Happy Administrative Professionals Week: April 20-26

This Administrative Professionals’ Week, we take the opportunity to acknowledge the significant impact you have on Nova Scotia’s workplaces and within our union. Your hard work and your commitment are deeply appreciated. Together, as part of the NSGEU, you help make us stronger. Thank you for all you do!

Administrative Professionals’ Day, falls on Wednesday, April 23.

Click here to download our poster!

Below are member profiles featured in the Pre-Convention issue of the Stand, along with additional submitted profiles.

What is your name, where do you work and what do you do?

I am Andie Cote, and I currently serve as a Clerk for the Patient Support Line at the Nova Scotia Cancer Centre. In this role, I assist cancer patients by addressing their needs and requests between appointments. These include tasks such as processing medication requests, providing necessary documents, managing new symptoms, and scheduling appointments, ensuring patients receive timely support and care during their treatment journey.

How long have you been in the job and what drew you to this work in the first place?

Cancer has hit close to home, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve others navigating similar experiences. I have held my current position at the Nova Scotia Cancer Centre for four years, during which time I have been able to provide valuable support to cancer patients. I was seeking permanent, full-time employment when I began this role, and my background in public speaking, and customer service has allowed me to effectively connect with and assist individuals in their time of need.

Do you like your job? What do you like best about it?

I am deeply passionate about my role and take great satisfaction in connecting with clients on a one-on-one basis. The challenges of troubleshooting, problem-solving, and going the extra mile to ensure each patient’s needs are met are aspects of the job that I truly enjoy. Additionally, I am grateful for the flexibility that comes with the option to work from home, which allows me to balance my professional responsibilities while maintaining a healthy work-life dynamic.

Do you have a best day? Worst day?

Each day brings new experiences and challenges in my role. Our department handles approximately 110 calls daily, and I find great fulfillment in the variety of inquiries we receive. Being able to assist cancer patients throughout their journey is incredibly rewarding, and I take pride in offering support and guidance to individuals during such an important time in their lives.

What do you think the public should know about the work you do that they might not already be aware of?

When you call any medical facility, please know that we take care of your personal health information and respect your privacy. However, we need your correct health details to find you in our system and give you the best help possible.

What is your name, where do you work and what do you do?

My name is Norma MacNeil, and I am a Registration Clerk with Early Psychosis Mental Health and Addictions.
I manage appointment scheduling, handle faxes, emails, and phone calls, and confirm fax receipt with pharmacies. I ensure patient information is accurate in Star, label and send documents to One Content, and print daily resident schedules.
I help misplaced patients/visitors, and distribute bus passes, taxi chits, and parking passes. I send appointment reminders via text and support the family social worker in locating parent information in Star.

How long have you been in the job and what drew you to this work in the first place?

I have been working as a Clerk B since 2021, joining Nova Scotia Health during the COVID-19 pandemic with the primary goal of aiding during a critical time. I had the privilege of working alongside wonderful colleagues at the Dartmouth General drive-thru.
In April 2024, I transitioned to the Early Psychosis Mental Health and Addictions
Registration Clerk role because my previous position was shifting to 12-hour shifts, and I sought a role that would better suit my needs.

Do you like your job? What do you like best about it?

In my role, I have the privilege of interacting face-to-face with patients, which brings both challenges and great rewards. I often receive calls from concerned parents and listen to patients as they share their thoughts with me at my desk. What makes this work so meaningful is the opportunity to connect with patients on a personal level. Many have shared exciting milestones with me, such as starting school, beginning a new job, or expecting a child. It’s especially heartwarming when patients tell me that I’m their favorite on the team. Knowing that I can make a positive impact and help individuals with mental health concerns feel valued and special is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job.

Do you have a best day? Worst day?

The most challenging moments of my day occur when I have a parent in front of me, visibly distressed. It can be difficult to offer the right words of comfort as they navigate such trying circumstances. However, the most rewarding part of my day is when I’m able to resolve a patient’s issue efficiently, such as getting them to an urgent appointment. Being able to make a tangible difference in their care brings me a great sense of fulfillment.

What do you think the public should know about the work you do that they might not already be aware of?

It is essential for the public to recognize the importance of mental health and the significant role it plays in overall well-being. The work I do is vital in supporting patients and their families, and having the right professionals in place is crucial for providing the support and care needed. My role is an integral part of the team ensuring that individuals receive the proper care and attention they deserve.

What is your name, where do you work and what do you do?

