
  • Woodlands: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

For any other questions or assistance with ride-out, please consult your leader. To sign up for emergency text alerts, follow these instructions.

We thank our ride-out team members for stepping up to play such an important role in ensuring Texas Children’s can deliver exceptional care to our patients and their families throughout Tropical Storm Nicholas. Your commitment and contributions are appreciated.

Tabitha Rice
Administrator on Call

Mark Mullarkey
EVP on Call

Melissa Murrah
VP, Organizational Resilience

 

Monday, September 13, 2021: 12:24 p.m.

Ride-Out beginning at 7 p.m. in response to Tropical Storm Nicholas

The National Weather Service is now reporting that Tropical Storm Nicholas will likely make landfall along the Texas coast this evening, then move slowly northeast into Southeast Texas. The Houston area could begin to see showers today, with the heaviest rainfall expected between a 36-hour period from tonight into Wednesday morning. As much as 10-20 inches of rain are expected to fall in some locations over the next few days, with 4-8 inches predicted for Harris County.

In response to this storm, Texas Children’s will be activating Ride-Out and Emergency Pay Practices effective at 7 p.m. today through 7 p.m. tomorrow, though this may be extended. Additionally, we will be making sleep arrangements for employees at our three main campuses, with cots available this afternoon.

Although we are initiating ride-out, we would like to restrict the number of persons sleeping on-site during this event to only those who are absolutely required. Guidance will be provided to leaders to communicate to our employees. In general, if you are able to work remotely, please plan to do so on Tuesday. Additionally, we anticipate that the majority of our outpatient appointments will move to virtual on Tuesday. Guidance for your location will be provided by your leader.

Staff who are not able to work remotely and are not required to be on site to support operations will not be required to take PTO on Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2021. They will be paid for the hours that they were scheduled for that day. Please see additional details related to our response.

On-site Team Members

  • If you are working tonight, please use caution when navigating roadways and plan for additional travel time to make detours or adjust your route if necessary.
  • Emergency Pay will be in effect beginning at 7 p.m. today to provide extra compensation for Texas Children’s employees working on site. For more information on Emergency Pay, click here.
  • Employees on-site are required to complete screening every 24 hours.

Remote Workers

  • All exempt and non-exempt employees working remotely must use the ATK Telecommute Code for accurate remote tracking.
  • Stay in communication with your leader about your status.
  • To sign up for emergency text alerts, follow these instructions.

We will continue to meet throughout the day and for the duration of Tropical Storm Nicholas and communicate updates to you as information becomes available.

Thank you for your attention and commitment to always operating safely.

Tabitha Rice
Administrator on Call

Mark Mullarkey
EVP on Call

Melissa Murrah
VP, Organizational Resilience

 

Sunday, September 12, 2021: 12:31 p.m.

Tropical Storm Nicholas expected to impact southeast Texas through Wednesday

The latest forecast from the National Weather Service is predicting Tropical Storm Nicholas to continue forming in the Gulf of Mexico over the next 24-36 hours before making landfall along the south Texas coastline Monday evening. From there, the system is expected to move northward and into the Houston area beginning Monday night and into Tuesday.

Although there is variability in the current forecast, rainfall totals are expected to be about 4-8 inches throughout Harris County beginning Monday and lasting through Wednesday with coastal areas expected to see higher rainfall totals. During this event, we are anticipating a heightened risk of flash flooding, although serious flooding is not currently expected (though subject to change). No impacts are currently expected for Austin, and we are continuing to engage with leaders in McAllen, Tyler and Beaumont to assess potential impacts to these areas.

As of right now, Texas Children’s is maintaining normal operations. However, we advise all team members and medical staff to be alert for impacts beginning tomorrow evening, and to be ready in the event we are required to follow emergency procedures. Please review the following:

  • If you are scheduled to work at any time on Monday, please come to work with a disaster bag ready should the forecast worsen over the course of day and into Tuesday.
  • If you are scheduled to work Monday evening, please monitor local weather and street conditions, and prepare for a longer commute. Although we do not currently anticipate significant flooding, there is a possibility of heavy rains, which may impact traffic.
  • No matter the case, always use caution when navigating the roadways. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
  • To sign up for emergency text alerts, follow these instructions.

Texas Children’s leadership and Department of Organizational Resilience will continue to closely monitor this storm (with meetings scheduled for later this afternoon and tomorrow morning) and communicate updates as information becomes available. Thank you for your attention and always operating safely.

Jill Pearsall
Administrator on Call

Michelle Riley-Brown
EVP on Call

Melissa Murrah
VP, Organizational Resilience

 

Friday, September 10, 2021: 2:45 p.m.

Potential heavy rainfall event forecasted for late Sunday into midweek

Texas Children’s leadership and the Organizational Resilience team are closely monitoring a potential heavy rainfall event that could impact Southeast Texas late Sunday and continue into midweek. The National Weather Service Houston/Galveston is currently forecasting early Monday through Tuesday as the time period for the heaviest rain.

Though Houston, Austin and surrounding areas are in the precipitation forecast, the area south of the Columbus-Livingston line and locations closer to the coast are projected to be at highest risk for the most significant rain accumulations. Flash flooding, some river flooding and heavy downpours in very short time periods are among the possible threats.

As your safety is our first priority and this heavy rain could arrive over the weekend, we advise our team members and medical staff to prepare now for inclement weather.

  • Gather all necessary equipment and resources should you be required to work remotely.
  • If you are on a ride-out team or presenting for duty as part of our medical staff, please be ready for rapid activation in the event we must stand up emergency practices. Have your disaster bag ready.
  • To sign up for emergency text message alerts, follow these instructions.

Additional emergency weather updates will be communicated as needed, including any information for those on a ride-out team or presenting for duty.

Thank you for your attention and always operating safely.

Jill Pearsall
Administrator on Call

Michelle Riley-Brown
EVP on Call

Melissa Murrah
VP, Organizational Resilience

May 19, 2021

Wednesday, May 19, 2021: 2:30 p.m.

Update 4: Return to Normal Operations at 7 p.m.

Though a Flash Flood Watch remains in effect for southeast Texas through 1 p.m. Thursday, the National Weather Service predicts lower rainfall totals than what we experienced during last night’s storm. As a result, we will be resuming normal operations and discontinuing Emergency Pay Practices at 7 p.m. this evening.

Thank you again to all of our team members who reported for duty and assisted Texas Children’s in planning and responding to this latest weather event. Because of your commitment, we were able to seamlessly continue operations for our patients and their families, and this makes a tremendous difference for those we serve.

Please take a moment to review the following updates:

  • Emergency Pay. All emergency pay and off-shift/sleep pay practices will end at 7 p.m. today, at which time we will revert to our normal pay practices. Exempt staff (including leaders up to the director level) will be paid a $250 stipend for 8 or more hours spent on-site between 7 p.m., May 18 and 7 p.m., May 19. Calculation of hours will include both on-duty and off-shift hours. Employees can expect to see Emergency Pay and Emergency Stipends reflected on their June 3 checks.
  • Remote Work. Team members who are able to return to work on-site should do so, or connect with their leader to make other arrangements. Any employee (exempt or non-exempt) who continues to work remotely must use the ATK Telecommute code for accurate tracking of remote hours. Instructions on how to do so can be found here.
  • Parking. At this time, we have reverted to normal parking operations. Entrance gates have been lowered and exit gates will be lowered at 9 p.m. Please park in your usual location moving forward. Shuttles are operating under their normal schedule.
  • Sleep Arrangements. If for any reason you have concerns about commuting home this evening, please contact your leader about facilitating sleep arrangements.
  • Support Resources. For general questions about this event, contact our HR Employee Support Center at 832-826-4700. If you need support for your well-being, contact our Employee Assistance Program and Well-Being team at 832-824-3327. Please note that this support number will close on May 21 at 5 p.m.

