UP Health System – Bell Heroes | Tania Harsila, RN, BSN

What is your role at UPHS – Bell?

I am the director of the Acute Care Unit (ACU). 

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?

I went into healthcare to help make a difference in people’s lives.

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

My day is a mix of collaborating and coordinating with other team members to maximize patient safety and satisfaction as well as ensuring that employees have the resources needed to perform their jobs to the best of their ability.

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

I started at Bell way back in 2000. I have been a nurse on the Acute Care Unit for most of my time here. I became the unit director this past July.

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

Being the unit director is a lot different than being a floor nurse. I have learned a lot about the behind-the-scenes decisions that need to be made on a day-to-day basis.  Being a nurse, I have seen many changes at Bell through the years; the building and move to our current hospital, changing employees, hospital nurses unionizing and of course the changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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

Outside of work I enjoy traveling, music concerts, shopping and spending time with family and friends at camp. My favorite local gem is the Dead River Basin.

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

I love that I can take the time to sit and talk with patients, families and staff and offer a listening ear or a helping hand.