At Whitehorse General Hospital, a crew works behind-the-scenes to ensure that front-line staff have all the items they need. These experts handle logistics. Supply Chain Technicians make sure things are available, well-labelled and clean. Their work allows other work to happen. It's like the first runner passing the baton in a relay race.
Let’s visit Whitehorse General Hospital and meet Damon who works with the Yukon Hospital Corporation.
Would you mind introducing yourself and what you do?
Hi, my name is Damon. I'm the Operating Room Supply Chain Technician for Whitehorse General Hospital. I have worked here for about six years. Basically, my job is to keep the OR stocked. That means putting stuff on the shelves, ordering equipment, keeping things organized in the shipping department and delivering to the OR.
What makes for a good day at work?
Providing items for the patient's care and getting equipment on time; that’s what really motivates me to come into work.
Working with the Physicians and nurses gives me a good sense of pride and satisfaction in my daily duties. I would recommend this job to anybody who's looking into a position in healthcare outside of nursing.
What, would you say to somebody who is considering this line of work?
I think it's a great starting point for any hospital-related career. I think this can turn into a career, like I’ve done with it. You can specialize a little bit more into different areas as I have done with the OR section of the hospital.
What’s unique about working in the Yukon?
Being a smaller hospital in Canada can present some challenges but also gives you the ability to work closer with providers.
One of the biggest challenges with being in the North is the logistics of shipping. But when you know you have done your part in aiding patient care, there is no greater sense of accomplishment.