“Dialysis is far from boring,” Marshia says. “Each patient requires a tremendous amount of management, oversight, and honestly, pure nursing perspective.” That realization ignited a career spanning research, policy, operations, and patient-centered leadership. Marshia’s work with two academic medical centers placed her at the forefront of change in renal healthcare. She’s been involved in research that redefined how dialysis is delivered, contributed to the discovery of genetic causes of ESRD, and influenced national policy, all with the intention to improve lives for patients with kidney disease.
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Her commitment to excellence extends into her long-standing membership in the Renal Healthcare Association (RHA). “Staying abreast of issues through this organization has been invaluable to me and to our organization,” she says. “RHA was founded to help dialysis providers deliver safe and competent care, and it still delivers on that promise.”
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Marshia was introduced to the Association by former HSM CEO Alex Kemp, one of the early leaders of what was then the National Renal Administrators Association (NRAA). He ensured that every facility manager had access to membership and the education and collaboration it offered. Marshia has honored that legacy by continuing to champion RHA’s values within her organization.
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Her advice for new leaders in dialysis is heartfelt and wise:
“Make sure your personal mission and vision align with the organization you lead. Hire people smarter than you. Learn something every day. A team of experts will always accomplish more than one person alone. And breathe - some days will be tough, but the rewards far outweigh the bad.”
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Outside of operations and policy, Marshia is most fulfilled by moments of human connection, especially with patients who are upset or dissatisfied. “While many try to avoid negativity, I love sitting with patients who are unhappy and trying to find solutions that lead to positivity for everyone,” she says. “I want them to know I’m here to do the right thing every day.”
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