Peak Performer: Cassie Troth

I’ve worked closely with Cassie in the Cardiology clinic since I started here at Cook Children's almost two years ago. From the very beginning, she’s been an amazing member of the care team. I don’t think I’ve ever worked with such a competent, driven, well-organized and capable nurse. Cassie has been exceptional with our families, making them feel comfortable and at ease during both clinic visits and phone calls. Recently she spent more than 20 minutes on the phone with a concerned mother, patiently asking and answering questions with the help of an interpreter in order to obtain and provide pertinent information. 

Cassie has taken the initiative to suggest and implement changes to my clinic template as my patient panel has evolved, helping our team schedule both new and established patients in a timely manner during periods of high volume and limited availability. She’s been able to get prior authorizations and other roadblocks almost magically resolved when I and others have not been able to make progress. For example, I know that she spent her own time, off the clock, on prior authorization for a patient on at least one occasion when Cassie found out that the patient’s family was going out of town and she wanted to be sure he had his medication before they left.

Cassie triages things like a pro and has impeccable clinical judgment; she frequently suggests creative approaches or solutions to problems that I haven’t even thought of and is incredibly eager to learn in return. Taking it upon herself, Cassie has developed educational materials and concise summaries of various procedures and changes so that other staff members have the opportunity to better understand. She does all of this with a sense of humor that makes even tough situations hilarious and enjoyable. This year Cassie found a new role with the Heart Center and decided to wholeheartedly tackle it during the next chapter of her career. Although she will be missed, I know that any patient or family who crosses her path will receive excellent care and attention regardless of the setting or situation.