Dedicated. Warm. Unshakably Reliable.
From the moment a patient learns they’ll need spine surgery to the day they walk into the operating room, there’s someone quietly making sure every detail is in place—Ashlin.
As Vertrae®’s Medical Assistant working remotely in surgery scheduling and prior authorizations, Ashlin is the calm in the whirlwind. She’s thorough, thoughtful, and deeply invested in every patient’s journey. She’s the one making sure insurance approvals are secured, questions are answered, and Dr. Woods’ surgical schedule runs like clockwork.
“I provide vital surgical information for patients and answer any and all questions they may have about their procedure, ensuring they feel comfortable and have no further concerns. My goal is to have a full surgery schedule for Dr. Woods, and to make sure every patient feels confident they’re in the right hands.”
Why She Chose This Path
Ashlin’s inspiration to work in healthcare runs deep. Her grandmother, a CNA, modeled a life of service and care, and Ashlin knew she wanted the same kind of meaningful work.
“I wanted a career that I felt was fulfilling and one I could grow with.”
That sense of purpose only deepened when she worked in a mental health facility and met a patient whose humor and spirit left a lasting mark.
“She reminded me that life should always be taken with a grain of salt and a good laugh. Caring for her gave me joy and a sense of purpose. In that moment, I knew I wanted a career helping others.”
A Day in Ashlin’s World
No two days are the same for Ashlin. Some are filled with problem-solving: untangling scheduling errors, handling last-minute cancellations, or navigating insurance denials. Others move with ease. She welcomes both.
At the end of the week, there’s a special kind of satisfaction in looking at the completed cases for the upcoming surgical week, knowing she’s played a key role in moving patients toward a healthier future.
“To know that I made a difference for Dr. Woods means a lot to me.”
Her Philosophy on Care
Ashlin wants every patient to feel the same thing when they walk through Vertrae®’s doors: safety and trust.
On challenging days, she keeps perspective by brewing a good cup of coffee, playing soft background music, and leaning into her faith. She reminds patients they are in the best hands with Dr. Woods, and she reminds her teammates that she sees their hard work and appreciates it.
Life Beyond Work
Away from the computer screen, Ashlin’s life is as full as it is grounded. She spends time fishing with her son, swimming with her daughter, walking with her mom, and caring for her flock of hens (who are, by all accounts, a little spoiled).
Her evenings are often cozy: hot cocoa, the movie Hocus Pocus, junk food, and her cat Mocha on her lap with her dog Meatball at her side.
She’s also a fan of all things mystical—werewolves, vampires, and fantasy novels—and she dreams of one day becoming a skilled herbalist.
A Few of Ashlin’s Favorites
🐔 Off-Duty Joy: Caring for her hens and collecting fresh eggs
📖 Favorite Reads: Mystical, fantasy, and supernatural stories
☕ Coffee Order: White chocolate mocha
🍗 Lunch Spot: Chick-fil-A
🎯 Dream Skill: Herbalism
🐾 Constant Companions: Mocha the cat and Meatball the dog
Final Thought
Ashlin may work behind the scenes, but her impact is felt in every successful surgery and every reassured patient. She’s the bridge between uncertainty and preparedness, ensuring that when the big day comes, patients feel confident, informed, and cared for.
In the complex world of spine surgery, Ashlin proves that organization and compassion are just as essential as surgical skill—and that the heart behind the process matters just as much as the hands in the operating room.
