Pictured: Kaitlyn Barrett

Meet Kaitlyn!

When we think about healthcare careers, our minds tend to conjure nurses, doctors and other bedside helpers. But in today’s world, technology is behind all of the care. And System Support Tech and Telecom Specialist Kaitlyn Barrett is here every day, ensuring the technology is working well so that patients can receive the best care possible.

“I love the field of IT,” Kaitlyn said. “It’s constantly evolving, never dull, and presents new challenges every day. This dynamic environment keeps me engaged and motivated to contribute to healthcare in meaningful ways.”

Take phone communications, for example. Kaitlyn is MRH’s phone specialist, and one of her main duties is to troubleshoot and resolve all phone-related issues

In nominating Kaitlyn for this month’s Unsung Hero recognition, a coworker described a phone technology glitch that was causing MRH callers a lot of frustration.  “Kaitlyn is a problem-solver and doesn’t quit until she has a solution to a problem,” the coworker said. “Recently, Kaitlyn dug into why cell phone calls were being dropped upon transfer. Kaitlyn worked with the patients and cell phone companies to troubleshoot and diagnose the issue and finally found the issue.”

“When I first entered this role, I wasn’t specifically seeking a career in healthcare,” Kaitlyn said. “However, over time, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for how IT and cybersecurity are transforming the healthcare landscape. The more I’ve learned, the more I’ve realized just how crucial technology is to the incredible advancements in healthcare today. It’s amazing to see how the evolving world of IT enables healthcare professionals to do things that would have been unimaginable just a few years ago, ultimately improving patient care and outcomes.”

In addition to troubleshooting phone problems, Kaitlyn enjoys working on computers and printers, managing email-related issues, and collaborating with the clinical informatics team. “We have an incredible group of dedicated individuals who genuinely care about their work,” Kaitlyn said.  “This level of commitment and camaraderie is rare in many jobs. My teammates are truly remarkable!”

Kaitlyn has lived in Craig and Hayden since she was 8 years old. Today you’ll find her spending her free time with her husband and son, enjoying outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, hiking and archery hunting. “Being in nature and sharing these experiences with our son is incredibly fulfilling,” she said.

Something not everyone knows about Kaitlyn is that she founded the Kenny Corriveau Trade School Scholarship in memory of her brother. The scholarship provides financial support for students pursuing trade education. “I’m truly passionate about this initiative because many students don’t wish to attend a four-year college and deserve access to opportunities that align with their goals,” she said. “Additionally, the scholarship emphasizes safe driving, incorporating questions to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving and texting while driving. It’s essential to address these issues while helping young people pursue their dreams.”

Thank you, Kaitlyn, for your commitment to excellence and for always caring foremost for the people behind the technology.