Donna Ganley

As a Health Home Care Coordinator with the Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities of Southwest Washington, Donna works in-person with clients to set and monitor health-related goals to improve the self-management of chronic health conditions. Evidence shows that over time, this relationship will lead to positive changes in behavior, which improves both the interactions with health care teams and overall health outcomes for the client.

“I help clients learn how to navigate the health care system to get the best care and decrease costs by reducing emergency care.” Donna said. “Over time, I see a big difference in my clients as they become more self-reliant.”

Donna sees three to five clients a day. She attends medical appointments to help clients learn to advocate for their needs, follows up on hospital visits, and helps with medication issues or concerns. In addition, Donna assists with referrals to community resources, arranges medical transportation, helps facilitate getting medical equipment, and works with family and caregivers to support clients.

“It’s gratifying to help people,” Donna continued. “My job is different every day, and I appreciate that I have room to do my job well. A friend of mine got a job here and she invited me to apply. That was eight years ago and I’m still in love with my job – it’s easy to love a new job, but after eight years, I still love my job! The staff is amazing. We have a real team of professionals committed to doing their very best and they are always there to help in any situation.”

“In addition, I love that I have the flexibility to work from home a couple of days each week,” said Donna. “And my family loves it too.”

Prior to joining the agency, Donna was a medical assistant, X-ray technician and laboratory technician for 10 years at a local medical clinic. She has a bachelor’s degree in human services from the University of Phoenix.