My name Is Palak Desai. I work at Nova Scotia Health- Rehabilitation and arthritis center site as Booking and Registration Clerk- B.
Imagine walking into a bustling healthcare facility, where every second counts, and countless moving pieces need to come together perfectly. In the heart of all this, there’s a Clerk B, always on the go, quietly ensuring the wheels keep turning smoothly.
As the first point of contact, this Clerk B greets patients, helping them with registrations and guiding them through the necessary paperwork. With a warm smile, they schedule appointments, always double-checking that each patient is seen promptly and with care. They juggle multiple tasks at once – from updating health records to making sure files are filed correctly and confidentially.
Behind the scenes, they manage important communications, ensuring doctors, nurses, and staff are informed. They compile reports, keeping track of crucial data, and assist with billing, ensuring everything is in order for both patients and the healthcare team. It’s a job that requires organization, attention to detail, and a lot of patience. But most importantly, the Clerk B is a key player in ensuring that everything runs like clockwork, making sure patients feel taken care of and that no detail is overlooked.
In the fast-paced world of healthcare, the Clerk B is the calm that holds it all together.

How long have you been in the job and what drew you to this work in the first place?

I have been working with NS Health for 1.5 years. The idea of playing a role in something that directly impacts people’s well-being is inspiring. I realize that my knack for organization and my ability to stay cool under pressure is a perfect fit for this kind of work. So, I took the leap, and it turned out to be everything I hoped for—and more!
Every day, I wake up with a sense of purpose, knowing that I am not just filling out forms or making phone calls. I am a part of something much bigger: helping a team of dedicated professionals provide care, comfort, and support to those who need it the most. It’s more than just a job; it’s about making sure that, when life feels overwhelming, the little details don’t need to add to the stress. It’s about being the calm, the support, the backbone, all while working alongside others who share the same mission—to care for and help heal the community, one small task at a time.

Do you like your job? What do you like best about it?

Yes, I absolutely love my job. What I enjoy most is the sense of fulfillment that comes with knowing we’re part of a bigger picture. The work might seem small to some, but each task I handle directly impacts someone’s experience in the healthcare system. Whether it’s helping a patient navigate their first appointment or ensuring a doctor has all the information they need, it’s the little things that make a big difference.
What stands out the most is the connection with people. Whether it’s calming a nervous patient or working alongside a diverse team of healthcare professionals, as a Clerk B I find a deep satisfaction in those moments of collaboration and service. The role allows me to feel like I am doing something important, something that matters.

There’s also the thrill of the fast-paced environment—no two days are the same. I might be answering phone calls one minute and then running to fetch important files the next, all while handling unexpected challenges that keep the day interesting. It’s a job that keeps me on my toes, but that’s exactly what I love about it: the unpredictability and the chance to problem-solve, all while contributing to the smooth operation of a healthcare team.
At the end of the day, knowing I have helped a patient feel seen and heard, or helped the team stay on track, brings a quiet sense of pride.

Do you have a best day? Worst day?

Oh, there have been both best and worst days, but they each come with their own lessons and moments of reflection.
The best days are those when everything just clicks. Maybe it’s a particularly smooth shift where the appointments are all running on time, the phones aren’t ringing off the hook, and the team feels in sync. On these days, the Clerk B can step back and see the bigger picture: a system that’s running efficiently, where patients are getting the care they need without unnecessary delays, and the team is moving like a well-oiled machine. There’s something incredibly rewarding about knowing that, through their role, they’ve helped create that smooth flow. And there are moments, too, when a patient will express gratitude, maybe for helping them with a confusing form or explaining something in a way that made them feel more at ease. Those little thank-you can make a tough day feel worth it.
On the flip side, the worst days tend to be when things are chaotic, and it feels like nothing is going according to plan. It could be an unexpected influx of patients, a system malfunction, or dealing with an upset patient who’s frustrated with a long wait. On those days, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed trying to juggle too many things at once, with everyone needing something at the same time. There’s also the emotional toll of seeing patients in distress, wishing there were more time to help them.
But even the worst days teach something valuable. They remind the Clerk B of the importance of teamwork and patience. Sometimes, it’s about getting through the storm and knowing that tomorrow is another chance to make a difference. After all, it’s not always about having perfect days—it’s about showing up, doing the best you can, and keeping a positive outlook for the next shift.

What do you think the public should know about the work you do that they might not already be aware of?

