UPHS — Marquette Heroes | Karri Hamari

Karri Hamari is a Senior Reimbursement Analyst at UP Health System – Marquette.

What is your role at UPHS – Marquette?
I am a member of the Accounting team at UP Health System – Marquette.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?
I can’t say I was looking for a job in healthcare, however, when the opportunity for a job at Marquette General Hospital came around, I was more than happy to work at “the Hospital.” UP Health System was and still is one of the largest employers in the area, and jobs here are highly desirable for many reasons.

What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?
A typical day involves data, numbers, reports, and analyses, whether it is month-end and we are closing the books, preparing quarterly reports for governmental payors, or performing various Sox Control tasks.  There are auditor requests from internal auditors, external auditors, and government payors and corporate is usually in need of something.

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?
I have worked here more than 33 years, all in the Accounting department and related to Reimbursement.

What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?
The biggest change was Duke LifePoint’s acquisition of MGH in the fall of 2012. As a LifePoint Health Hospital, we’ve had to learn how to do some financial reporting and other Accounting tasks differently. Of course, the new facility was a big change as well and certainly a wonderful upgrade.

What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem?
When I am not working, I like to read, do puzzles or watch TV — movies, documentaries, sit-coms, and sports (primarily hockey or baseball). I like to go for walks or bike rides and pick berries, especially wild blueberries. I consider them an excellent local gem.

What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Marquette?
I’ve enjoyed my many years working for the hospital because I like my job and I’ve been lucky to have worked with some very good people. I am proud to work for the hospital that’s dedicated to making communities healthier, with quality technology and professionals in the Upper Peninsula.