We Are IH: Patient ambassador brings celebration and joy to work

April 18, 2024

Coreen enjoying a meal while travelling in Italy

Name: Coreen Duncan (she/her/hers)
Job Title: Patient Ambassador
Years of Service: 34
Worksite: Columbia House
Community: Invermere
Ancestral Territory: Ktunaxa and Secwépemc
Favourite Quote / Advice to live by: It is important to be kind.

Born and raised in Saskatoon, Coreen spent her high school years gaining experience volunteering at care homes and Meals on Wheels. Her volunteer experience and working as a housekeeper led her to Invermere with her current role as a patient ambassador in long-term care (LTC) at Columbia House.

“I remember thinking that I loved being with the elderly residents and clients. I felt that I could help make their days brighter. Thirty-four years later I still feel the same!”

In this Story…

Learn more about Coreen’s journey with IH

Explore Patient Ambassador Careers@IH

Learn more about Coreen’s journey with IH

A patient ambassador is an important part of the team in health care, including long-term care. A patient ambassador's primary role is to greet and engage with all individuals entering the building such as visitors, employees, and contractors, and to ensure their attendance at the site. Patient ambassadors cultivate a safe environment for patients and their loved ones, which is fundamental to providing high-quality health care to the people in the B.C. Interior.

A woman pushing a cleaning cart in a hospital, dressed as a scarecrow for Halloween — Coreen celebrating Halloween during her time in housekeeping.

Coreen embodies her role as a hardworking, kind, cheerful and reliable person. She naturally spreads joy to those around her and brings warmth to Columbia House. Pairing her skills with over 30 years of experience, it is no surprise she is such a perfect fit for this important role. She has found ways to make a real difference in the ambassador role. She takes pride in being ready to greet visitors while making sure they don't have to wait to enter the site.

There have been many proud moments over the years, but right now I feel proud of the job I do making people’s days a little brighter. We are a great team here!”

-- Coreen Duncan

She knows it’s important to bring celebration and excitement into her work, and she shows that by decorating the public areas and entrances in a positive way throughout the seasons. As a helpful person, she makes sure residents have what they need – even if that need is chocolate!

A woman dressed as an elf standing next to a blue Christmas sign that reads: “together we can do great things.” — Coreen decorating the common areas for Christmas, bringing cheer to all!

Outside of work, you will catch Coreen expressing herself through her love of crafting. When she isn’t designing do-it-yourself projects, she takes the opportunity to run, read or travel.