UPHS – Marquette Heroes | Sally Robie

What is your role at UPHS – Marquette?

I am a quality management assistant at UP Health System – Marquette.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?

I was always interested in the medical/legal transcription field and did some training in that area. When I lived in New York, I worked for the county health department and transcribed the home nursing visit notes. After moving to K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base with my husband, I worked in different jobs until an opportunity came up in the Quality Management Department at the hospital.

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

Every day can be an adventure! You never know if it’ll be a routine work day or if a surveyor/auditor will walk through the door.

A lot of what I do is routine background support that is detail-oriented (supplies, meeting support, scheduling special events, department staff orientation, patient surveys/calls, survey support for The Joint Commission/Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, etc.). We do much in the background to support the hospital and improve patient outcomes, especially with the Blue Cross Blue Shield Collaboratives. 

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

I’ve worked here for just over 27 years. I started work as a secretary working under the direction of the Quality Management Assistant. I learned a lot in the role and then eventually moved into the Assistant role.

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

Going from paper and the old style duplication methods (mimeographs, tape recorders, and recording typewriters) into the digital age with cell phones, laptops, shared drives, and Microsoft Teams, etc.!!

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

Spending time with family (in Michigan and out of state), participating in our local archery league, golfing, and reading.

Local gem(s): Presque Isle and Laughing Whitefish Falls. Nature itself is amazing in its many forms!

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

Being part of an amazing team that helps to promote better patient outcomes!