Activity Summary #1

Completing the first 100 hours of my intern has been a success so far, from learning new tactics, health policies, knowledge, and skills. During my first couple of weeks, I was shadowing my preceptor so I could get the idea of how to use the computer system and the appropriate way to assist a patient telephone call. When the office was busy my task was to scan documents into the patient’s chart. I was enforced that every paper/ document containing patient information must be immediately shredded along the policy of keeping patients’ medical records confidential and private. This however was not something new to me considering the HIPPA laws I have learned in many courses throughout my Health Service Administration Program. Another thing I learned following the same guidelines was not allowing just anyone to pick up documents for a patient without their name being listed on the consent form. I witnessed a couple situations where people would walk in for information regarding someone and getting frustrated because they could not receive the information. Further along, interactions on a daily basis usually consisted of greeting patients, answering the telephone, checking patients in/out, relaying messages to the nurses regarding patient concerns, and discussions with my peer office representatives. I had to get comfortable with all the staff the first couple of weeks and afterwards, everything felt a little easier having great teamwork collaboration. This allowed me to strengthen my communication skills. When I struggled with certain task on the computer, someone was always eager to assist me. I am a fast learner, so I quickly caught on to the VCU Health computer system. Nonetheless, my experience so far has been great and convenient for my knowledge.