UPHS - Bell Heroes | Jason Hamlin, MLT
October 18, 2024
What is your role at UPHS – Bell?
I am a medical lab technician at UP Health System – Bell.
What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?
I enjoy science and also helping people. Working in the laboratory is perfect as I get to talk and interact with patients while also helping providers find answers that will help patients.
What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?
My main position in the lab is preparing samples to be sent out to reference laboratories and verifying the results as they come in. I also jump in and help wherever I am needed. From drawing blood to processing samples on the tests that we perform here at the UPHS – Bell laboratory.
How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?
I have worked at Bell for 14.5 years. I have always worked in the laboratory. I worked as a phlebotomist for three years before working as a lab technician.
What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?
There has been more automation in testing in recent years with more specific and accurate results. Testing time has been decreased, leading to faster results for the providers so they can more quickly help patients.
What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem?
I enjoy spending time outdoors taking my three children to run around in the woods. Mountain biking on the RAMBA trails is always a good time as they are a challenge to ride. I like to ride fast and take chances! I enjoy helping my family and anyone who asks with tasks that I happen to know about (Jack of all trades, master of none) or if all they need is brute strength, I have that too.
What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Bell?
All of my coworkers and the providers here at Bell.