One thing I wish the public knew is just how much goes on behind the scenes to make sure everything in healthcare runs smoothly. People often see the doctors, nurses, and healthcare providers doing the hands-on work, and while they are essential, the administrative side is just as crucial.
The Clerk B is often the silent orchestrator who makes sure everything is organized, that appointments are scheduled efficiently, and that all records are accurate and up to date. They are the ones ensuring that the right information gets to the right people at the right time.
Another thing the public might not realize is the level of empathy and care that goes into the job. We often deal with patients who are anxious or upset about their health. We’re the first person someone might see when they walk into the facility, and our demeanor can set the tone for their entire visit. It’s not just about processing paperwork; it’s about helping people feel heard and supported in what can often be a stressful, confusing time.
There’s also a lot of behind-the-scenes juggling involved—managing multiple tasks at once, from answering calls to organizing records to communicating with different departments, all while ensuring nothing falls through the cracks. It can be mentally and physically demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.
So, while the work might seem simple from the outside, it’s a lot more complex and essential than many might realize. The Clerk B plays a critical role in the patient’s experience and in the overall functioning of the healthcare system

What is your name, where do you work and what do you do?

Chantelle MacKinnon, Continuing Care, Case Management Administrator in Sydney and Glace Bay. My job allows me to be a dedicated Admin. to the Care Coordinators.

How long have you been in the job and what drew you to this work in the first place?

I have been working in Continuing Care since February 2024 when I started as a Management Admin. The Case Management position is a new position that was rolled out recently, and I jumped at the opportunity to be in a more hands-on position. What initially drew me to Continuing Care was all the positive feedback I received from a previous co-worker who worked in the department. She suggested I apply, and the rest is history.

Do you like your job? What do you like best about it?

For the first time in my career, I can say I love my job. I’ve had many enjoyable jobs over the years, but none have been as fulfilling and rewarding as this position. Some of the things I really enjoy are a better life balance, a positive work environment, and the personal fulfillment I feel every day.

Do you have a best day? Worst day?

Any day where I interact with a member of the public and help them is a great day for me. I take pleasure in feeling like I’ve made a difference, no matter how small.

What do you think the public should know about the work you do that they might not already be aware of?

I do a lot of different tasks to assist the team on a daily basis. From troubleshooting technology, scanning and uploading documentation to setting up appointments for assessments. No matter the task, big or small, I love helping the team and I try my best to solve every issue that comes my way.

What is your name, where do you work and what do you do?

My name is Samantha Hallett and I work at the IWK. I am a fulltime Staffing Clerk, and work casually as an Admitting Clerk.

How long have you been in the job and what drew you to this work in the first place?

I have been with IWK Health Centre for nine years. I did my first eight years in various departments and recently this year have joined the Centralized Staffing team!

Do you like your job? What do you like best about it?

I like my job very much, my team members are always supportive and willing to help when questions arise

Do you have a best day? Worst day?

My best days are when things run smoothly! I try to make them all as good as possible!

What do you think the public should know about the work you do that they might not already be aware of?

There is a lot of action behind the scenes to keep hospitals flowing with staff.

What is your name, where do you work and what do you do?

Angela DeNuke, I work as a Facility Resource Assistant in Patient Access and Flow at the Valley Regional Hospital in Kentville. We are the Clerical/Administrative support for the department.

How long have you been in the job and what drew you to this work in the first place?

I have been in this job since 2009.  At that time, the Facility Resource Assistant job was a new role within the Health Authority, and the challenge of being part of creating it interested me.  I was looking for a rewarding change and this role has certainly proved to be it.

Do you like your job? What do you like best about it?

The role of a Facility Resource Assistant, like so many is both challenging and rewarding.  With a clerical lens, we liaise with a variety of interdisciplinary members within the health care spectrum and strong communication skills, the ability to multitask along with critical thinking is essential.  We are an integral part of a team that facilitates the movement of patients into the hospital, within the hospital and through discharge.

Do you have a best day? Worst day?

Each day in Patient Flow is unique and often challenging from a bed perspective.  It is always a good day when patients are discharged, that enables us to offer beds to the remaining patient population.  It is certainly less rewarding when we have days of minimal patient discharges/bed flow.

What do you think the public should know about the work you do that they might not already be aware of?

The Facility Resource Assistant job is well established at VRH, however it is an emerging one at many sites within NSH and I look forward to seeing it grow and develop.  Patient Flow is often thought of as an obscure department, however with the spotlight on hospital overcrowding and Emergency Department wait times, it is now being seen and recognized for the valuable work being done behind the scenes to help reduce those wait times.  Each member of any team is valuable, and I absolutely enjoy my role as a Facility Resource Assistant within the Patient Access and Flow Department.