Pamela Porter has been with UofL Health for close to 20 years. She began her journey with UofL Health in June 2004 at UofL Health – Medical Center East as an anesthesia technician. In this role, Pamela assisted certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) in operations, handling breathing supplies and anything airway related. Her role expanded as she learned to utilize video equipment in the operating room.
For the last nine years, though, she has been with UofL Health – Mary & Elizabeth Hospital serving as a liaison in the waiting room for outpatient surgery, radiology and laboratory services. In this role, Pamela advocates for the patient’s family member or loved one who is in surgery or is receiving diagnostic care. She checks on those in the waiting room and makes sure they know where to grab a snack or drink, or that they are having a pleasant experience at the hospital.
“When someone is in surgery and a loved one wants to be there for them, I’m the first person they see,” Pamela said. “I have to try to put them in a comfortable mindset by telling them the patient will be OK, that they are going to be well taken care of and that I’m here to take care of them. People don’t come to the hospital, or have emergency surgery willingly most times, and being the loved one to support them through it can be hard. It’s truly about caring for the patient and their support system.”
Pamela loves working for UofL Health. She is excited about the shifting culture and focus on compassion and patient-centered care. However, her favorite thing about UofL Health is the patients she’s been able to care for and the opportunities she’s been given to grow as a person and as a professional. She named the fully-funded tuition program through University of Louisville and other tuition benefits as helpful tools that have helped her team members and their families grow.
“At Mary & Elizabeth Hospital, I see so many smiling faces and so many people willing to pitch in where needed,” Pamela explained. “My team has also shown me that they not only care about me but that they care about my family, too.”
Pamela lives out the UofL Health mission by showing every person with whom she comes in contact love, respect and honesty. It is her goal to give 100% of herself while keeping a positive attitude.
Born and raised in Louisville, Pamela attended Western High School and loves to watch University of Louisville sports. She is also a fan of the Golden State Warriors and Pittsburg Steelers.
Are you looking for a good catfish recipe? Pamela has one to share with you! She loves to cook and one of her best dishes is catfish with coleslaw and mac and cheese.
