Post by Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services

“It’s not that what we did changed dramatically in our office because of the pandemic, it was just much more of it, all at once. We were busier than we ever could have imagined.” “Busy” is certainly one word for the work life of Magen Schachta the chief medical officer’s assistant during the height of COVID-19. Others like “frantic, stressed, pressured, berserk, hectic, and crazy,” would also apply. That’s because everything seemed to change from day to day. “It’s a 24/7 thing to be in charge of reports, and to maintain the chief medical officer’s daily meeting schedule,” Schachta said. Nebraska’s chief medical officer is Dr. Gary Anthone who, during the toughest days of the pandemic, was on the phone by 6 a.m. and in meetings stretching into the wee hours, often on behalf of Nebraska’s effort ensure the best use of open hospital beds through uniquely insightful application of Directed Health Measures. Perhaps “intensity” should be added to the list of descriptors above. Schachta’s job satisfaction comes from knowing her work makes a difference. “I love helping in any way possible and making things comes together. Being able to help is rewarding,” Schachta said. Thank you, Magen Schachta, for your dedication to Nebraska’s vaccination efforts, and helping us to all #FINISHSTRONG.