As we continue to strive for excellent care here at Erlanger Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Center, we have hired two new surgical coordinators. Please join us in welcoming Serena McSears and Amy Jo Watkins!
Serena McSears
What do you enjoy most about being a surgical coordinator?
I enjoy being able to help our clients get to surgery. The greatest part is when you let clients know their checklist is completed and that we will be submitting to insurance, hearing their excitement on the phone about moving to the next step puts a smile on my face.
What activities do you enjoy in your free time?
I enjoy baking, and love getting my grandkids involved—they range from 5 months to 13 years old.
Is there anything you would like our clients to know?
I care about our clients and I am working my hardest to get them to surgery. There are many steps that need to be done on our end to get our clients prepped for surgery and I want them to know that I am giving them my all.
Amy Jo Watkins 
What do you enjoy most about being a surgical coordinator?
I enjoy the interaction with patients and helping them with their journey. I also enjoy being able to see them when they first come in and then see them through their journey to post-op.
What activities do you enjoy in your free time?
My husband and I enjoy hiking. We moved from Nashville in August and we have been exploring Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain. I also enjoying baking and trying out new recipes. You might also catch me reading in my free time.
Is there anything you would like our clients to know?
I think it’s important that they understand the process. I don’t think they are fully aware of the different steps that also occur once their checklist is complete. First the surgeon has to review the chart; then we have to submit their case to insurance. Once that is completed we have to find a surgery date. After these steps have been completed the surgery scheduler will contact you to let you know your surgery date. I think it is also important that they know this is a lifelong change for them, and it’s more than just the work that needs to be completed to get the surgery, it is also a lot of work after.