Thank you again for leading tirelessly during this effort.

Afsheen Davis
Administrator on Call

Michelle Riley-Brown
EVP on Call

Melissa Murrah
Emergency Management

 

Wednesday, May 19, 2021: 8:05 a.m.

Update 3: Flash Flood Watch Still in Effect for Houston, East Texas

Thank you to all of our employees who helped in preparing, implementing and riding out the line of storms that passed through Austin and Houston yesterday and last night. Your efforts to go above and beyond for our patients and families is extremely appreciated, and is ensuring our operations can continue despite the unpredictability in the weather.

At this time, our forecast is predicting showers and isolated thunderstorms will continue across southeast Texas throughout the day, bringing upwards to 4 inches in some areas. Given the significant amount of rainfall we experienced last night, there remains a risk of flash flooding across much of the area, and we expect that risk to subside as we head into Thursday.

Throughout the morning, we will continue monitoring the forecast and will communicate operational updates later today. In the meantime, please review the following:

  • ATK Telecommute Code. Important clarification: Any employee (exempt or non-exempt) working remotely must use the ATK Telecommute code for remote tracking. This is essential to ensure accurate implementation of our pay programs. Instructions on how to use the ATK Telecommute code are located here.
  • Shuttle services. Shuttles services from Garage 19 and Meyer to the Medical Center Campus are running on schedule. Garages 16 and 21 are full at this time. Valet services are complimentary for patient families today.
  • Resources for employees. If you feel you need any well-being or mental health support, please reach out to Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Well-Being at 832-824-3327. This team will also be visiting each floor to provide additional support to team members.
  • Respite rooms. Respite rooms are also available throughout all three campuses to provide our team members with a quiet space to relax and decompress.

Thank you again for all of your efforts. Stay safe.

Afsheen Davis
Administrator on Call

Michelle Riley-Brown
EVP on Call

Melissa Murrah
Emergency Management

 

Tuesday, May 18, 2021: 3:19 p.m.

Update 2: Emergency Practices Beginning Due to Inclement Weather

As we continue to monitor the weather, our current forecast is predicting heavy rainfall to begin this afternoon in the Austin area, and then move into Houston overnight and through Thursday. At this time, it is unclear what operational impacts we can expect. However, flash flooding does appear likely across much of our area, which could pose significant hazards for team members commuting to and from work.

Out of an abundance of caution for the safety of our team members, as well as to ensure we meet appropriate staffing levels that address the needs of our patients, Texas Children’s is beginning its emergency practices at 7 p.m. today and will be requiring all ride-out team members (who must be present on-site to perform their duties) to stay on-site through Thursday, beginning tonight at 11 p.m. Ride-out team members whose shift begins at 7 p.m. should arrive to work at their scheduled time. Please confirm with your leader if you are considered Ride Out for this event.

For more information, please review the following:

  • Pay Practices. Beginning at 7 p.m. today, Texas Children’s will begin Emergency Pay Practices for all ride-out team members required to be on-site during this weather event. For non-exempt team members, this includes pay at time-and-a-half for all hours worked, as well as sleep pay at the team member’s regular hourly rate.

Additionally, exempt staff – including leaders up to the director level – will be paid a stipend for hours spent on-site. Calculation of hours will include both on-duty and off-shift hours. Additional information will be communicated later this week.

  • Sleeping Arrangements. Given the chance of severe weather, sleeping arrangements will be made for all team members required to be on-site. If you will be working on-site through Thursday, please know that you are required to sleep on-site, beginning tonight, and will receive sleep pay at your normal hourly rate. Please arrive at your place of work no later than 11 p.m. tonight.

– Medical Center Campus. Parking is available for team members in Garage 16 (Mark A. Wallace Tower) and Garage 21 (Pavilion for Women/Legacy Tower). Parking gate arms will be lifted to ensure access in and out of the garages. After you complete your screening, please proceed to the 3rd floor of Wallace Tower to check-in and receive your sleeping assignment.

– West Campus. After you complete your screening, please proceed to the 1st floor conference center to check-in and receive your sleeping assignment.

– The Woodlands Campus. Please connect with your leader to receive your sleeping assignment.

  • Remote work. All team members who are able to work from home are required to do so through Thursday. If you are a non-exempt team member, please clock-in using the ATK time code in Kronos.

To monitor the latest weather and road updates, please visit the National Weather Service, Houston TranStar, TX DOT or Texas Children’s Emergency Management Connect site.

Be safe.

Afsheen Davis
Administrator on Call

Michelle Riley-Brown
EVP on Call

Melissa Murrah
Emergency Management

 

Monday, May 17, 2021: 5:18 p.m.

Heavy rainfall expected through Thursday

Texas Children’s leadership and the Department of Emergency Management are closely monitoring the potential for heavy rainfall beginning this afternoon and lasting through Thursday, with localized flash flooding a possibility for portions of Houston and east Texas.

At this time, all employees are advised to exercise caution when navigating the roadways and to avoid any flooded areas as you head home or make your way into work. Please plan for additional travel time this week, and be prepared to identify alternative routes in case roadways become flooded. Please also be sure to communicate with your leader should your arrival to work be delayed at any time due to poor conditions.

To monitor the latest weather and road updates, please visit the National Weather Service, Houston TranStar, TX DOT or Texas Children’s Emergency Management Connect site.

Additional updates will be communicated as the situation warrants.

Be safe.

Afsheen Davis
Administrator on Call

Michelle Riley-Brown
EVP on Call

Melissa Murrah
Emergency Management

August 24, 2017

Final Hurricane Harvey update: Sunday, 7 a.m.

Hurricane Harvey was downgraded to a tropical depression and had moved out of the Houston area as of the end of last week. Many of our streets have dried and become passable, and businesses are reopening. We, too, resumed operations across the Texas Children’s system at 7 a.m. today.

We do understand that high water remains throughout some areas, and that there is still a lot of damage that resulted from the storm. We ask that you please continue to be careful as you drive throughout the city and travel to work this week. We know it will take time for some things to completely return to normal, so it’s important that we work together to start moving forward for our patients. By the same token, please make sure you’re talking with your leader if you have a situation that needs additional support, because your welfare is very important to us as well.

As we resume our business operations, we want you to know how very thankful we are for all of you. This was an unprecedented storm that tested the efficiency of our planning and our facilities and the tenacity and dedication of our people. To say we passed the “test” is an understatement. Whether you helped prepare, rode the storm out at the hospital, relieved co-workers, prayed for our Texas Children’s family or encouraged someone here to push through, it all mattered. We bound together for each other and our patients, and we proved, again, that Texas Children’s isn’t just an amazing place for patients to receive care, this is an amazing organization where people become family.

Below, we’re sharing a final video captured during ride-out, because it speaks to the incredible spirit here at Texas Children’s. Thank you for your dedication and for being one truly amazing team!

Click here for the video

Sarah Maytum
Administrator on-call

Wayne Chan
Emergency Management

Hurricane Harvey update no. 16: Thursday, 4:05 p.m.

We are so very fortunate to have started another dry, sunny day in the Houston area, and Texas Children’s was thankfully able to resume normal operations in limited locations today. As we continue bringing our workforce and services back online, we know many of you have questions, which we’ve answered in the FAQs below.

