Professional patient advocacy specialist with strong focus on team collaboration and achieving results. Adept at navigating complex healthcare systems, advocating for patient rights, and ensuring optimal care outcomes. Known for dependability, flexibility, and effective communication in high-stress environments. Skilled in conflict resolution, patient education, and healthcare policy.
Overview
1
1
Certification
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Patient Advocate (Acting)
Veteran Health Administration Orlando, FL
2026.07 - Current
Office of Patient Advocacy (OPA) and Follows Health Service Area (HAS 2.3) guidelines for documenting Veterans complaints in the PATS_R system and coordinate resolutions with service level advocates and fellow patient advocates.
Apply OPA guidance and VA policy in daily operations.
Assist in conflict resolutions and contribute to Quality Improvement for the team.
Demonstrate strong communication and relationship-building skills throughout the VA.
Support compliance efforts to achieve Accreditation (The Joint Commission) for the department and the VA.
Provide leadership and professional guidance; serve as primary PATS_R trainer to all VA Medical staff.
Handle complex patient concerns and complaints escalated to the next level.
Conduct data analysis and reporting (PATS, Excel), identifying trends and sharing reports with senior leadership.
Act as backup timekeeper for Veteran Experience Office staff and multimedia staff.
Have strong knowledge of VA policies, VISN operations, and veteran rights.
Treat all individuals with respect and dignity.
Patient Representative
Veteran Health Administration Orlando, FL
2022.06 - Current
Follow VISN guidelines for documenting Veterans complaints in the PATS_R system and coordinate resolutions in collaboration with service level advocates and fellow patient advocates.
Adhere to OPA guidance and VA policy.
Assist in conflict resolutions daily.
Dedicate efforts to Quality Improvement for our team.
Excel at communication and relationship-building throughout the VA.
Provide leadership and professional guidance.
Serve as the primary PATS_R trainer to all VA Medical staff.
Resolve complex patient concerns and complaints escalated to the next level,enhancing patient satisfaction and trust.
Conduct data analysis and reporting (PAT_R, Excel), identify trends, and report to senior leadership.
Backup timekeeper for the Veteran Experience Office staff and multimedia staff.
Possess strong knowledge of VA policies, HSA 2.3 operations, and veteran rights.
Treat all individuals with respect and dignity.
Resolve patient inquiries and concerns efficiently, enhancing overall patient satisfaction.
Certified Ophthalmic Technician/Photographer
Veteran Health Administration Orlando, FL
2012.06 - 2022.06
Senior Technician performing Angiograms, comprehensive diagnostic testing. Testing and receiving new equipment and training all staff. Collaborated with leadership on patient care. Updated and organized the MSDS booklet for the eye clinic.
Conducted comprehensive ocular assessments, ensuring accurate patient records and effective diagnosis support.
Assisted ophthalmologists during surgical procedures, maintaining sterile environments and managing instruments efficiently.
Educated patients on pre-operative and post-operative care, enhancing understanding and compliance with treatment plans.
Supervisor/ ophthalmic photographer/ Technician
Central Florida Retina
2006.07 - 2012.06
Supervised and managed operations across multiple locations. I did Conducted performance appraisals to evaluate employee contributions and development needs.. Facilitated training sessions on new techniques to enhance team skills.. Implemented customer service recovery strategies to resolve client issues effectively.. Working with Physician on policies and procedures to run the clinics. Reassigned staffing daily to meet clinic operational requirements. for needs in each clinic daily. Participated in case studies for macular degeneration medication.
Supervised daily operations to ensure compliance with clinical protocols and patient care standards.
Trained staff on best practices for retina diagnostics and treatment procedures.
Collaborated with healthcare professionals to streamline patient scheduling and enhance service delivery.
Education
Holyoke Community College
2003-01
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Westfield State University
2003-01
Skills
Strong patient communication & customer service
Data entry proficiency
Email Management
Time Keeping
HIPAA law compliance
Attention to detail
Problem-solving abilities
Conflict resolution techniques
Certification
Supervisor Ready Course Certificate 2/3/2026, JCAHPO Certification 1992- Present, Notary Public July 20008- Present
Expert Patient Advisor/Lead Patient Advocate at Maria Hadjidemetriou ConsultantExpert Patient Advisor/Lead Patient Advocate at Maria Hadjidemetriou Consultant