We sat down for a Q&A session with Avery Hostig, BSN, RN, to learn about her role as a Member Experience Manager, how she brings light to difficult healthcare moments for our members, and to get some advice on tricky yoga poses.
Q: Tell me about what you did before Summus?
I was a bedside nurse, I worked in a cardiovascular intensive care unit as well as a trauma care unit. There I gained experience with a wide range of patients. My mom is also a nurse and my dad is a doctor, so I grew up with a strong interest and desire to be in healthcare.
Q: What interested you about Summus?
Bedside nursing is a really tough job. The work is intense. I was working on a Masters in Nursing Finance Administration, and I wanted to transfer clinical skills to a different environment. Summus really felt like the right fit.
Q: Tell me about what you do at Summus?
As a Member Experience Manager, I take requests that come in and guide members through the Summus process, which includes setting up a conversation with a Summus MD and, if needed, escalate to Expert Consultation. I make sure everything is ready for their consultation, including medical records and questions. For our employer clients, it’s very much relationship-driven and we get to know the members very well.
Q: What do you love most about your job?
I love my team. I love Kara, my mentor. This is my first experience outside a hospital and I’m grateful for all that I’ve learned and to be part of a team that is so supportive.
For our members, I love that we are able to provide clarity and reassurance in a part of their lives that is very stressful and anxiety-driven. It’s like they are in the dark, and we open a door that gives them the light to see their next step forward.
Q: What do you do when you’re not at work?
I practice yoga, I like to learn new poses. Right now I’m working on holding my handstands. I also enjoy hanging out with our dogs. My family has five golden retrievers. I like going out to dinner with my fiance—my favorite food is Italian and I love Neapolitan pizza.
Learn more about our Summus Partners and how they provide reassurance and direction in the moments that matter most to our members.
