UP Health System – Marquette Heroes | Ashley Childs and Shumete Sam

What is your role at UPHS – Marquette?

Ashley Childs: I am a Medical Assistant with UP Health System – Marquette Sleep Medicine.

Shumete Sam: I am a Certified Medical Assistant with UP Health System – Marquette Sleep Medicine.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare? 

Ashley Childs: Growing up, I always had the urgency to help others. To make a small difference in a patient's day-to-day life makes it all worth it.

Shumete Sam:  The science aspect of the profession and helping patients with their health issues has always been a motivating factor. My sister is finishing up with nursing school and that has definitely impacted my interest even more. I have a plan to go to a physician assistant (PA) school, and seeing patients treated and have a quality life has confirmed my desire to go further in the healthcare field.  

What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?

Ashley Childs: A typical day for me in the office is different from day to day. I spend my time checking patients in for their appointments, getting vitals and verifying insurance. As well as scheduling patients for their consultation and sleep studies.

Shumete Sam:  A typical day for me would be calling patients with new referrals, checking in and out new incoming patients as well as taking vitals. I also submit prior authorization for services needed and reach out to patients to discuss results and treatment plans. 

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?

Ashley Childs: I have been employed with Sleep Medicine for over a year now. I have been in the same position since.

Shumete Sam: I’ve been with UPHS – Marquette for almost three years. I started in 2022 at the registration department and went on to be a medical assistant in Respiratory Medicine. For the past year or so I have been working in Sleep Medicine. 

What are some of the big changes you've experienced in this position?

Ashley Childs: Coming into this position I did not know much about sleep apnea and how much it can affect someone's day-to-day life. I've experienced a lot of growth and challenges coming into this position. I truly enjoy it as each day is different and my knowledge continues to expand.

Shumete Sam:  I’ve worked in three different departments and each one had some changes. Transitioning from registration to Respiratory, the changes made were expanding the clinic and getting more providers. That expansion has been beneficial to service the community in a big way. A little bit over a year ago we got a new sleep doctor which is why I transferred to that department. There were a lot of needs for it as well, and I’ve been working in the sleep department since learning a lot.  

What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem? 

Ashley Childs: Outside of work, you can find me spending time with my kids, Easton and Milah. I love watching my son play in his sporting events, whether it be basketball or baseball. I enjoy spending hot summer days at the lake with my kids, as well as going for bike rides. As far as a local gem I would have to say Presque Isle Sunset Point is one of my favorites. There is nothing better than catching a sunset at the end of a summer day.

Shumete Sam: I enjoy going for a run and biking on the beautiful trails here in the Upper Peninsula (UP) and playing soccer with the local teams. I love spending time with my husband, friends and family, as we explore more of the UP. 

What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Marquette?

Ashley Childs: I'm thankful for the friendships I've gained by working at UPHS. I've met many new faces along the way. As well as my coworkers, they're the best group of people to work alongside every day.

Shumete Sam: I do enjoy how much I’m learning from the doctors and the people I work with. I also enjoy the interaction with patients and the people I work with in addition to having a great boss.