Meet Claudia Pinheiro: medical secretary and head of operations programming.

Dear Claudia, what's a typical day like with you?

8am: receiving requests
I often start the day by checking requests for operations. This includes receiving new operations to be programmed, urgent requests or changes to schedules. Then I check the surgeons' diaries and the operating theatres to see what slots are available and make sure there are no duplications.

10h
Once the day's programme has started, it's time to meet the patients! I talk to them to confirm the dates, answer their questions and above all provide them with the necessary information (preparation, post-operative appointments, etc.). I also prepare their medical files for the operation, and make sure that all the information (health questionnaires, consents, examinations, implants) is up to date.

During the day
I try to manage any unforeseen circumstances as best I can. Sometimes there are cancellations or emergencies. So I have to adjust the schedules accordingly, often reorganising several operations!

4pm: administration
The end of the day is devoted to administration. For example, I validate the operations scheduled and update the databases.

If you had a magic wand...?

If I had a magic wand, I'd do lots of things! Maybe create a world where everything runs smoothly, travel the world instantly...

I could also save myself a lot of stress and fatigue on a daily basis, while making my environment more pleasant. And who wouldn't dream of travelling or making their dreams come true at the snap of a finger? Every weekend on a different beach!

Do you have a passion?

In my spare time, I really enjoy spending time with my family, especially my children. We like to do things together, and one of my passions is baking, especially cakes and cupcakes!

And if you had to keep just one book in your library?

My favourite would have to be The Count of Monte Cristo, by Alexandre Dumas! It's a novel of adventure and revenge, telling the story of Edmond Dantès, a sailor who is unjustly imprisoned and seeks revenge on those who betrayed him. This book is full of intrigue, twists and turns and unforgettable characters. A literary masterpiece, to be read again and again!