Melanie has held a variety of positions throughout her career, including dialysis nurse, CKD educator, vascular access coordinator, and supervisor, bringing a well-rounded perspective to every role she undertakes. She has contributed to the development and relocation of multiple dialysis units, and over time has developed a particular passion for Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI). Her innovations have helped streamline and enhance reporting processes at her organization, and she is proud to have been part of the upcoming revision of RHA’s new QAPI tool.
“Voices and Renal Watch make it easy to stay on top of industry trends, hot topics, and information,” Melanie says of her RHA membership. She admits that when she attended her first RHA Annual Meeting in Boston, she was a bit starstruck surrounded by professionals she had long admired. “It didn’t take long to understand that RHA members are here to support one another and help organizations succeed.”
Melanie credits a former manager with introducing her to RHA (then the National Renal Administrators Association), who encouraged continued membership as an essential resource for the organization. Since then, Melanie’s involvement has grown from participant to committee contributor. She’s now an active member of both the Quality Committee and the Pediatric Committee, with plans to join the Product Development Committee as well.
One pivotal moment came during a webinar led by Becky Berg, demonstrating the QAPI tool. “My jaw dropped,” Melanie recalls. The tool was so impactful that her organization adopted and expanded it, and that interest ultimately led Melanie to contribute to the new RHA QAPI revision. While the update process has taken longer than expected, Melanie remains confident: “The quality product will be worth the wait.”
Her advice to new dialysis leaders is both practical and encouraging: “RHA membership is a must. Take advantage of the education, discussions, and resources available. Even the newest members are valuable assets to the RHA community.”
Beyond her professional life, Melanie enjoys applying her creativity at home, refinishing old furniture, tackling house projects, sewing, working in the yard, and making meals with her husband when family and friends gather. She also finds satisfaction in building tools and resources that make work easier, more efficient, and more reliable for others - a philosophy that’s clearly reflected in both her personal and professional contributions.