For several weeks, colleagues from the Olson Center for Women’s Health worked from the third floor of the Munroe-Meyer Institute after a water leak damaged clinic space in the Durham Outpatient Center.
The arrangement stemmed from the existing partnership between the Olson Center and MMI’s Genetic Counseling Department.
“It really was not a question of if we would do this, it was how,” said Amy Nordness, PhD, associate dean and director of MMI. “They’re our partners. It’s the right thing to do and we needed to find a way to do it the best we could.”
The Olson Center team had been piecing together available rooms across campus, but quickly realized that was not sustainable for patients, many of whom are seen multiple times a day and several times a week, said Courtney Marshall, clinic manager.
MMI was able to provide 18 patient rooms, allowing for most Olson Center patients to be seen there. MMI also provided workstations.
Making the set up work took a group effort — exam beds were moved from the hospital, IT set up computers, MMI staff relocated to clear space.
“Everybody pitched in to make this happen,” Dr. Nordness said. “Everyone said yes and was willing to do whatever they could.”
During a disruptive and stressful time, MMI provided a workspace as well as a sense of belonging, Marshall said.
“We have witnessed firsthand the impact that generosity, collaboration and compassion can have on a team,” she said. “Having experienced that kindness ourselves, we hope to carry those lessons forward and extend the same spirit of welcome and support to others.”