What it’s like to work in the respiratory/pulmonary services department
December 09, 2024
Imagine working in a place where every day brings the opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life, and every team member plays an essential role in achieving that goal. At UHS, you join a community of dedicated professionals committed to delivering exceptional healthcare, embracing innovation and advancing patient-centered care. From the fast-paced environment of emergency services to the nuanced expertise required in specialized departments, UHS fosters a collaborative and supportive culture that encourages continuous growth, learning, and compassion. Here, your work is more than just a job — it's a chance to be part of a mission to improve lives, support communities, and advance the future of healthcare.
The UHS Pulmonary team is comprised of hard-working professionals striving for the best patient care. This team specializes in providing a full spectrum of respiratory care and pulmonary medicine services, focusing on effective airway management.
Respiratory and Pulmonary Medicine Services Include:
- Ventilator and airway management
- Medical gas administration
- Delivery of Respiratory Medication
- NICU Ground Transport
- Pulmonary Function Testing for adults and pediatric patients
- Polysomnography Testing
This department represents a strong reinforcement of the UHS Values of Teamwork and Innovation. Their dedication is displayed through the exceptional patient care they continuously strive for. With close ties to the local community, the Pulmonary team understands that together, they can make a difference and shape the future of patient-centered care.
Manager of Pulmonary Services, Trevor Flanagan, MHA, BS, RRT, reflected on the importance of his work and being a leader for the team, “Each day, I look forward to coming to work for my team.” He further states, “I always strive to put them in the forefront, make sure they get the respect and recognition that they deserve.”
Trevor’s dedication to the team has built a culture of recognition and support that does not go unnoticed. Janet Rendon, Registered Respiratory Therapist, acknowledges this, sharing, “He’s [Trevor] always trying to make us feel more involved and have more autonomy with our patients.”
The UHS Values are on full display throughout the respiratory therapy team, who demonstrate Compassion, Trust, Respect, Teamwork, and Innovation each day. Through connection, they are providing service to the community with care. The innovation of this team was recently on display this year as they launched the ION robotic bronchoscopy program this past Spring. Trevor states, “This has a huge impact on the community because it allows a service line that previously was not available. We’re able to go after smaller lesions in places we previously were unable to reach, and it comes back to the importance of screening for lung cancer.”
Not limited to this advancement, this department is dedicated to deepening the expertise of its team members. By providing a culture of growth opportunities, including the implementation of a career ladder, the department is able to thrive.
“I think the greatest satisfaction I’ve had thus far is being able to get the support needed to implement a career ladder for the respiratory therapy department. What this does is it really helps us invest in our staff, grow our staff and in turn, they are rewarded for going the extra mile, for getting the advanced credentialing,” said Trevor “This has had huge impacts not only on recruitment but retention on a whole. We’re really trying to build a department where we want to be the region’s best respiratory service line.”
The UHS Pulmonary team understands how vital connections are in healthcare, including with patients, team members and the community. Whether they’ve been in the role for a while, recently earned a promotion or are still adapting to the position, building connections, feeling a sense of unity and being part of something bigger are all essential to creating a true sense of belonging.
Janet, who joined the team earlier this year, knew she wanted to pursue a career at UHS after starting her clinicals, sharing, “Everyone was so welcoming, so helpful.” Now, Janet’s motivation stems from her coworkers, looking forward to seeing them each day. She goes on to say, “I know I can always count on them to help me with any situation I have.”
UHS Pulmonary takes part in achievement awards and educational programs. Among these is the PHIL (Pulmonary Health and Illness of the Lungs) Award, which recognizes those in the respiratory profession annually. UHS also provides education incentive programs for eligible employees. As Bailey Morgan, Registered Respiratory Therapist, states, “You truly never stop learning at UHS.”
Bailey, who is currently participating in UHS’ education incentive program, discusses the amplitude of opportunities and learning experiences available. In addition, she recognizes the “welcoming and supportive” attitudes of the Pulmonary team, and notes how they promote positivity. The department is vital to patient-centered care, as they coordinate with other departments to provide the best outcome. Establishing a supportive and encouraging atmosphere has led to growth and fulfillment for the team, along with exciting new developments and services for patients and the broader community.
The UHS Pulmonary team is dedicated to providing exceptional patient care through teamwork and collaboration. Rooted in the local community, they work together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of their patients. If you are interested in joining UHS to start your career in healthcare, please visit nyuhs.org/careers to see what career opportunities are currently available.