  • Are we still in full activation of our emergency response? No, our emergency response was downgraded to partial activation at noon today.
  • When should I return to work? If your location has not yet resumed normal operations, please speak with your leader about whether you are needed at your work location in order to perform the services we are able to provide at this time. Normal operations will resume across the system at 7 a.m. Sunday, September 3. Labor Day schedules will remain unchanged.
  • Are there still sleeping accommodations available? We have closed the sleeping areas at Wallace Tower, West Campus and The Woodlands. Employees who are needed for our limited operations but are unable to return home from their shifts are allowed to continue sheltering at their Texas Children’s location through Saturday night. However, they only will be paid for the time they are working. If you need sleeping accommodations, please contact your leader. We also encourage employees needing long-term shelter to contact the Employee Assistance Program.
  • What are the emergency pay practices at this point?
    • All non-exempt employees will continue to receive emergency pay until 7 a.m. Sunday only if they are needed to conduct our limited operations during this time.
    • All exempt AND non-exempt employees who are not needed for limited operations can use Harvey day(s), PTO or may take unpaid time off.
    • Emergency pay does not apply to employees of Texas Children’s Health Plan, The Centers, Texas Children’s Pediatrics and Urgent Care.
    • For more details about emergency pay practices, click here.
  • Have shuttle services resumed? As of today, Fannin Direct, Feigin Center Direct and Circulator shuttles have resumed normal hours of operation. There will be no McGovern shuttle service until Friday, September 1. There may not be as many shuttles as usual in operation, so please be patient as our shuttle employees return to work.
  • Are the Texas Children’s garages all accessible? The gates in TMC Garages 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 10 and 15 (McGovern Commons) were raised during the storm for easier access. The garages have now resumed normal operations. All medical center employees need to return to their normal parking locations. If you are currently parked in one of these garages, please press the intercom at the exit for assistance from the TMC Call Center. Employees at the West Campus and The Woodlands have returned to normal designated parking areas as well.
  • How can I help Texas Children’s employees who have been impacted by the storm and flooding? What if I need help? We now have a Hurricane Harvey Relief webpage for Texas Children’s employees. This website is for employees who need help and for those who want to provide help. There is also information on the site about our Employee Financial Assistance Fund for employees to donate or request financial assistance.
  • Which of our outpatient facilities are open as of today?
    • Six Texas Children’s Urgent Care locations are open today until 6 p.m.
    • More than half of Texas Children’s Pediatrics locations are now open. All location openings are being updated here on the Texas Children’s Pediatrics Facebook page. At this time, any established Texas Children’s Pediatrics patient can be seen at any open location.
    • Texas Children’s Health Plan opened its Bellaire office today and is operating normally. The Tyler office is also operating normally. The Beaumont office remains closed.
    • The Centers for Children & Women Greenspoint and Southwest are seeing pediatric and OB walk-in patients from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. today through Sunday. The Center will be closed on Monday for the Labor Day holiday and will resume normal operations on Tuesday, September 5.
    • Texas Children’s Health Centers, Texas Children’s OBGYN/Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinics and Texas Children’s Autism Center and Meyer Center for Developmental Pediatrics on Stadium Drive will resume normal operations on Tuesday, September 5.
    • Texas Children’s West Campus’ Cancer Center and Radiology have limited schedules today. West Campus’ Outpatient Clinics will resume normal operations on Tuesday, September 5.
    • Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands opened limited outpatient clinics today for urgent needs and resumed  surgical cases. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, September 5.

If you still have questions that have not been answered above, please reach out to your leader for additional clarification.

Thank you for your continued commitment to our patients, families and to each other. The past fews days have been a reminder of just how strong we are as an organization.

Sarah Maytum
Administrator on-call

Wayne Chan
Emergency Management

Hurricane Harvey update no. 15: Wednesday, 6:22 p.m.

In our commitment to keep employees up to date with changes as they occur, we have the following new information related to our hospital locations since the global alert was sent out earlier today.  Please note the information that applies specifically to your entities.

Texas Children’s Hospital (Medical Center Campus, West Campus, The Woodlands)

Hospital transition from full activation to partial activation – As we continue to pull together for our employees’ well-being, we have established pay practices for partial activation of emergency management activities beginning 7 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 31 until 7 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 3. At 7 a.m. on Sunday, normal operations will resume for the entire system.

We recognize the extent of this catastrophic event. For those of you who are unable to return home, we will continue to offer sleep accommodations for employees who are needed at work through Sunday night. Please speak with your leader about whether you are needed at your work location in order to perform the limited services we are able provide. Please also let your leader know if you need accommodations after Sunday night and/or help from the employee assistance program.

We realize you might have questions about emergency pay, so some key points are outlined below.

Non-exempt Employees

  • All non-exempt employees will continue to receive emergency pay if they are needed to conduct our limited operations during this time. Please speak with your leader about whether you are needed at your work location in order to perform the limited services we are able provide.
  • Employees who are not needed for limited operations can use Harvey day(s), PTO or may take unpaid time off.
  • Employees who are needed for our limited operations and who are unable to return home from their shifts are allowed to continue sheltering at their Texas Children’s location; however, they will be paid only for the time they are working.
  • Normal operations will begin at 7 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 3, and Labor Day schedules will remain unchanged.

Exempt Employees

  • Please speak with your leader about whether you are needed at your work location in order to perform the limited services we are able provide.
  • Employees who are not needed for limited operations can use Harvey day(s) or PTO.
  • Employees who are needed for our limited operations and unable to return home from their shifts are allowed to continue sheltering at their Texas Children’s location.
  • Employees should check with their leaders regarding their duties during the partial activation period.

Please note that emergency pay does not apply to employees of Texas Children’s Health Plan, The Centers, Texas Children’s Pediatrics and Urgent Care.

Additional Operational Information

  • Medical Center Campus:
  • Thursday, Aug. 31, will be utilized to prepare the Wallace Tower for outpatient visits.  Surgeries for current inpatients will begin Thursday as well.
  • Surgery clinic operations will resume on Friday, Sept. 1.
  • Normal surgery schedule for outpatient and inpatient will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 5.
  • The Woodlands Campus: Surgery clinic appointments and outpatient surgeries will resume Thursday, Aug. 31.
  • West Campus: Because of I-10 road closures still in place, medical and clinical leaders continue to evaluate the process for resuming services.

Shuttle Services at Medical Center Campus

Today, shuttle service to the Feigin Center will run until 9 p.m. Beginning tomorrow, Thursday, Aug. 31, the Fannin Direct, Feigin Center Direct and Circulator shuttles will have normal hours of operation. There will be no McGovern shuttle service until Friday, Sept. 1. There may not be as many shuttles as usual in operation.  Please be patient as our shuttle employees return to work.

TMC Garages

The gates in TMC Garages 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 10 and 15 (McGovern Commons) have been raised due to the weather event. TMC is resuming normal operations for their garages in the morning. All employees need to return to their normal parking locations by 8:30 a.m., Thursday, Aug. 31. For any assistance after the exit gates have been lowered, please press the intercom at the exit device for assistance from the TMC Call Center.

Texas Children’s Pediatrics and Urgent Care

On Thursday, Aug. 31, 27 TCP practices and six urgent care locations will be open. All six urgent care locations will have extended hours from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Click here to visit the TCP/UC website and https://www.facebook.com/texaschildrenspediatrics/ for more information about which locations will be open.

Texas Children’s Health Plan and The Centers

  • Starting Thursday, August 31, TCHP will open its Bellaire office to employees as an option. Remember to plug in all electronic devices including printers and computers.
  • We will maintain regular operations for the remainder of the week.
  • The Beaumont office remains closed.
  • The Tyler office is operating business as usual, and the office is open.
  • The Center for Children & Women Greenspoint and Southwest will see pediatric and OB walk-in patients from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, August 31 through Sunday, September 3.
  • Please stay in touch with your leader regarding your status so we can account for every employee.

