Employee Spotlight
Amanda Gates
Amanda Gates
EvergreenHealth Human Resources
Amanda Gates is a Benefits Specialist at EvergreenHealth Human Resources.
What inspired you to have a career in medicine?
I was particularly drawn to the healthcare field because of the pandemic, and I wanted to contribute to the well-being and care of others. I started at EvergreenHealth as a Patient Service Rep (PSR) in urgent care and this opportunity allowed me to see the positive impact healthcare professionals could make in people's lives during some of their most difficult times. As I gained more experience, I found my niche in Human Resources, specifically in Benefits. This specialty has allowed me to combine my background in customer service with my passion for helping and supporting people, specifically our employees. It is a fulfilling role that allows me to continue making a positive impact on individual lives, just from a slightly different angle.
Why did you choose to work at EvergreenHealth?
I joined EvergreenHealth shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic began because I felt a strong desire to help and be of service to people in my community. I have friends and family members in the medical field, some who work for EvergreenHealth, and the commitment that they and the hospital was providing was inspiring.
Have you grown professionally since your first day?
I have experienced significant professional growth since joining EvergreenHealth. I initially began as a PSR in urgent care, which provided me with a solid foundation in healthcare operations and patient interactions. I had support and guidance from exceptional leaders and their mentorship and the opportunities they provided have been instrumental in my growth.
Transitioning to the role of HR Assistant, I gained valuable experience in human resources, employee support, and the organizations dynamics. And in my most recent role as a Benefits Specialist, I have been given the privilege of working closely with employee benefits and supporting our staff's well-being.
Overall, my growth at EvergreenHealth has been driven by the unique opportunities and excellent leadership within the organization. I am continuously learning, adapting, and expanding my skill set, which has allowed me to contribute more effectively to the well-being of our employees and the success of EvergreenHealth.
What about working at EvergreenHealth motivates you?
I am motivated to come to work every day because of the same reason that I consider my favorite thing about working here: my colleagues and the exceptional culture that has been nurtured within our organization.
Even though my role doesn't directly involve patient care, I feel fortunate that I can be of service to those dedicated individuals who provide that essential care. Each day, I arrive at work with the knowledge that I can offer support to the incredible backbone of our hospital. If I can make their lives even slightly easier, I know it will have a positive ripple effect, ultimately enhancing the quality of care they provide to our patients.
Sheann Tartios, MA-C, AAMA
Sheann Tartios, MA-C, AAMA is a medical assistant in EvergreenHealth OB/GYN, Tan.
Sheann Tartios, MA-C, AAMA
EvergreenHealth OB/GYN, Tan
What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
I grew up in the Marshall Islands where healthcare was not as advanced as it is here, especially for women. I was inspired to have a career in medicine after seeing my community in a difficult state not being able to get the care they really needed.
Why did you choose to work at EvergreenHealth?
To work at EvergreenHealth was a big opportunity for me, especially after being fresh in the field. I wasn't sure which specialty I wanted to work in but on my very first day, I knew it was the best decision I've ever made. There is a family-like relationship you can create with your department. It's hard to find that anywhere in the world but I am very grateful for all the women I work with and the bonds that I've had the privilege to make.
Have you grown professionally since your first day?
100%. Not only have I grown professionally but I have also grown mentally.
The friendly and welcoming environment has inspired me to be myself. By working here, I've learned so much about myself and this has led me to grow both professionally and personally. I feel like I've grown out of my shell and I've taken opportunities that younger me probably wouldn't have taken. The environment is so welcoming that it is so easy, like second nature, to just be myself instead of trying to be someone I am not.
Although I don't mix my work and social life, this also applies to my life outside of work. Being at EvergreenHealth has helped me to learn many things that I never knew I could take and apply in my daily life.
What about working at EvergreenHealth motivates you?
The patients! I love coming to work every day knowing that I'll be working with many different people but I always look forward to seeing my patients. They are always so nice and understanding.
One patient that stands out to me was when a new patient came for a visit and she was very nervous about the procedure that was scheduled. The doctor spent some time with her explaining the process of the procedure and we were able to start.
She was still nervous but was ok with us starting the procedure and we explained every step and constantly reminded the patient that if she wanted to stop, she could. I was there to give moral support for and hold her hand through the whole procedure to help calm her nerves.
This was one of the moments that I was proud of and it just showed me how much we women have to go through, the pain, stress, emotional and physical distress, etc. It just showed me more of why I love working where I work.
