Many patients and visitors entering UConn Health Center’s main building have received the type of greeting that is expected at a five-star hotel.

Since the addition of the patient ambassador position earlier this year, patients, visitors, and staff have been greeted with a smile by ambassador, Gail Sheehan. Sheehan begins her day at 5:30 a.m., greeting patients arriving for surgical procedures or staff reporting for early shifts. “It’s important to me to make everyone feel welcome as they come through our doors,” says Sheehan. “Some patients are frightened or anxious as they arrive, and a confident, warm smile puts people at ease,” she adds.

In addition to greeting individuals coming through the main doors, the ambassador serves as a patient advocate and liaison, answers questions, provides directions, helps patients to navigate around the campus, and much more. The ambassador also works very closely with the volunteer staff.

“I have received many letters from patients, visitors, and staff that are impressed with their interaction with our patient ambassador,” says Deb Abromaitis, director of Patient Support Services.

A recent patient writes, “What a wonderful reception everyone receives as they walk through the door. She is so pleasant and extremely helpful to all.”

Dr. Douglas Fellows, chairman of Diagnostic Imaging and Therapeutics, says, “Each day Gail greets us with a big smile and an even bigger heart. I see her putting patients at ease as they struggle to find their way, and put a smile on the faces of our staff as they begin their day.”

When asked what she likes best about her position, Sheehan responded by saying, “I love my job because I feel excellent service is the most important goal of the UConn Health Center. As an ambassador, I have the privilege and honor to make a positive first impression on those individuals who walk through our doors.”

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