The Texas Children’s family has responded with extraordinary commitment and compassion during this challenging time. We are One Amazing Team.

Sarah Maytum
Administrator on-call

Wayne Chan
Emergency Management

 

Hurricane Harvey update no. 14: Wednesday, 12:54

Please note there may be some details below that do not apply to staff and employees in some parts of our system (i.e., Texas Children’s Health Plan, Texas Children’s Pediatrics). Additional communications will be provided to these employees as needed.

After several days of substantial rainfall in our area, the heaviest rain from Harvey has now pushed into Louisiana where the system made a secondary landfall just west of Cameron, Louisiana. The Greater Houston area can expect mostly sunshine today with minimal rain.

We are preparing to open clinics at Main Campus, West Campus, The Woodlands on Tuesday, Sept. 5. We plan to use Friday, Sept. 1, as a preparation day to help transition hospitals. All Texas Children’s Health Centers are closed today and Thursday. The Community Maternal-Fetal Medicine and OB/GYN clinics at the Pavilion for Women and in Pearland are also closed until Tuesday, Sept. 5. Texas Children’s Pediatrics practices and Texas Children’s Urgent Care locations remain closed through Thursday, and leadership continues to assess all locations and develop plans for opening. The Centers for Children and Women are closed today but will be open for walk-in pediatric patients beginning Thursday, Aug. 30 through Sunday, Sept. 3 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Centers’ pharmacies will also be open during these times.

Although there may be more impacts from this storm in the immediate days ahead, we know that with faith, strength and kindness, our city will get through this together. Click here to watch a new video that highlights the continued amazing work going on at the hospital and the impressive support from our community and partners.

Texas Children’s leadership team is actively meeting several times a day and will continue to assess the situation and provide updates.

“Harvey” My Days – As many of you know, Mark Wallace recently announced “Harvey” days – 24 hours for full-time employees and 12 hours for part-time employees – added to your time off bank under “My Days.” While you may not see the Harvey days immediately in your accruals, these extra days will appear sometime this pay period, and you may use them for any time beginning August 27. They will expire on December 31 and do not roll over. Your supervisor must approve the time off, and you may use Clarvia or Kronos to enter and track your days using special pay codes. If you are on or going to be on Leave of Absence or FMLA, the same allocation may be used. If you have any additional questions, please talk with your leader.

Location damage assessments – For insurance purposes, all damage assessments and reports need to be coordinated through the Logistics team at the Medical Center. 832-824-0130. It is very important that we not begin any repairs until damages have been properly documented.

Emotional support services – If you feel you need additional emotional support, please call the page operator at 4-2099, and they will page someone on the TANDEM team to assist. Click here for information from EAP on how we can best support each other during this time. We are all in this together, and we are here for you.

Evacuation zonesClick here to review evacuation zones. The end of evacuation declarations will be on a jurisdiction by jurisdiction basis and quite variable over the next few days.

Please click the links below for updates on your specific area of the system.

Texas Medical Center Campus
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tmc-hurricane-updates/

West Campus
http://texaschildrensnews.org/west-hurricane-updates/

The Woodlands
http://texaschildrensnews.org/the-woodlands-hurricane-updates/

Texas Children’s Pediatrics and Urgent Care
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tcp-uc-hurricane-updates/

Texas Children’s Health Plan
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tchp-hurricane-updates/

Helpful links

All past Harvey global emails

Emergency Pay Practices

Employee Assistance Program

Recommended list for at-work disaster bag

MOLI instructions to receive Emergency Management communications

Texas Children’s updates on social media and websites

Emergency Management Connect site

National Weather Service

School closures

Sarah Maytum
Administrator on Call

Wayne Chan
Emergency Management
Hurricane Harvey update no. 13: Tuesday, 3:22 p.m.

After another night of showers, we are anticipating moderate rainfall throughout the Greater Houston area. Harvey is currently located south of Galveston Bay with the latest forecast showing the system moving northeast and making a secondary landfall near Lake Charles on Wednesday

All hospital campuses remain operational and have done well throughout the hurricane and flooding. Texas Children’s Health Plan operations are up and running, and all Texas Children’s Pediatrics practices and Urgent Care locations are closed. Outpatient activities are being reassessed daily.

We are assessing all of our community sites now and as soon as we can get staff safely to available locations, we will try to get some of these sites open.

Because of advisories regarding impassable roadways, power outages and water releases, our staff is being asked to not report to work unless they have discussed with and had it approved by their supervisor. However, the worst of the storm seems to be behind us allowing more of our staff to come in and relieve their colleagues who have been working tirelessly throughout this weather event. We want to thank everyone for their continued dedication and support.

In recognition of the length of the storm and the impact it has had on so many, we have done the following to help make things a little easier on our employees.

Meals: In recognition of all of the hard work being done throughout our hospitals, we are providing a free dinner to all of our on-site employees tonight. For details, please visit your campus-specific page below. In addition, Texas Children’s is discounting all food and beverages at all three hospital cafeterias by 25 percent now until further notice. Discount is applied at the register.

Badge Purchases: We have increased the monthly maximum purchase limits using your badge to $500 for full-time employees and $250 for part-time employees. If you have not signed up for badge purchases, you can do so through MOLI (instructions here).This benefit applies to all employees. Once employees sign up for this service, the change will occur overnight.

Telemedicine visit available: Blue Cross Blue Shield’s telemedicine partner MDLIVE is offering free virtual visits from Aug. 24-Sept. 8 for individuals impacted by Hurricane Harvey. Individuals may call MDLIVE’s dedicated hotline at 888-959-9516 and provide the code “Harvey” to schedule up to one free virtual visit. All individuals (existing and non-existing members) in the coastal areas of Texas and Louisiana are eligible for this service. Please go to MDLIVE’s website at www.mdlive.com for more information.

Federal aid/Insurance claims: If you’ve had damage to your home and need to apply for federal aid, please visit DisasterAssistance.gov or you may call 1-800-621-3362 seven days a week, 6 a.m. – 10 p.m., CST. As well, many of you have been asking about a deadline to file claims by this Thursday relating to a new law that is set to become effective, referred to as HB 1774. More information about this law, can be found here.

We will continue to add any new updates, including off-shift staff activities, to the individual campus pages below.

Please click the links below for updates on your specific area of the system.

Texas Medical Center Campus
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tmc-hurricane-updates/

West Campus
http://texaschildrensnews.org/west-hurricane-updates/

The Woodlands
http://texaschildrensnews.org/the-woodlands-hurricane-updates/

Texas Children’s Pediatrics and Urgent Care
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tcp-uc-hurricane-updates/

Texas Children’s Health Plan
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tchp-hurricane-updates/

Closures

Outpatient closures on Tuesday and Wednesday:
Texas Children’s Health Centers
Texas Children’s Hospital Texas Medical Center campus
Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands
Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus
Texas Children’s OBGYN/Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinics 

The Centers for Children and Women
All locations are closed on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Texas Children’s Urgent Care
All locations are closed.

Texas Children’s Pediatrics
All locations are closed.

We will continue to monitor closures and communicate any changes. For information on shelters, evacuation maps, etc. please refer to your local county websites.

Helpful links

All past Harvey global emails

Emergency Pay Practices

Employee Assistance Program

Recommended list for at-work disaster bag

MOLI instructions to receive Emergency Management communications

Texas Children’s updates on social media and websites

Emergency Management Connect site

National Weather Service

School closures

Sarah Maytum
Administrator on-call

Wayne Chan
Emergency Management

Hurricane Harvey update no. 12: Monday, 7:39 p.m.

Tropical Storm Harvey has drifted back over the Gulf of Mexico and will work its way up the Texas coastline over the next few days, bringing more rainfall to our already flooded community.

