As a medical assistant, I room patients and interact with physicians to ensure they are receiving the best care possible. Each day I take patients’ vitals, medical histories, and prescription information as well as organize the schedule through the EpicCare system, and communicate with patients through the mail and over the phone. While accuracy in preparing charts is an important part of the job, I have also learned how to effectively communicate and listen to patients about their health concerns. Oftentimes, patients are uncomfortable about talking about their gastroenterology issues and coming to the doctor in general. So, making them feel as comfortable as possible is essential in obtaining all important information regarding their health and preparing them for the doctor’s visit. The longer I work, the more I learn about gastroeneteronlogy and as a result I have become increasingly confident in the limited medical advice and education I can offer to patients. This position has been a great opportunity to work with other healthcare professionals and learn skills for my future career as a physician assistant.

Medical Assistant

UPMC Gastroenterology Associates, November 2018- Present

  • Prepares patient rooms and charts and collects vitals using EpicCare schedule and computer system
  • Assists physicians with patient care and satisfaction by answering phone calls and organizing patient information

Student Research Assistant

Infant Communication Lab at the University of Pittsburgh, January 2017- October 2018

  • Analyzes video trials through coding protocols to the assess and compare behavior of children at high and low risks for Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Works as part of a team to become reliable and develop new coding procedures for future testing