The Impact of COVID-19 on a Nursing Career
The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on many healthcare professionals, including Amanda Miller, the clinical manager of Conduit’s transfer center service. As a critical care nurse and later a clinical manager of a critical care unit, she witnessed the devastating effects of the virus and the immense pressure it placed on the healthcare system. The experience left her seeking a career change.
Discovering Conduit Health Partners
After the last COVID unit at her hospital closed, an opportunity arose at Conduit Health Partners. The position in the transfer center offered a chance for her to continue utilizing her nursing skills in a new and meaningful way. Conduit Health Partners stood out because it provides a space for nurses who, for various reasons, are no longer working in a clinical setting. “I love that Conduit enables nurses who may not be working at the bedside anymore to still use their skill to make a significant impact on patient care”, Amanda commented.
Transitioning from Bedside to Transfer Center
Her background in critical care nursing, where she spent six years becoming familiar with the process of transferring high-acuity patients, equipped her with the skills needed for her new role. As a Clinical Manager during the height of the pandemic, she led her team through unprecedented challenges, learning how to manage daily operations while prioritizing patient care. These experiences have been invaluable in her current role at Conduit Health Partners, where she oversees the daily operations of the transfer center, ensuring the quality and safety of patients.
The Rewards of a New Role
One of the most rewarding aspects of her role at Conduit Health Partners is collaborating with clients to develop policies and procedures for transferring critically ill patients.
“My mother had a medical emergency and was brought by EMS to the closest hospital, and she had to be transferred to a different facility for higher level of care. Having experienced the patient side of a transfer has showed me the importance of the work my team performs,” shared Amanda.
A particularly fulfilling project was her collaboration with Mercy Health Springfield to improve the transfer process for behavioral health patients. By reducing the number of phone calls between teams, they achieved a 64% decrease in ED length of stay for these patients, enhancing overall safety for both patients and ER staff.
Life Outside of Work
When not working, she enjoys hiking, kayaking, and attending concerts. She cherishes spending time with her family, including her husband Koby and their six children: Thurston (23), Keigan (21), Peyton (18), Nora (13), Maxxan (8), and Kash (6).
A Source of Motivation
The opportunity to learn new things and take on new challenges keeps her motivated. Every day at Conduit Health Partners presents a new opportunity to make a difference, and she is grateful to be part of such a dedicated team.
“I’m excited to watch our company grow and expand and excited to grow with Conduit.” Reflecting on the future, Amanda shared “I’m excited to watch our company grow and expand and eager to grow alongside it.”