Because of advisories regarding impassable roadways, power outages and water releases, our staff is being asked to not report to work unless they have discussed with and had it approved by their supervisor.

All hospital campuses remain operational and have done well throughout the hurricane and flooding. Texas Children’s Health Plan operations are up and running, and all Texas Children’s Pediatrics practices and Urgent Care locations are closed. Outpatient activities are being reassessed daily.

If you haven’t already, be sure to read Mark Wallace’s message below about all that is being done to care for our patients and families during this unprecedented weather event. We’re so proud of the way our employees have to joined together as One Amazing Team!

Please click the links below for updates on your specific area of the system.

Texas Medical Center Campus
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tmc-hurricane-updates/

West Campus
http://texaschildrensnews.org/west-hurricane-updates/

The Woodlands
http://texaschildrensnews.org/the-woodlands-hurricane-updates/

Texas Children’s Pediatrics and Urgent Care
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tcp-uc-hurricane-updates/

Texas Children’s Health Plan
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tchp-hurricane-updates/

Closures
Outpatient closures on Monday and Tuesday:
Texas Children’s Health Centers
Texas Children’s Hospital Texas Medical Center campus
Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands
Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus
Texas Children’s OBGYN/Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinics

The Centers for Children and Women
All locations are closed on Monday and Tuesday.

Texas Children’s Urgent Care
All locations are closed.

Texas Children’s Pediatrics
All locations are closed.

We will continue to monitor closures and communicate any changes. For information on shelters, evacuation maps, etc. please refer to your local county websites.

Helpful links

All past Harvey global emails

Emergency Pay Practices

Employee Assistance Program

Recommended list for at-work disaster bag

MOLI instructions to receive Emergency Management communications

Texas Children’s updates on social media and websites

Emergency Management Connect site

National Weather Service

School closures

Sarah Maytum
Administrator on-call

Wayne Chan
Emergency Management

 

Hurricane Harvey update no. 11: Monday, 1:19 p.m.

Although Harvey will move out into the Gulf of Mexico this afternoon, it is expected to make a second landfall as a Tropical Storm near Galveston Tuesday afternoon. Rain in Houston and beyond will continue for the next three to four days, enhancing existing flooding across the area.

Based on today’s advisories regarding impassable roadways, our staff is being asked to not report to work unless they have been cleared to do so by a supervisor. If you are cleared to come in, please prepare to stay for a few days by bringing plenty of clothes, food and linens.

All hospital campuses remain fully operational and have done well throughout the hurricane. Texas Children’s Health Plan operations are up and running at all locations, and all Texas Children’s Pediatrics practices and Urgent Care locations are closed. Outpatient activities are being reassessed daily.

Be sure to read Mark Wallace’s message about all that is being done to care for our patients and families during this unprecedented weather event.

Please click the links below for updates on your specific area of the system.

Texas Medical Center Campus
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tmc-hurricane-updates/

West Campus
http://texaschildrensnews.org/west-hurricane-updates/

The Woodlands
http://texaschildrensnews.org/the-woodlands-hurricane-updates/

Texas Children’s Pediatrics and Urgent Care
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tcp-uc-hurricane-updates/

Texas Children’s Health Plan
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tchp-hurricane-updates/

Closures
Outpatient closures on Monday and Tuesday:
Texas Children’s Health Centers
Texas Children’s Hospital Texas Medical Center campus
Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands
Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus
Texas Children’s OBGYN/Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinics

The Centers for Children and Women
All locations are closed on Monday and Tuesday.

Texas Children’s Urgent Care
All locations are closed.

Texas Children’s Pediatrics
All locations are closed.

We will continue to monitor closures and communicate any changes.

Helpful links

All past Harvey global emails

Emergency Pay Practices

Employee Assistance Program

Recommended list for at-work disaster bag

MOLI instructions to receive Emergency Management communications

Texas Children’s updates on social media and websites

Emergency Management Connect site

National Weather Service

School closures

Cris Daskevich
Administrator on-call

Wayne Chan
Emergency Management

A Message from President and CEO Mark A. Wallace: Hurricane Harvey Update: Monday, 8:49 a.m.

Texas Children’s Family,

In the past 48 hours I have seen many heartbreaking images from around our city, but just as compelling have been the scenes of resilience and kindness in our community. There has been no greater demonstration of that spirit than what is occurring right now at Texas Children’s.

Every single person – whether they are in patient care or in support functions – is pulling together and getting us through some incredible challenges right now. I know this is not easy. But you know what? We are at our best when things are not easy. We are strong, compassionate and resourceful, and I’ve never seen any situation that surpassed our determination and our unity.

You are the very best that our city has to offer, and we are blessed that you are here, supporting each other, our patients and their families. By the same token, I know that many of you cannot be at work. And like me, you are eager to get back to Texas Children’s, our patients and colleagues. We know your hearts are here, but the best thing we can continue to do is to stay connected to our colleagues as much as possible, and to keep everyone in our prayers.

I so appreciate everyone’s commitment and dedication, and I can think of no other organization in the world that could handle what we are facing with the leadership, tenacity and determination that you all are showing.

One of our colleagues – Wally Crow in Marketing/PR – has been at the medical center campus since the storm began and has captured some of that Texas Children’s spirit. I want you to see it and celebrate it. I want you to see how amazing you really are. And I want our colleagues who are supporting our efforts from home or elsewhere to see how our amazing team is responding.

Thank you Wally for this incredible video. This fills my heart with so much pride. This is the spirit of Texas Children’s.

Click here for the video.

Stay strong and safe,

Mark A. Wallace

Hurricane Harvey update no. 10: Sunday, 7:53 p.m.

Hurricane Harvey continues to impact our local and surrounding communities and the forecast shows that it will do so for several more days. Based on tonight’s advisories regarding impassable roadways, our staff at our hospitals will stay in place. If you are at home, please do not try to come in. A decision about future operational activity will be made Monday morning.

We understand that the situation is mentally and physically demanding, and we sincerely appreciate your dedication and all that you are doing to care for our patients, their families and each other. Remember, taking care of yourself is a priority, which includes taking any necessary medication, eating and getting as much rest as possible.

We want to thank our many partners for being onsite with us and enabling us to continue to offer our staff, patients and families the support and care they need during this trying time. Some of these partners include, Cotton, Fisk Electric, Humphrey’s, Morrison Healthcare and W. S. Bellows Construction.

With respect to Texas Children’s facilities, we have teams of individuals continually assessing each location to identify, prioritize and address all building issues. Please continue to contact our Logistics Team at ext. 4-5000 if you notice any facilities’ issues.

Payroll
Payroll has been automatically approved. Emergency pay and punch corrections will be added/corrected during the next pay period. We appreciate your patience.

Please click the links below for updates on your specific area of the system.

Texas Medical Center Campus
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tmc-hurricane-updates/

West Campus
http://texaschildrensnews.org/west-hurricane-updates/

The Woodlands
http://texaschildrensnews.org/the-woodlands-hurricane-updates/

Texas Children’s Pediatrics and Urgent Care
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tcp-uc-hurricane-updates/

Texas Children’s Health Plan
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tchp-hurricane-updates/

Closures
Outpatient closures on Saturday, Sunday and Monday:
Texas Children’s Health Centers
Texas Children’s Hospital Texas Medical Center campus outpatient activities
Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands
Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus
Texas Children’s OBGYN/Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinics

The Centers for Children and Women
All locations are closed Saturday and Sunday.

Texas Children’s Urgent Care
All locations are closed Saturday.

Texas Children’s Pediatrics
All locations are closed Saturday.

We will continue to monitor closures and communicate any changes.

