UP Health System – Bell Heroes | Rhonda Oja, MT - ASCP
January 17, 2025
What is your role at UPHS – Bell?
I work as a technician in the Laboratory.
What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?
Medicine has always been my passion. I was originally headed to med school until my health failed; so I went another direction.
What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?
A typical day involves running quality control on analyzers, prepping specimens, running specimens on analyzers, troubleshooting or calibrating analyzers if needed, and drawing patients. Every day is original—some are routine; however, surprises and challenges show up at all times.
How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?
I have been at Bell for eight years. I have gone from part-time to full-time.
What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?
COVID brought significant changes, including an increase in testing volume surpassing pre-COVID levels, updates to documentation for Joint Commission accreditation, and adjustments in testing operations due to reorganization.
What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem?
Quilting, camping, gardening, reading, cooking and visiting family.
Black Rocks on Presque Isle, Kitch-iti-kipi springs and the lake during a big storm.
What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Bell?
The people I work with and meet doing my job in a small hospital.