Global expertise, local care: Cox Barton County Hospital welcomes international medical laboratory scientists

Medical laboratory scientists play a crucial role in health care. To understand this profession, they are often considered puzzle masters or detectives solving cases.

The duties of these highly trained professionals encompass collecting samples and performing a variety of laboratory tests on specimens so clinicians can accurately diagnose, monitor, and treat patients' medical conditions.  

Staffing key medical positions, such as medical laboratory scientists, is a significant concern for hospitals nationwide. From nurses to scientists, health systems are finding success in recruiting internationally.  

Cox Barton County Hospital recently welcomed two highly skilled new team members who have proven to be a perfect fit for our small hospital and rural community. Jane and LJ have filled crucial positions in the laboratory that have been vacant for over a year. 

If you haven’t met our international team members yet, you need to meet them! Their warm smiles can brighten up any room. Here are their stories.  

Jane 

Jane grew up in Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines, and had a wonderful childhood. She was a middle child in her family of five and thrived on receiving attention.  

Her interest in health care came from her desire to support the growing health care industry in diagnosing and treating illnesses. 

"Since I am not fond of direct bedside care, I chose the medical laboratory scientist field because I find it so interesting," says Jane. “Each day is different, and I really enjoy that.”  

Her journey to CoxHealth started after she received an offer letter from the Human Resources department.  

"I did my research about the organization, and I found the hospital’s mission and vision aligned so well with my strengths," she says. "I have a friend who worked for CoxHealth, and she had a great experience, so I didn’t hesitate to grab this opportunity."  

Jane quickly fell in love with her colleagues and the health care organization.   

“Working at Cox Barton has been amazing for me,” she says. “The warm and friendly environment has made me even more passionate about my work. Everyone is so approachable and kind, always ready to help with any questions that I may have. Overall, it’s been a smooth transition.” 

Outside the hospital, Jane loves the relaxing atmosphere of her small town of 4,292 people.   

"The fresh air is great for my physical and mental health," says Jane. “I enjoy maintaining a healthy lifestyle, so I like to jog or connect with local Filipino friends when I have some free time.”  

Jane admits to not trying a lot of foods in Missouri yet, but so far, her favorite is the delicious cookies baked by the hospital auxiliary and delivered to staff on Wednesday afternoons.  

“They're my absolute favorite,” she says. “The best cookies I have ever tasted.”   

LJ 

LJ, originally from the Philippines, was born and raised in Tagbilaran City, province of Bohol.  

For LJ and her family, the early years growing up in a rural area were challenging. Her dad was a seafarer and was usually away for work. Her mom was the one who raised her and her brother throughout the years. Times were difficult, but her mom made sure they had everything they needed.  

“I’m grateful for both of them because, without their love and support, I wouldn’t be the person I am today,” she says with a smile.   

When LJ was a young girl, she dreamed of becoming a medical doctor. While in high school, a friend told her about a pre-med course called Medical Technology. After taking the course, she decided to pursue becoming a medical laboratory scientist. While interning at a hospital, LJ grew to love the profession, and that’s when she decided this was going to be her career. 

LJ first heard about CoxHealth from a friend, but with a busy life, she continued working until she finally decided to explore career opportunities in the United States late last year. 

"During a casual internet search, I stumbled upon CoxHealth again," LJ explained. "That's when I decided to apply, and I was fortunate enough to be offered this wonderful opportunity."  

Similar to her new friend Jane, LJ is passionate about helping people and believes that CoxHealth embodies her values of what a health system should be.  

"Arriving in the United States and settling in Lamar, everything has been perfect," she said. "The environment is wonderful, and everyone, especially my workmates, has given Jane and me such a warm welcome. Working for CoxHealth, and specifically at Cox Barton County Hospital, will be a journey that I will cherish forever." 

If you're interested in learning more about CoxHealth's international recruitment program, please click here.