Helpful links

All past Harvey global emails

Emergency Pay Practices

Employee Assistance Program

Recommended list for at-work disaster bag

MOLI instructions to receive Emergency Management communications

Texas Children’s updates on social media and websites

Emergency Management Connect site

National Weather Service

School closures

Cris Daskevich
Administrator on-call

Wayne Chan
Emergency Management

Hurricane Harvey update no. 9: Sunday, 12:19 p.m.

Hurricane Harvey has had a significant impact on our local and broader community. Texas Children’s wants to thank you for all you are doing for our patients, families and colleagues. We also know how difficult it is to be away from your loved ones during this time and we encourage you to stay in contact with them for updates. If you feel you need additional emotional support, please call the page operator at ext. 4-2099 and they will page someone on the TANDEM team to assist. Click here for information from EAP on how we can best support each other during this time. We are all in this together and we are here for you.

With respect to Texas Children’s facilities, we have teams of individuals continually assessing each location to identify, prioritize and address building issues such as water leaks, equipment outages, supply needs, etc. We recognize there are currently a number of different areas with water leaks throughout our campuses. Facilities is assessing and prioritizing their response based on issues that impact patient care or Information Services. If you see a leak or any other facility-related issue, please report it to ext. 4-5000.

Please note, there have been numerous tornado warnings issued near West Campus, The Woodlands and in the Medical Center area. Only one was actually spotted. If you see a tornado, please call our command center at ext. 4-1179.

Payroll
To ensure timely payroll for the previous pay period in our current circumstances, payroll will automatically approve this week’s payroll and will put all emergency pay and punch corrections on future pay periods.

Please click the links below for updates on your specific area of the system.

Texas Medical Center Campus
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tmc-hurricane-updates/

West Campus
http://texaschildrensnews.org/west-hurricane-updates/

The Woodlands
http://texaschildrensnews.org/the-woodlands-hurricane-updates/

Texas Children’s Pediatrics and Urgent Care
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tcp-uc-hurricane-updates/

Texas Children’s Health Plan
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tchp-hurricane-updates/

Social media
We encourage you to remain conscious of what you are sharing on your social media accounts as there is heightened attention on the amazing work we do every day from the public and media. As a reminder, per the social media policy (4166), taking photos of patients and/or their families is prohibited. Feel free to follow Texas Children’s social media channels and share these updates.

Closures
Outpatient closures on Saturday, Sunday and Monday:
Texas Children’s Health Centers
Texas Children’s Hospital Texas Medical Center campus outpatient activities
Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands
Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus
Texas Children’s OBGYN/Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinics

The Centers for Children and Women
All locations are closed Saturday and Sunday.

Texas Children’s Urgent Care
All locations are closed Saturday.

Texas Children’s Pediatrics
All locations are closed Saturday.

We will continue to monitor closures and communicate any changes.

Helpful links

All past Harvey global emails

Emergency Pay Practices

Employee Assistance Program

Recommended list for at-work disaster bag

MOLI instructions to receive Emergency Management communications

Texas Children’s updates on social media and websites

Emergency Management Connect site

National Weather Service

School closures

Cris Daskevich
Administrator on-call

Wayne Chan
Emergency Management

Hurricane Harvey update no. 8: Sunday, 7:17 a.m.

As we continue to closely monitor weather conditions, we want to be sure to keep you as updated as possible. Over the past 24 hours, rainfall totals throughout the Houston area have ranged from 10 to 22 inches resulting in widespread flooding. Today, an additional 10 to 15 inches of widespread rain is expected with further heavy rain chances over the next few days.

The National Weather Service has issued additional flash flood warnings. METRO suspended service and the City of Houston has advised residents not to travel. Earlier this morning, the hospital deployed flood gates in West Tower, Wallace Tower and Feigin Tower to do everything we can to prevent flooding in our facilities.

For your safety, our staff at our hospitals should remain. If you at home, please do not try to come in. A comprehensive update will be provided later this morning.

Cris Daskevich
Administrator on-call

Wayne Chan
Emergency Management

Hurricane Harvey update no. 7: Saturday, 7:23 p.m.

Weather Update
Today, Hurricane Harvey produced 5-8 inches in the Houston area and projections for tonight are for strong storms. We will likely see times of clearing with heavy rain again Sunday and Monday mornings, and tornados remain possible. The storm is predicted to move back to the south before moving north again toward an area west of Houston Sunday through Wednesday.

Payroll
The payroll team is working closely with HR and wants to remind leaders to ensure timecards are accurate and approved by 10 a.m. Monday. For more information on emergency pay practices, click here. For Kronos clock-in information click here.

Please click the links below for updates on your specific area of the system.

Texas Medical Center Campus
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tmc-hurricane-updates/

West Campus
http://texaschildrensnews.org/west-hurricane-updates/

The Woodlands
http://texaschildrensnews.org/the-woodlands-hurricane-updates/

Texas Children’s Pediatrics and Urgent Care
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tcp-uc-hurricane-updates/

Texas Children’s Health Plan
http://texaschildrensnews.org/tchp-hurricane-updates/

Social media
We encourage you to remain conscious of what you are sharing on your social media accounts as there is heightened attention on the amazing work we do every day from the public and media. As a reminder, per the social media policy (4166), taking photos of patients and/or their families is prohibited. Feel free to follow Texas Children’s social media channels and share these updates.

Closures
Outpatient closures on Saturday, Sunday and Monday:
Texas Children’s Health Centers
Texas Children’s Hospital Texas Medical Center campus outpatient activities
Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands
Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus
Texas Children’s OBGYN/Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinics

The Centers for Children and Women
All locations are closed Saturday and Sunday.

Texas Children’s Urgent Care
All locations are closed Saturday.

Texas Children’s Pediatrics
All locations are closed Saturday.

We will continue to monitor closures and communicate any changes.

Helpful links

All past Harvey global emails

Emergency Pay Practices

Employee Assistance Program

Recommended list for at-work disaster bag

MOLI instructions to receive Emergency Management communications

Texas Children’s updates on social media and websites

Emergency Management Connect site

National Weather Service

School closures

Finally, please watch the news, and use your best judgment. We rely on you to stay informed and use good judgment in these situations to help keep yourself safe and to help us take the best possible care of our patients and their families. Thank you for your commitment!

We will continue to communicate additional updates.

Cris Daskevich
Administrator on-call

Wayne Chan
Emergency Management

A Message from President and CEO Mark A. Wallace: Hurricane Harvey: Saturday, 3:51 p.m.

Texas Children’s Family,

I know the past couple of days have been filled with uneasiness as Hurricane Harvey, a Category 4 storm, barreled down the coast, making its way to Houston. Because of the nature of the storm, the weather will continue to be unpredictable. More rain and the potential for widespread flooding is expected. We have not yet weathered this event.

As is the case every day at Texas Children’s, I am grateful for the care you provide our patients, their families and each other, but especially during this time when it means many of you are away from your homes and loved ones. I truly appreciate the commitment as we continue to come together as a team to deliver the highest possible care to those who need us most.

For those who helped prepare our organization for this storm, thank you. Your efforts have been invaluable to the team who arrived this morning. Our organization’s reach is bigger than ever, and will continue to grow, which means we are truly learning how to navigate these types of events together in ways we never have before. Leaders are meeting throughout the day and night to continue to assess the situation across the organization.

Please stay in touch with your leaders and team members, and remember that we are all doing the best we can. It never ceases to amaze me what we are able to accomplish together because, as you know, we are One Amazing Team!

Stay strong and safe,

Mark A. Wallace

Hurricane Harvey update no. 6: Saturday, 11:09 a.m.

Please note there may be some details below that do not apply to staff and employees in some parts of our system (i.e., Texas Children’s Health Plan, Texas Children’s Pediatrics). Additional communications will be provided to these employees as needed.

