UP Health System - Marquette Heroes | Jeff Fierstine, PA-C
October 27, 2023
What is your role at UPHS?
I am a neurosurgery Certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) in the Brain & Spine Center at UP Health System – Marquette.
What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?
My parents. They raised me to serve others and protect the vulnerable. And the best field to apply those principles is healthcare.
What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?
It usually starts at 7 am with reviewing all of the neurosurgical inpatients and rounding in the intensive care unit, followed by the neuro-orthopedic unit. Often, I'm called to the emergency department and operating room. Our outpatient population has such depth—from pediatrics to geriatrics, elective surgery to lifesaving surgery. Probably the greatest of all is caring for patients with a devastating spinal cord injury who learn to walk again. The joy in witnessing that level of recovery is overwhelmingly gratifying.
How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?
I started in dietary in 1996. Then cardiographic services in 1999. Finally as a PA in 2005 to the present.
What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?
I've seen and experienced so much in more than 18 years as a PA. With exposure comes greater responsibility for patients and their care. And that's a very good change.
What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem?
Coaching the game of basketball to my kids, mountain biking and cooking. You never have to twist my arm to go to camp. Pictured Rocks is by far my favorite gem. It's right out the back door of our cabin.
What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Marquette?
I have the best colleagues I could ask for. Also, our administration has made many accommodations for me and allowed me to work in multiple specialties. Because of that, I have learned so much and am forever grateful.