Anna Sheehan - Lions Eye Institute

Anna Sheehan, 62, has been concierge on receptionfor the last few years at Lions Eye Institute in Perth, where she started working as a clerical assistant in March 2013.

What's the best part about your job?

So many people need directions when they enter the building, and I have the joy of catching up with regular faces.

There's always a good coffee down here at Coffee Biz which means I can recommend a brew, especially when patients come in on cold mornings. It's not all 'Chez Anna', I do help on the phones and field enquiries at the desk as well.

What is something about your job that not many people know about, and what would surprise other people about working in a private hospital?

What would surprise people about my job, especially in a private hospital, is that our patients want to create relationships. People look for reassurance and some camaraderie, especially when they come for injections. 

No-one looks forward to having an injection in the eye, and so many are just simply anxious when they arrive. You can't be afraid of bonding in this job.

What do you like to do outside of work and/or what is something your colleagues don't know about you?

Outside work I love books, especially classics, and I enjoy opera. My family are musical, and we love reading.

What is the best piece of advice you've ever received?

The best advice I ever received came from an older friend here in Perth. She told me whatever anyone has to say about you is none of your business. I think it's the best advice you can give anyone.

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Next Interviews:
6/9/2023 Olivia Paola - Brunswick Private Hospital

Previous Interviews:
8/8/2023 Craig Marshall - Hillcrest Rockhampton Private Hospital