Life Changing Is … a Warm Welcome

Walter S. — Environmental Services Associate

“I think caring should start right here at the door.”

Before coming to UPMC, Walter worked in customer service. And that’s still the core of what he does and who he is as a person.

“I’m a people person,” he says. “I’m great with people.”

Walter joined UPMC’s Environmental Services Department five years ago, where he works to provide a clean and welcoming atmosphere for patients.

After the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, Walter took on another role as a screener at the hospital’s entrance. The job meant more interaction with people as Walter screened them for COVID-19 symptoms and helped them with whatever they needed.

“I just like being here, I like helping people and making their day better,” Walter says. “I’m always saying ‘Good morning, how are you?’ or, ‘It’s a beautiful day,’ and ‘Have a good day,’ and ‘Can I help you with directions?’ Anything I can possibly do to help somebody.”

Because screeners work at the entrance of the hospital, Walter helps to set the tone for someone’s visit. For him, that means a cheerful greeting for anyone walking in the door and a friendly goodbye as people left.

“I think caring should start right here at the door before it gets upstairs to the unit,” he says. “Here’s where it all happens, right here at the entrance.”

The smallest interactions can make a big difference, whether it’s someone looking for the right department or a friendly smile to someone having a bad day.

“I just try to help people as much as possible,” he says.

“It’s not even a job to me,” he says. “I love what I'm doing. I look forward to coming here.”

At UPMC, Life Changing Medicine means having passion for what we do.

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