Weather update
Hurricane Harvey made landfall last night and as of 10 a.m. Saturday morning, remains a Category 1 Hurricane with the center of the storm near Victoria. We are forecasted to receive between 2-3 inches of rain per hour and 4-6 inches widespread today. While winds will gradually decrease this afternoon, isolated showers with weak tornados are possible. The storm will begin to move southeast today and tomorrow, offshore around Rockport and back onshore around Matagorda Bay on Tuesday. It is forecasted to continue northward Wednesday and Thursday, but West of Houston. The Houston area will remain on the wet side of the storm.

Staffing
All essential staff arrived at the hospital Saturday morning and are taking care of our patients and their families. If additional staff is needed, you will be contacted by your leader.

Food services and gift shops
For patients and employees currently at Texas Children’s Hospital or Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women, food services hours have been extended and will be available at the Pavilion for Women Bistro from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Gift shops on the 3rd floor of West Tower and 1st floor of Pavilion for Women will be open until 8 p.m. on Saturday.

Social media
As we come together as a team to ride out Hurricane Harvey, it’s important to remain focused on the care and safety of each other, our patients and their families. We know social media is a valuable tool you will utilize throughout the storm to update your family and friends. We encourage you to remain conscious of what you are sharing on your social media accounts as there is heightened attention on the amazing work we do every day from the public and media. As a reminder, per the social media policy (4166), taking photos of patients and/or their families is prohibited. For those of you at our hospitals, we would further discourage sharing any photos of your areas or the facilities during the storm. Feel free to follow Texas Children’s social media channels and share these updates.

Closures
Outpatient closures on Saturday, Sunday and Monday:
Texas Children’s Health Centers
Texas Children’s Hospital Texas Medical Center campus
Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands
Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus
Texas Children’s OBGYN/Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinics

The Centers for Children and Women
All locations are closed Saturday and Sunday.

Texas Children’s Urgent Care
All locations are closed Saturday.

Texas Children’s Pediatrics
All locations are closed Saturday.

We will continue to monitor closures and communicate any changes.

Helpful links

All past Harvey global emails

Emergency Pay Practices

Employee Assistance Program

Recommended list for at-work disaster bag

MOLI instructions to receive Emergency Management communications

Texas Children’s updates on social media and websites

Emergency Management Connect site

National Weather Service

School closures

Finally, please watch the news, and use your best judgment. We rely on you to stay informed and use good judgment in these situations to help keep yourself safe and to help us take the best possible care of our patients and their families. Thank you for your commitment!

We will continue to communicate additional updates this afternoon.

Cris Daskevich
Administrator on-call

Wayne Chan
Emergency Management

Hurricane Harvey Update No. 5: Friday, 6:27 p.m.

 Please note there may be some details below that do not apply to staff and employees in some parts of our system (i.e., Texas Children’s Health Plan, Texas Children’s Pediatrics). Additional communications will be provided to these employees as needed.

Weather update

Tropical Storm Harvey has been upgraded to a Category 4 hurricane. We will continue to have rain throughout the evening. There are no significant flood concerns, but some high water may occur in vulnerable areas. Please continue to monitor the weather situation in your area. Below are important updates.

Ride-out Activation

Due to the projection and severity of the storm, the decision has been made to call full activation for ride out beginning at 7 a.m. Saturday.

From that time forward, we will keep enough staff in house to provide 24-hour coverage for our inpatient operations and emergency services. That means the shift arriving at 7 a.m. should come in expecting to stay in house after their shift, potentially for several days. For most areas, it also means that personnel who are ending their shifts at 7 a.m. will need to stay in house and provide relief by going back on duty Saturday evening. As weather permits over the days that follow, we will call for fresh relief teams to come in for 1:1 replacement.

If you have any questions about how ride out procedures will work for your areas (or what your individual role assignment is), please contact your leader at your specific campus/work location.

Pay practices

Special pay practices will begin for non-exempt employees beginning at 7 a.m. Saturday for employees who have been assigned in a “ride-out” team. Click here for the details of our Emergency Pay Practices.

Food services

Food services will be available only at the Pavilion for Women Bistro from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Ride-out employees are strongly urged to bring a 3-4 day supply of non-perishable foods.

Sleeping accommodations

Sleeping accommodations will be available in Wallace Tower and Legacy Tower. Ride-out employees should report to the 3rd floor of Wallace Tower to receive a sleeping room assignment. For West and The Woodlands campuses, please check in with your leaders for sleep accommodations.

Flood doors and parking

Additional parking is available at Fannin Tower from the Main St. entrance starting at 6 p.m. and will continue to be available through next week. Employees will need to show their Texas Children’s ID badge to enter the garage. We will continue to monitor water levels and will implement plans to close flood doors and garages as necessary.

Dependent care

We strongly urge you to make arrangements for your children and elderly dependents with a responsible adult as there are no onsite dependent care options available at Texas Children’s at this time.

Closures

Outpatient closures on Saturday, Sunday and Monday:

Texas Children’s Health Centers

Texas Children’s Hospital Texas Medical Center campus

Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands

Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus

Texas Children’s OBGYN/Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinics

 

Limited openings of Texas Children’s Pediatrics

The following Texas Children’s Pediatrics practices will be open half day Saturday:

Houston Pediatrics
Cohan/Masharani
Memorial

  • All other Texas Children’s Pediatrics practices not listed above are closed.
  • The Centers for Children and Women will be closed on Saturday and Sunday. The Centers will be open Monday unless otherwise announced.
  • Texas Children’s Urgent Care locations will continue normal operations until notified otherwise.

We will decide over the weekend if any closures should extend beyond Monday.

Helpful links

All past Harvey global emails

Emergency Pay Practices

Employee Assistance Program

Recommended list for at-work disaster bag

MOLI instructions to receive Emergency Management communications

Texas Children’s updates on social media and websites

Emergency Management Connect site

National Weather Service

School closures

Finally, please watch the news, and use your best judgement. We rely on you to stay informed and use good judgment in these situations to help keep yourself safe and to help us take the best possible care of our patients and their families. Thank you for your commitment.

We will continue to communicate additional updates as the situation warrants throughout the next several days.

Tropical Storm Harvey Update No. 4: Friday, 1:46 p.m.

 Please note there may be some details below that do not apply to staff and employees in some parts of our system (i.e., Texas Children’s Health Plan, Texas Children’s Pediatrics). Additional communications will be provided to these employees as needed.

Tropical Storm Harvey is continuing to develop. The Greater Houston area will continue to have rain throughout today. There are no significant flood concerns today, but some high water may occur in vulnerable areas. Please continue to monitor the weather situation in your area. Below are important updates.

Closures. We are continuing normal operations today, but we are closing all clinics and canceling all outpatient procedures at the three Texas Children’s Hospital campuses on Saturday, Sunday and Monday, including the Texas Medical Center campus, West Campus and The Woodlands. We are also closing Texas Children’s Health Centers, The Centers for Children and Women and the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinics for Saturday, Sunday and Monday. We will decide over the weekend if the closures should extend beyond Monday.

A limited number of Texas Children’s Pediatrics practices are open half day on Saturday. Please check the Texas Children’s Pediatrics Facebook page for specific information. All Texas Children’s Urgent Care locations will continue normal operations until notified otherwise.

A note about renal patients: Renal patients are being contacted directly by the clinic. They may also check the Rena D social media pages for updates: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/rena.dee.35) and Twitter (https://twitter.com/renadeeamb).

Ride out labor pool. Leaders are currently determining who will be needed for the labor pool if ride-out is activated. Please contact your leader if you have questions about your role.

