Opinion: the excellence of james a. Haley veterans’ hospital laboratory | va tampa health care | veterans affairs

In an era where the quality of Veteran care often comes under scrutiny, the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital Laboratory stands out as a beacon of excellence. My recent experience with their

blood drawing services reaffirmed that when it comes to supporting those who have served our country, this facility excels in both professionalism and compassion. My experience started when

I arrived at 9:10 am, where I was greeted by a professional and polite medical support assistant. “Can I have your last name and last four of our social security number,” said Calvin

Calderon. “Thank you, sir. Please have a seat, and I will call your name when it is time for you to be seen.”  After a brief wait, he called my name, and I entered the lab. From that moment,

it was clear that the team was committed to providing exceptional care. Their expertise in the blood drawing process was evident in the smooth and nearly painless procedure. But what truly

set this experience apart was the genuine empathy displayed by the staff. They took the time to address my concerns, explain the process in detail and ensure that I felt comfortable

throughout the visit. On this day, I was taken care of by two phlebotomists. The first was an old pro, Mary Brillo, a medical technician/phlebotomist and Hannah Santiago, a clinical research

associate who drew my blood.  “I need to complete 25 procedures to meet the requirements to be a phlebotomist,” said Santiago. “I am currently working on a clinical trial, that will provide

early detection test, where two vials of blood are used to detect cancer. I will return to my research after my 25 sticks.”  This level of care is more than a mere service; it reflects the

broader ethos of the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital. By prioritizing both technical proficiency and compassionate interaction, the laboratory embodies a standard of care that should be

emulated across the healthcare system. “She's done a great job, with no complaints from the Veterans,” said Brillo, referring to Santiago. “I’m training Hannah to ensure she only has

one stick, and she is doing it!” In supporting Veterans, it is crucial to recognize and commend the institutions that go above and beyond. The JAHVH Laboratory exemplifies what it means to

serve those who have served us. Their dedication not only enhances the quality of care but also fortifies the trust and respect that Veterans have for the institutions designed to support

them.