Medical Assistants Recognition Day
Every October we celebrate the vital role of medical assistants in the healthcare field. For many, medical assistants are the heart and soul of healthcare, and we could not agree more.
What Makes Medical Assistants Important
We consider our Medical Assistants essential healthcare workers due to the scope of their responsibilities, interacting with physicians, patients, and other employees in virtually every healthcare aspect.
They are often the first point of contact for patients. Their demeanor, knowledge, and empathy creates a positive experience for patients, ensuring patient satisfaction.
Daily Responsibilities of Medical Assistants
Medical assistants are frequently the bridge between clinical and administrative duties. As such, their daily responsibilities include checking patients in, collecting samples, organizing patient charts, dealing with insurance companies, and assisting physicians. In essence, their job consists of ensuring things run as smoothly as possible and providing patients with optimal care.
Medical Assistant Highlights
We wish we could individually highlight all of our medical assistants because they are each, truly exceptional human beings. However, while this is not possible, we felt we could all benefit from getting to know a few of them a little better.
For this reason, we interviewed two of our valuable Medical Assistants. Here is an excerpt from our conversations.
Mari Alice Brown
Q/ When did you become a medical assistant, and why?
A/ I started working in the medical field in 2007. I wanted to help others and be of service. I’ve enjoyed working in acute care, cardiac, ER, pediatrics, NICU, clinical float team, and now working with our amazing Altus team.
Q/ How long have you worked for Altus Biologics?
A/ It will be one year on 11/11/20.
Q/ What was your proudest moment as a medical assistant?
A/ I have several, including being able to help calm children in pediatrics during traumatic moments, holding and soothing newborns who were withdrawing from drugs in the NICU, and most recently being asked to be part of the Implementation team here with Altus. I can’t wait to help our newest clients transition their patients into our collective care.
Q/ What is your favorite thing about being a medical assistant?
A/ Meeting new people and helping them feel better.
Q/ What has been the biggest challenge associated with being an MA during the COVID-19 pandemic?
A/ Having to tell patients there would be delays in their treatments. It was difficult not to give them immediate help with their pain and symptoms.
Q/ What are some things you enjoy doing outside of your work as a medical assistant?
A/ I love to travel (I’ve been to 43 states and three countries and can’t wait to see so many more), crafting, cooking, baking, and spending time with my family and friends.
Q/ If you could compare yourself to an animal, what would it be and why?
A/ One of my Shih Tzu’s, they like to nap, be outside and snuggle, all things I love to do.
Jennifer Terral
Q/ When did you become a medical assistant, and why?
A/ Feb. 2005. I love to take care of others. I believe it was my calling.
Q/ How long have you worked for Altus Biologics?
A/ Since March 6, 2017.
Q/ What was your proudest moment as a medical assistant?
A/ Feb 2020 when I received the ACE Award from Altus Biologics. I was truly surprised.
Q/ What is your favorite thing about being a medical assistant?
A/ Knowing that what I do can make a difference in the patients’ daily lives.
Q/ What has been the biggest challenge associated with being an MA during the COVID-19 pandemic?
A/ Being stuck at home. I am a people person.
Q/ What are some things you enjoy doing outside of your work as a medical assistant?
A/ Spending time with my husband/daughter/son in law/grandkids and friends. Supporting live music, trying new restaurants, spending time at the beach.
Q/ If you could compare yourself to an animal, what would it be and why?
A/ Dog – No matter how your day is, they are always happy to see you. They are loyal, loving, forgiving, and comfort you through the rough times, and make you laugh when you need it the most.
Brandy Freeman
Q/ When did you become a medical assistant, and why?
A/ I have been a Medical Assistant for five years. I love it because I love to help others and this is never boring!
Q/ How long have you worked for Altus Biologics?
A/ June 13th marked my fourth anniversary with Altus.
Q/ What was your proudest moment as a medical assistant?
A/ Having Rheumatoid Arthritis myself, being diagnosed at 18 months, I am able to bond with the patients differently and understand them on a more intimate level.
Q/ What is your favorite thing about being a medical assistant?
A/ I love seeing patients that come into their appointments in a walker or wheelchair and then see them a couple visits later, and they come in walking! To be a part of that change in their quality of living makes my job so rewarding.
Q/ What has been the biggest challenge associated with being an MA during the COVID-19 pandemic?
A/ Adapting to the different changes in rules and regulations. Also the personalities and mindsets of people.
Q/ What are some things you enjoy doing outside of your work as a medical assistant?
I love hanging out at home with my husband Alex and three pugs Mugsy, Lulu, Dottie. Alex and I love going to concerts, swimming, watching movies, and traveling!
Q/ If you could compare yourself to an animal, what would it be and why?
A/ I love dogs. I would probably be a dog. I am very outgoing and loyal. I don’t know a stranger!
Altus Biologics is a proud supporter of Medical Assistants Recognition Day. We know first-hand the critical and versatile role they play in healthcare. Every day, they help improve administrative and clinical procedures that ultimately provide patients with the best care.
As always, we wish to recognize our employees’ hard work and dedication, and we are excited about the opportunity to honor the magnificent work of our Medical Assistants.
