Being “just me”
Employee Spotlight | Erica Watters
Being genuine is important to Erica Watters. It’s the one trait she hopes patients sense when they interact with her in the Open Door Dental department.
“I think a lot of patients have gone other places and felt judged,” said Erica, the dental department’s senior patient coordinator. “I want our patients to feel comfortable and know that I am being authentic with them.”
Marsha Mrkall, one of Open Door’s dental hygienists, agrees that Erica’s openness and sincerity has a positive impact on patients and co-workers.
“Erica is the backbone of the dental department. She is a familiar, friendly face to our patients and a calming presence when things get hectic,” said Marsha. “She goes out of her way to help staff members get information for patients and many times will do more than is required. She always does the right thing.”
Erica moved to Muncie from South Bend in 2005. She had her medical assistant certification and Open Door was hiring. It turned out to be a good match. Over the years, she’s worked in primary care, pediatrics, women’s health, and now dental. She’s thankful for the flexibility Open Door offers its employees when life’s challenges pop up.
She also sings the praises of her current department. “We have a great team in dental,” said Erica. “We are a group of diverse personalities, but we support each other. My co-workers make each day for me.”
When big changes to the dental billing system took place in 2023, Erica was instrumental to both the dental and finance departments. “Erica was eager to learn new processes as well as give valuable input for decisions,” shared Connie Taylor, vice president of finance. “She was willing to assist, learn, and collaborate.”
Logan Hood, director of revenue cycle, said, “Erica took on additional responsibilities that were not previously in her wheelhouse. She stepped up to learn, manage, and teach new skills, often times without even being asked to do so. She continues to surpass expectations and excels at anything requested of her.”
In 2023, Erica Watters received Open Door’s “Do the Right Thing” award, part of the annual awards program honoring team members who exemplify the mission, vision, and values of the organization. “I’m just doing my job, and I like feeling needed,” said Erica about the recognition. “I’m just me.”