Shutting down workstations. As you leave the office today in non-clinical areas, ensure your computer and monitor are moved away from the windows of your office and powered down completely.

1:1 Handoffs. 1-to-1 replacement will begin this evening at the hospital campuses. Please plan for additional travel time, identify alternate routes, ensure your personal at-work disaster bag is ready, and have your personal plans in place.

Public transportation. If you are planning to travel to work by Metro bus or rail, ensure you have an alternate means of transportation, as service may be limited this weekend. Also, be certain to fill up your gas tank in case fuel is limited in the next few days.

Flood doors, garages entrances and parking. Additional parking will be available at Fannin Tower from the Main St. entrance beginning at 6 p.m. this evening through next week. We will continue to monitor water levels and will implement plans to close flood doors and garages as necessary.

Child care and elder care. We do understand there are many school closures and we strongly urge you to make arrangements for your children and elderly dependents with a responsible adult as there are no onsite dependent care options available at Texas Children’s at this time.

At-work disaster bag. Your at-work disaster bag should be ready to go with at least three days of essential supplies. Click here for a recommended list of what to bring.

Emergency communications for employees. Make sure you stay up to date with Texas Children’s Emergency Management communications, which will be sent via texts, phone calls and emails through the Texas Children’s Notification System. Update your personal information in MOLI. Instructions here.

All emergency Weather Alert emails also will be posted on our external news site, accessible from any device: www.texaschildrensnews.org.

More information, including the latest weather, traffic, and road conditions, is available on the Emergency Management Connect site and through the National Weather Service website.

Texas Children’s updates for the community. You also can follow real-time updates from Texas Children’s. Click here for a list of our social media channels and websites.

Finally, please watch the news, and use your good judgement. We rely on you staying informed and using good judgment in these situations to help keep yourself safe and help us take the best possible care of our patients and their families. Thank you for your commitment.

We will continue to communicate additional updates as the situation warrants throughout the next several days.

Cris Daskevich
Administrator on-call

Wayne Chan
Emergency Management

Tropical Storm Harvey Update No. 3: Prepare now, Thursday, 8:15 p.m. 

Harvey is rapidly intensifying into the third hurricane of the season and may possibly become a Category 3 when it reaches landfall along Texas’ coast. As a result, the Greater Houston area is expected to receive very heavy rainfall, storm-surge flooding and high winds beginning on Saturday and into early next week.

We are continuing normal operations, but we are following the weather closely and will make decisions about outpatient care and elective activities over the weekend. However, it is very important that we as an organization make preparations now for our families and for our patients and their families. Please make every effort to secure your loved ones and help us ensure the safety of the patients and families depending on our care and leadership.

Specifically, please be mindful of the following as you prepare:

1:1 Handoffs. 1-to-1 replacement will begin Friday evening. Please plan for additional travel time, identify alternate routes, ensure your personal at-work disaster bag is ready, and have your personal plans in place.

Public transportation. If you are planning to travel to work by Metro bus or rail, ensure you have an alternate means of transportation, as service may be limited this weekend. Also, be certain to fill up your gas tank in case fuel is limited in the next few days.

Flood doors, garages entrances and parking. At this point, there has been no decision to close the flood doors or the garage entrances. We will continue to monitor the weather and make decisions regarding the garages as appropriate.

Child care and elder care. We do understand there are many school closures during severe weather events. However, we strongly urge you to make arrangements for your children with a responsible adult rather than bringing them to work. This is very important to ensure the safest care for both our patients and for your children, as we will have limited staff and volunteers on hand.

At-work disaster bag. Your at-work disaster bag should be ready to go with at least three days of essential supplies. Click here for a recommended list of what to bring.

Emergency communications for employees. Make sure you stay up to date with Texas Children’s Emergency Management communications, which will be sent via texts, phone calls and emails through the Texas Children’s Notification System. Update your personal information in MOLI. Instructions here.

All emergency Weather Alert emails also will be posted on our external news site, accessible from any device: http://texaschildrensnews.org/.

More information, including the latest weather, traffic, and road conditions, is available on the Emergency Management Connect site and through the National Weather Service website.

Texas Children’s updates for the community. You also can follow real-time updates from Texas Children’s via:

It’s important that we all remain calm, positive and mindful of our obligation to be here to provide uninterrupted care for our patients and their families. By the same token, we also want you to be safe. We rely on your judgment in these situations to balance the need for your presence here with our desire to ensure you are not putting yourself in harm’s way.

Thank you for your commitment to caring for our patients and their families. We will continue to communicate additional updates as the situation warrants.

Cris Daskevich
Administrator on-call

Wayne Chan
Emergency Management

Tropical Storm Harvey Update No. 2: Thursday, 10:30 a.m.

Texas Children’s leadership and the Department of Emergency Management are continuing to closely monitor Tropical Storm Harvey, which is expected to make landfall as a hurricane late Friday. Tropical storm warnings are in effect from north of Matagorda to High Island, including Houston and Galveston. A hurricane warning has been issued for a portion of the Texas coast, from north of Port Mansfield to Matagorda, including the city of Corpus Christi.

At this point, the Greater Houston area is expecting a potential threat of heavy rainfall, increased winds and severe storms beginning Friday morning through possibly Tuesday morning, depending on how the storm tracks after landfall.

Texas Children’s Emergency Management team is urging employees to pay attention to local media reports concerning weather conditions, as the Houston area may receive significant rainfall with subsequent flooding in the next few days.

Staff members should be prepared for 1-to-1 replacement if travel conditions are unsafe in and around our Texas Children’s locations throughout Greater Houston. Please plan for additional travel time, identify alternate routes, ensure your personal emergency preparedness bags are ready, and have your personal plans in place.

In addition, make sure you stay up to date with Texas Children’s Emergency Management communications. These will be sent via texts, phone calls and emails through the Texas Children’s Notification System. Please make sure your personal information is updated in MOLI with your current mobile phone number so that you receive all messages in a timely manner. Here are the instructions for updating your information in MOLI.

More information, including the latest weather, traffic, and road conditions, is available on the Emergency Management Connect site and through the National Weather Service website.

Thank you for your commitment to caring for our patients and their families. We will continue to communicate additional updates as the situation warrants.

Cris Daskevich
Administrator on-call

Wayne Chan
Emergency Management

Inclement weather expected this weekend: Wednesday, 3:38 p.m.

Texas Children’s leadership and the Department of Emergency Management are closely monitoring Tropical Depression Harvey. A hurricane watch has been issued for a portion of the Texas coast, from north of Port Mansfield to San Luis Pass, including Corpus Christi and Victoria. At this point, the Greater Houston area is expecting a potential threat of heavy rainfall and severe storms beginning Friday morning through mid-day Monday.

Texas Children’s Emergency Management team is urging employees to pay attention to local media reports concerning weather conditions, as the Houston area may receive significant rainfall with subsequent flooding in the next few days.

Staff members should be prepared for 1-to-1 replacement if travel conditions are unsafe in and around our Texas Children’s locations throughout Greater Houston. Please plan for additional travel time, identify alternate routes, ensure your personal emergency preparedness bags are ready, and have your personal plans in place.

In addition, make sure you stay up to date with Texas Children’s Emergency Management communications. These will be sent via texts, phone calls and emails through the Texas Children’s Notification System. Please make sure your personal information is updated in MOLI with your current mobile phone number so that you receive all messages in a timely manner. Here are the instructions for updating your information in MOLI.

More information, including the latest weather, traffic, and road conditions, is available on the Emergency Management Connect site and through the National Weather Service website.

Thank you for your commitment to caring for our patients and their families. We will communicate additional updates as the situation warrants.

Cris Daskevich
Administrator on-call

James Mitchell
Emergency Management