The Importance of a Skilled Phlebotomist: Stories from the Frontlines
We know our superior patient care wouldn’t be possible without our amazing, caring, and skilled phlebotomists. They are the face of HNL Lab Medicine, and they put patients first in all that they do. That’s why we interviewed some of our highly rated phlebotomists about their philosophy on patient care.
We wanted to know the secrets of their successful interactions with patients like you! These five phlebotomists were chosen due to their outstanding patient feedback, and they were happy to share their thoughts. Read more below to learn about what inspires their patient-first mindset.
Pain-free Positivity
Brittany Zaengle completed her externship at our Northampton facility and joined HNL Lab Medicine in 2016. She likes how convenient the entire process is for her patients. “Patients come first with HNL Lab Medicine, from beginning to end,” she says. “We do anything we can to make things easier, like our different ways to check-in and our online scripts for providers to eliminate the need for excessive paperwork.”
Brittany was modest about her excellent patient feedback. “Patients know best. My positive patient feedback is due to my positive, caring disposition. I treat my patients as people! Some of them are in here frequently for regular bloodwork and I get to know them.” She maintains that treating patients with compassion and building rapport is the secret to her success.
“For every patient, my priority is to make their experience as positive and pain-free as possible. No one likes needles! No one knows what the patient is going through. I try to lead with empathy and respect and want them to feel heard.”
Adeline Penny echoes the patient-first attitude. She has worked with HNL Lab Medicine for 15 years and has been a phlebotomist for nearly 25 years. “For me, when I come to work, it's all about the patient. I always tell them- you leave my PSC happy, I'm happy! I always try to make it a positive experience, so they want to come back. My philosophy is patients and patient care come first.”
Company Culture
Melody Snyder has worked as a phlebotomist for the past 16 years, 9 of which have been with HNL Lab Medicine. She believes that working for the right employer can make all the difference for phlebotomists and patients. “Working with this company has been a personally rewarding experience. During my time here I have learned so much from every individual, how to build trust and confidence, and the importance of kindness and compassion that goes far beyond patient care.”
Working as part of a supportive team allows our phlebotomists to focus on what matters and this aspect of our company culture is what Melody loves the most. “I love working for a place that puts patients first, looking at the whole person and their needs. Patient care requires a passion for diagnostic testing, dedication and commitment to others, and the ability to provide passionate medical care. I am happy to be a part of this company and among a team of amazing people.”
Scott Cahalane has been a phlebotomist for 13 years, with the past 5 of them at HNL Lab Medicine. He knows company culture plays a large role in the positive experiences with his patients. “HNL Lab Medicine prioritizes patient care by hiring and retaining the best and most qualified phlebotomists in the area. The company also treats employees well. Happy employees equal happy patients!”
Because of the collaborative environment of HNL Lab Medicine, Melody and her team members are able to focus on their favorite part of being a phlebotomist: patients! “Each patient I come in contact with brings something to me and I work to leave them with the knowledge that they are cared for.”
Family Values
Allison Check is grateful for her opportunity to work with patients and make a difference in their lives. “I have been with HNL for almost 4 years. I left briefly to continue my education, but realized my passion was phlebotomy. I came right back to HNL Lab Medicine without a second thought!”
“HNL Lab Medicine prioritizes patient experience by attending to each patient in a timely manner while at the same time attempting to build a relationship. We want to show that we are trustworthy.” She feels her family values are responsible for her success as a phlebotomist. “I would want someone who cares about me when getting my own blood drawn. I treat each patient like a family member. Each patient should be treated like a VIP! I strive to do my best every single day and hold myself to that.”
Scott echoes her sentiment. “My philosophy on patient care is simple. Treat everyone as a family member, not just a patient or number. No patient really wants to be stuck with a needle, so I try my best to make them feel comfortable and as welcomed as possible.”
Bloodwork can be an unpleasant experience for some, but Allison wants patients to know that it doesn’t have to be anxiety-inducing. “I take my time to give back to my patients. I want to see them again and show them that this isn't a scary thing. We are here to help and have the best training to do so.”
Thank your phlebotomist!
Thanks to amazing phlebotomists like these, HNL Lab Medicine gives patients the best possible experience. No one likes to complete lab work, but we do everything in our power to make it as painless, pleasant, and convenient as possible.
Our Patient Service Centers are staffed with skilled, compassionate phlebotomists, who are fully dedicated to your comfort and well-being. Join us in applauding our wonderful phlebotomists for their valuable, significant contributions- thank your phlebotomist today!