UPHS – Portage Heroes | Anna Gaffney, DME Coordinator

What is your role at UPHS – Portage? 
I am the DME Coordinator at the Apothecary Home Medical Equipment (HME) store for UP Health System – Portage.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?
My family! Most of them also work in healthcare and they were the main inspiration for joining Portage. I love helping people in any way that I can both at work and outside of work. 

What's a typical day like for you?
It seems like no two days are the same. The Apothecary HME is the only local store that provides home medical equipment. It's a big responsibility and we try our best to take care of every person who walks through our doors. We handle CPAPs, walkers, wheelchairs, nebulizers, etc. So you can imagine, there is never a shortage of work to do.

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?
I started with UP Health System – Portage over seven years ago in the food service department. In February of 2018, I moved to the pharmacy and HME office as the HME Assistant. By October, I took the DME Coordinator position. It was a big challenge, and I have learned a lot along the way—there is always something new to learn. 

What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?
As the DME Coordinator, it is my job to know the ever-changing insurance guidelines and requirements so I can better help our patients through our office and facility. This was and still is one of the biggest challenges, especially when COVID-19 hit in 2020. 

What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem? 
I love working with the donkeys on our farm. Riding horses, snowshoeing and walking my dog Bear are also a few favorites. Other than that, you can find me fishing, hunting and four-wheeling. My favorite local gem (and favorite place to eat) is out in Covington—the Hardwood Steakhouse. They have the best burgers and steaks around!

What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Portage? 
My coworkers are the best part! Everyone is so easy to get along with and I love the community we have built here, helping each other out and teaming up to take care of our patients. Thank you everyone for all that you do!