At the Akron location of McGregor PACE, Jennifer Alajmi-Smith wears many hats. Her official titles include medical secretary, clinical secretary and receptionist. But to the participants and colleagues who know her best, her real title is much simpler: friend to all.
Jennifer is often one of the first people in the building each morning. She makes sure the coffee is ready, amenities are in place, lab results are organized, morning reports are prepared for the clinical team and participant orders and appointments are scheduled. She answers phones, handles prescription requests and documents concerns, so they can be brought to the appropriate team member.
And that is just the beginning.
“We have a wonderful team here, so someone is always going to step up, triage and handle the situation” says Alajmi-Smith.
That dedication is especially meaningful when participants arrive at McGregor PACE after going several years without seeing a primary care provider. Jennifer has seen firsthand how the entire team comes together, using their different skills to help participants receive the care and support they need.
“And listening is so important,” says Alajmi-Smith.
“I get a great deal of satisfaction helping people who may not know where to turn,” Alajmi-Smith says. “We do everything we can for our participants. We are dedicated to them.”
Jennifer’s organizational skills and ability to multitask make her a true dynamo, but it is her kindness that leaves the biggest impression. She also serves as a chaplain and regularly visits participants when they are hospitalized, offering comfort and friendship when they need it most.
Her philosophy is simple: be kind and help others. As Jennifer says, “Kindness doesn’t cost you anything.”
When she is not caring for PACE participants, Jennifer stays busy as a cheerleading coach and volunteer with the Akron Food Bank.
At McGregor PACE, Jennifer reminds us that caring for older adults is about more than appointments, paperwork and schedules. It is about showing up, listening, helping and being a friend.
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