July 6th, 2023
Annette Tietz, Mission Champion of the Month July 2023
Annette Tietz, MHA, joined St. Joseph Hospital 5 years ago as the Director of Ambulatory Services. Annette is passionate about patient care, making sure the staff that she supports have the tools and knowledge they need to get the job done. She truly enjoys partnering with the staff as she helps set them up for success, which she knows will translate to better care for our patients.
As Annette reflects on her time at St. Joseph Hospital, she has a few moments that have had a big impact on her career. The first moment that came to mind was working through COVID-19 in a healthcare setting. She specifically remembered the importance of navigating all the changes in healthcare and made sure her staff was supported as they adapted to constant change. As a leader, Annette knows that every day is different. Her flexibility allows her to provide quality care to our patients, which is what they expect from St. Joseph Hospital.
Annette’s second most impactful moment at St. Joseph Hospital was when she was approved to volunteer with her three dogs, Monroe, Calypso, and Wilson, as a part of our Pet Therapy Team. Annette and her three dogs are also certified through Pet Partners Therapy Dogs. She utilizes her team of therapy dogs to help provide comfort and healing care to patients, as well as staff every week. Annette says, “The best memories are created within the relationships we build with our co-workers. I am incredibly lucky to work with all of my colleagues within our Specialty Clinics, IMG Administration, Marketing, and other areas like Medical Staff, Laboratory Services, and Facilities. I could really just list every department.”
Annette’s favorite part about her role at St. Joseph Hospital is being able to identify the passions and strengths of her people and setting them up for success. She loves that her staff is knowledgeable and enthusiastic about work. Annette also enjoys how much fun each of her teams have together, with positive spirit and passion that they bring to work on a daily basis. Their commitment and dedication helps our patients tremendously.
Shannon March, Marketing Specialist, says, “Annette has demonstrated a deep understanding of the importance of building strong relationships with her colleagues. As the director of multiple specialty service clinics, Annette has made it a priority to personally get to know each member of her team, offering guidance and support whenever needed. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed, as she has developed a reputation as a valued mentor and collaborator among her peers. Most importantly, Annette has an innate ability to brighten the day of those around her. It is not uncommon for her to bring in sweet treats, take the time of her busy schedule to check in on her colleagues, or of course, burst into song. Her kindness and thoughtfulness are a constant reminder of the importance of community and connection in the healthcare field.”
When Annette is not working at St. Joseph Hospital, you can find her spending time gardening, reading, and enjoying time with her brother, sister-in-law, and her two nieces who live in the area. She also spends time with her three golden retrievers. All three dogs spread joy to everyone they meet. In addition to being therapy dogs, each of her dogs participates in dock diving, scent work, and agility. Annette truly enjoys her time with all of these activities, which continue to keep her very active. When not competing, Annette and her dogs can be found hiking their favorite trail, Tucker Brook.
Congratulations, Annette!
