Paige Outinen, Human Resource Assistant for UP Health System – Portage.

What is your title and role at UPHS – Portage? 

I am the Human Resources Assistant at UP Health System – Portage.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare? 

My inspiration for getting into healthcare was being able to help and care for people. Even though I am no longer working with patients anymore, I still get to help the employees that work for the hospital and that is still very rewarding to me.

What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field? 

Every day is so different in this position which is what I like most about it and the days fly by. Every day I mainly work helping my co-workers as much as I can to get things done whether it’s running reports, helping with new hire orientation, scheduling for the flu and COVID clinics, or processing mail and filing. No day is the same and there are always new tasks to complete.

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?

I have been at UP Health System – Portage for almost 4 years and started out as a clinic assistant in the Internal Medicine suite. I then worked in Registration and finally landed in Human Resources.

What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position? 

One difference I have experienced in this position is that my past positions focused on patient care and this position focuses on our most valuable employees.

What are some of your interests outside of work? What/where is your favorite local gem? 

I am married and have two little girls so I love spending time with them. We love to do as much as we can with the kids whether it’s camping, traveling, or just keeping busy! My favorite gem would have to be Copper Harbor, we camped there for the first time this summer and we will definitely be spending more time in the summers camping. 

What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Portage? 

What I enjoy most about working here at Portage would be the people I work with. We have the best team and it is a great place to work.  Everyone is always smiling and willing to help each other out.