We value our staff members at Piedmont Eye Center, and we want our patients to get to know them better! Each month, we introduce you to one of the people who keep our office going. Next in our “Meet the Staff” series is Shawn! Shawn has worked in multiple roles in her time here, but currently acts as our Director of Clinical Training.
What is your role at Piedmont Eye Center?
When I first came to Piedmont Eye Center, over 18 years ago, I was trained as a scribe for Dr. Ganser. Shortly thereafter, I moved into a technician position with the founder of our eye center, Dr. Lotano. I spent about 6 years working side-by-side with Dr. Lotano as his head tech, scribe or “whatever my name was”. Dr. Lotano, to this day, still cannot remember my name! Those were the good ol’ days!
After Dr. Lotano retired I moved onto Dr. Ceballos’ team as her head tech, as well as working with a training team to train new clinical staff. About a year later a new position was created. My official title then became the Director of Clinical Training, which I still hold today. With that title I went on to develop the Ophthalmic Technician Training Program for Piedmont Eye Center.
My responsibilities are to train the clinical staff in many aspects of this evolving field such as the examination skills, data entry and the operation of a multitude of Ophthalmic equipment, just to name a few. I fill in as a tech for all clinics whenever needed and also proudly assist on the LASIK team on surgery days. Some of my other responsibilities include: managing the continuing education for each clinical employee, computer and EHR software maintenance and training, as well as perform and maintain all government reporting for Piedmont Eye Center.
Since my primary job is rearing the newest of our clinical staff, I am told by many that I am the mentor and “mama bear” of the practice, which I love.
How long have you worked at Piedmont?
Since February 14, 2000
What do you love most about your job?
The smiles and reactions from patients when they can see, training and mentoring the staff as well as being a little nerdy with the computers.
What is one thing you wish every patient knew?
I wished I had more time to listen to every patient’s story and that there is so much more to medicine than what it used to be.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Spending time with my family, traveling and missions work.
If you were stranded on a desert island and could only bring one thing, what would it be?
A big boat.
If money was not a concern what would you do every day if you didn’t work?
Work in the mission field, volunteer for disaster relief, and travel around the country and abroad.
If you could have dinner with any one person, living or dead, who would it be?
My grandfather, “DeeDee” (And he would call it “supper”!)
Coke or Pepsi?
Pepsi! But I really love Dr. Pepper.
Coffee or tea?
Definitely sweet tea.
Do you have any words of advice to share?
Follow the Ten Commandments. Be kind to one another and always do your best to keep a positive attitude.