RVNA’s Maria Chann keeps many balls in the air at work. As a “paraprofessional coordinator,” she handles everything from scheduling, to payroll, and more. Even though she’s not in a clinical role herself, Maria’s favorite aspect of the job is connecting with patients. Like many of her colleagues, Maria enjoys helping others. Her smile and can-do attitude are a part of everything she does.
Where did you grow up and where do you reside now?
I lived in Puerto Rico until I was 6 years old when my family moved to Danbury. I still live there now.
What is your role at RVNA?
I’m a paraprofessional coordinator in charge of the CNAs (certified nursing assistants). I handle their scheduling and payroll, and take part in interviewing CNA candidates. I also do the home health scheduling for nurses, physical therapists and occupational therapists.
How long have you been at RVNA?
5 years
What brought you to RVNAhealth at first?
I used to work at a health center in Danbury where I was in charge of 30 medical assistants and 10 schedulers. A doctor I knew there who was from Ridgefield told me about RVNA. I never would have thought to apply, but he said he knew I could do the job.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of the job is speaking with the patients. They all have something to say. Some of them don’t have many people to talk to, so I learn a lot about their lives. I like that. In addition, I love working with the staff here. Everyone is really nice and we all work together well.
Have you ever considered another profession?
At one point I considered being a nurse, but I think coordination is really my thing. Every day is something different. I love what I do.
What do you love to do when you’re not working?
Spend time with my two sons. I have an 18-year-old who is going to West Conn in the fall, and a 12-year-old.
What is your hidden talent?
I don’t think I have one. (Editor’s note: Maybe juggling?)
What would you do if you won the lottery?
I think about that a lot…. I would buy my mom and myself a house so we could create a family community. (Maria still has a large extended family in Puerto Rico.)
Do you have a favorite RVNAhealth moment or story?
Once an aide went to see a patient in Ridgefield. When she got there, she realized that the patient had no food in the house. She’d been eating ice cream and that was it. The aide came back to RVNAhealth and got some food from our food pantry so she could prepare something for her patient to eat. The patient’s family wasn’t even aware, so we called them. Hearing them say how thankful they were was awesome. Communication is one of the most important things we do here.
