Get to know: Matt Wekell
Matt Wekell is the Director of Care Coordination at Mercy Gilbert Medical Center. He has been with the organization for over 10 years and started as a registered nurse at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center.
How do you see your work within Mercy Gilbert helping to fulfill the organization’s mission and vision?
My work at Mercy Gilbert helps fulfill the organization’s mission and vision by leading and collaborating with my compassion Care Coordination team. We focus on enhancing the patient experience by providing seamless, well-coordinated care that addresses diverse patient needs, from cultural, social, and economic factors. Our efforts to reduce unnecessary readmissions and streamline care help improve quality while managing costs. Collaboration is key, as we work closely with providers, therapists, nurses and others to deliver holistic, patient-centered care.
Why do you give to the Dignity Health Foundation East Valley?
I give to the Dignity Health Foundation East Valley because I strongly believe in our mission of caring for one another and showing compassion - what we call “Hello Humankindness.” I also believe in the "quest for better." There’s always room to improve for our patients, community, and our teammates. We have so much to learn, and achieve in our healthcare system, and giving is one way to support that progress.
What does gratitude mean to you and does it play a role in why you give?
To me, gratitude means connecting with others by expressing thankfulness and appreciation through self-reflection. It absolutely plays a role in why I give. I know I am very blessed, and I want to show my gratitude to those who have helped, supported, educated, and even tough-loved me along the way. Their influence has allowed me to grow and improve, not just for myself but for my team and the patients we serve.
What’s your fondest memory of working for Mercy Gilbert?
I have been blessed with so many positive experiences during my time in the East Valley and at Mercy Gilbert. Some of my fondest memories included working with Candy Skinner and collaborating closely with the nursing leadership team. One highlight was at a Senior Leaders meeting where we played a game show. It was a lot of fun!
What’s one fun fact others might not know about you?
I may enjoy karaoke every now and again even though I am a terrible singer.