Author - wphungerford

I was recently prompted by my computer to change my password because a new password is required in five days. . . four days . . . three days etc. In other words, I need to get ahead of things, make the necessary change now instead of waiting until the last minute and risk potential computer lockout.

One of my bosses, known for wise and dramatic statements says, “Healthcare is going to have to adopt the methods of Mr. Henry Ford if it is to survive.” His point is not that healthcare needs to become mechanized and dehumanized. The point is that medicine and human services need to become highly organized and efficient. Where is the doctor? Where is the nurse? Where is the patient? Is the room clean? Is the equipment available? Are the necessary tools and supplies nearby?

Locating technology, Real Time Location Systems (RTLS), has the power to change the efficiency of the healthcare ecosystem. The good news is, in many cases hospitals have already invested in products that include Real Time Location features. The bad news is, most hospitals have only begun to realize the potential of such powerful tools.

These systems are vastly under-utilized because, often, the owners of the systems are faced with the technical challenges of implementation and integration into the daily routines of patient care and hospital management. The most expensive products purchased by many hospitals today are the ones they do not use! The product has been purchased and people are frozen with fear trying to understand it and use it effectively.

At Convergint we are already involved on the front lines of these complex system integrations. We are integrators of “ugly” systems that will change, for the better, the way things work in healthcare. Consulting on the integration of existing systems and explaining their potential for maximum impact is what we do best.

Give us a call to talk about what you already have installed. Serving people is what we do! Our company byline is, “In the hospital we make it all work together.”I echo the prompt of my computer, “Consider changing . . .now.

Medical Equipment & Healthcare Solutions

Connect with Convergint at (800) 968-3135 to learn more about our commitment to delivering exceptional results to our customers through unparalleled customer service.

As we continue introducing our long-time employees, we would like to present to you someone who has had a major impact on making IMS (now Convergint) what it is today. Julie Hammond joined the team in 1991 as the Office Manager when there were only 10 employees to assist. Fast forward to today, and Julie assists 50 employees in six different states.

While that is a huge responsibility for one person, Julie handles all her work with professionalism and grace. She has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to insurance, company policies, payroll, and so much more. Basically, she handles all the nitty gritty, behind the scenes work at IMS. When I sat down recently with Julie, this is what I learned:

What brought you to IMS?

I was in my late 20’s and looking for a job at a growing company that would also challenge myself to grow. I had prior work experience in the health-related industries (hospitals, health departments, ambulance company, etc.), so I thought it would be a great fit.

What is your current position? How has it evolved or changed since you started?

Since I started working here in 1991, I have been the Office Manager. Not only has the number of employees changed, but major changes have been made in technology over the last 26 years. When I started:

• We used a thermal paper (roll) fax machine.
• We took phone messages and circulated them on “While You Were Out” pink message pads.
• Correspondence was processed through a DOS based word processing system. We used DOT Matrix printers with printer ribbons (no toner).
• I remember when the company purchased its first 5 MG windows based computer, and it came with a wired mouse (cool technology at the time!).
• We used Lotus (spreadsheet) for processing payroll.

What is your fondest IMS memory?

This company is more than just coworkers; we are family. I have enjoyed watching the company change over the years. I have especially loved seeing the children of IMS employees grow from toddlers into adults, now with children of their own.

Why have you stayed working at IMS?

IMS has integrity, provides stability and opportunity, and is a comfortable atmosphere. Because of how long I’ve been here, IMS employees have become more like family. IMS Management has a proven track record for utilizing an individual’s ability and talents. And we empower employees in areas most suited for our customers, vendors, and staff.

What do you think the biggest strength that IMS offers to its customers?

Our biggest strength is our ability to service, support, and respond to our customers in a quick, efficient, and timely manner. We treat our customers with fairness and honesty; we strive to treat our customers the same way we like to be treated.

What would you hope to see in the future for IMS?

I’d love to see us continue to bring products and services to our customers that help hospital staff streamline work processes and allow proven quality in patient care.

What are 3 fun facts about yourself?

1. I have been married to my best friend, Mike, for 24 years. We have twin sons, Chase & Drew, age 20.
2. We have 3 goofy dogs – a 15-year old Brittany Spaniel who thinks she’s still a puppy, and 2 Shetland Sheepdogs who think their job is to patrol the neighborhood.
3. I have an immense passion for the outdoors ­– any season.

Julie’s behind the scenes work at IMS is immeasurable and makes an impact not only on each employee but on all our customers and vendors, as well.

Medical Equipment & Healthcare Solutions

Connect with Convergint at (800) 968-3135 to learn more about our commitment to delivering exceptional results to our customers through unparalleled customer service.