Position Spotlight: Recovery Care Coordinator

Chris began his career in the medical field as a registered nurse serving patients in the Cardiac Care Step-Down Unit where he provided care to individuals transitioning out of the ICU who require additional care and attention. He then worked as a Critical Care Registered Nurse providing care to patients in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit before landing his role as a Recovery Care Coordinator (RCC) with Contessa at Prisma Health Home Recovery Care. 

Chris enjoys spending time with his family and friends and is passionate about staying active, fit and healthy. 

What does an RCC do at Contessa? In addition to assessing eligible patients at the bedside in the hospital, I also coordinate nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician rounding, medication delivery, and assist patients with follow-up appointments and referrals after they leave the program. 

Why did you choose a career in healthcare? Believe it or not, for years I fought my family who insisted healthcare would be the perfect fit for me. It wasn’t until I finally decided to apply to nursing school and pursue my career in healthcare that I’d realized it was my calling. Now I can truly say I have found where I belong. 

How does the work you do at Contessa differ from other jobs? My job with Contessa combines so many things I’ve enjoyed from my previous jobs. I’m still able to provide patient care, interact with patients and hospital staff, but I am also now in a position that allows me to assist patients in making long term changes in their life, and truly improve their health to decrease their risk of rehospitalization.  

What is the best part of your job? That’s hard, I truly enjoy so many things in my career. I love hearing patients talk about how happy they are to be home early and receive their hospital care at home. I love telling people about the program. It is so unique and beneficial to patients. I like bragging about what Contessa does. I also love my team here in the Upstate and Richland! 

What’s the most challenging part of your job? The most challenging part would have to be coordinating the schedules of our nurses, EMS, and multiple vendors.  

 What inspires you to come to work every day? My team is definitely my inspiration to show up every day. Being a supportive team member is what keeps me going.