1.

What brought you to Mayo Clinic, and how long have you been here?

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital was doing a restructuring and I was told my job of working in the Molecular Lab would be eliminated the following year. So, I started to inquire about other opportunities elsewhere where I could perform the same tasks I was currently doing. It just so happened that Mayo Clinic Laboratories had an opening for a neurology clinical specialty representative within the southern Ohio area. The roles were very similar, so I applied, interviewed, and was grateful that Mayo hired me! I have been here for six years now. Where has the time gone?!

Doug Smith

2.

What’s your current role and what does a typical workday look like for you?

I am responsible for promoting Mayo Clinic’s core values and supporting community-based health care and integrated delivery systems through the sale of Mayo Clinic Laboratories tests.

A typical workday could involve me traveling from hospital to hospital working with laboratory directors so that we can effectively provide them with the best diagnostic testing for their patients. I always try to meet directly with providers at those systems and update them on all the new changes and tests developments that occur throughout the year.

3.

How do you think your work benefits providers and patients?

I truly believe the things we do every day are essential to helping to improve patient care. The diagnostic tests that are developed and launched help provide answers not only for providers but for patients as well. “The needs of the patient come first,” and our jobs are centered around that statement.

4.

Is there anything about you or your job that others might find surprising?

Yes. I have worked for other health organizations in the past but the amount of respect that Mayo has around the world is astonishing. I don’t know the actual percentage, but I think at least 60% or more of providers rely heavily on Mayo when it comes to deciding on what’s best for their patients. It is truly remarkable.

5.

Which part(s) of your job is the most challenging, and why?

The most challenging part of my job is trying to get access to providers. Because we have so many tests that are constantly being developed, many times we need to inform providers about the changes and new tests that will soon be at their disposal. These changes will help them diagnose their patients better and more efficiently. However, because they are seeing patients in their offices, at the clinics, and other places, it can be difficult to find the time to meet with them.

6.

What gives you meaning and purpose in your work?

The fact that I am providing a service that I know can potentially save lives drives me every day. I am very passionate about working for Mayo Clinic because it is all about the patient. I feel very connected to something bigger than me and knowing that people all over the world are getting the best care possible from the best health care organization in the world speaks for itself.