Healthcare Heroes | Nikki Smith

What is your official title?
I work in the Orthopedics and Sports Medicine department and my official title is Clinic Patient Procedure Scheduler. I schedule all of the surgiers with the OR and work with all of our Orthopedic surgery patients to schedule pre-op and post-op appointments.

How long have you been at Watertown Regional Medical Center? Have you always been in the same position?
I started working in Dr. O'Halloran's office in 1996 and have been working in surgery scheduling for the last 10 years. In between, I held many roles including radiology tech, front desk, and clinical duties.

What do you enjoy most about working at Watertown Regional Medical Center?
The most enjoyable part of my job are the patients and co-workers ai get to see and work witih on a daily basis. I've gotten to know some amazing people during my time here.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?
My dad! He was the CEO of a rural hospital in Wisconsin for 30 years. I loved watching him care for the employees and patients and knew I wanted to be in this field too. I'm grateful for the opportunity I've had to serve the people of Watertown.

What would you say to somebody wanting to get into your profession?
Caring for people is a wonderful opportunity. It's not always easy but it's always rewarding. You also have to be flexible because the healthcare industry is always changing and you have to be able to change along with it.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?
I like to spend time outside with my family and three dogs. Some of the outdoor activities I enjoy doing are walking, biking, and kayaking. I love traveling around Wisconsin and exploring new things.

What is your favorite place in the Watertown area?
I enjoy visiting all of the "small" local stores in-town, including Brown's shoes, The Chic Boutique, Ava's Boutique and I work part-time at Kraemer's.

Why do you believe patients can count on Watertown Regional Medical Center for quality care?
I know patients can count on WRMC for quality care because I've put my trust in our providers for my own families care for many years. We are very lucky to have such an excellent health care option right in our own backyard.

What is one thing you’re doing to help prevent the spread of COVID-19?
We have kept family gatherings limited by doing virtual get togethers with extended family.