UPHS – Portage Heroes | Lexi Pyykkonen

What is your role at UPHS – Portage? 
I am the Executive Assistant to our executive team at UP Health System - Portage. 

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?
Growing up, being a doctor was never a dream of mine — instead, I was interested in being a teacher. I knew I wanted to find a career that allowed me to help people, but a hospital setting didn’t seem like the right fit. Until July 2021 when I applied for a job as a patient service representative (PSR). I enjoyed being able to help patients get the right care they needed and quickly realized that a career in healthcare may be where I belong. My position now has transitioned into a healthcare administrative role, which still offers me the ability to help others in healthcare, but in a different way.

What's a typical day like for you?
A typical day involves coordinating and managing the schedules of our CEO, CFO, and CNO. The majority of my day involves preparing and organizing meetings for our chief officers as well as the senior management team, Board of Trustees, and department leaders. I also have the opportunity to interact with staff throughout the hospital and members of our community. Working in this position has been rewarding as each day presents a new set of challenges!

How long have you been employed here?  
I started working at the Express Care Clinic in Houghton as a PSR in July 2021. Then, in June of this year, I transitioned into the Executive Assistant role.

What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?
One big change I experienced in this position was that I went from working with patients daily to not having any interaction with patients. The first few days were a little quiet. Any new position presents itself with big changes and some challenges, but I lucked out and everyone in our Administrative Office has been a huge help. I couldn’t have asked for a better transition into this position.

What are some of your interests outside of work? Where is your favorite local gem?
My favorite thing to do outside of work is spending time outside. In the summers, I enjoy golfing, hiking, and spending time at the lake, while during the winter, I enjoy playing hockey and snowshoeing. My favorite local gem to visit is Agate Beach.

What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Portage? 
The best thing about working at UPHS – Portage is the people and how much they care about our community!