A conversation with Lead Scheduler Joe Hagen

Meet Joe Hagen, lead scheduler at Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London. He plays a pivotal role to ensure the clinic runs smoothly, coordinating across departments and interacting with patients to enhance their experience. Learn more about his role, what motivates him in his job and his vision for Mayo Clinic Healthcare.

What does your job entail?

My day-to-day can vary quite a bit. It usually consists of answering phone calls, responding to emails, assisting team members with their questions and helping any department in the building solve whatever issues they encounter. I touch pretty much every floor in a day and interact with just about everyone.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The most rewarding part is interacting with patients and seeing them improve over time. One of the highlights is when I see someone that I scheduled a year ago return, and they're doing better than when they first came in. Building a rapport with patients and seeing their progress is incredibly satisfying.

Can you share a memorable experience with a patient?

I once had a patient who was an older woman, and she was having trouble walking. I held her hand and gave her some support, and she started to cry because she said no one had held her hand in years. That simple act made such a difference to her, and it was one of those moments where I realised how powerful even small gestures can be in healthcare.

What can patients expect when they come to Mayo Clinic Healthcare?

Patients can expect to be seen by our clinical team and attended to by our administrative staff. If they have any questions, our team is always responsive, whether by phone or email. We make sure that patients feel confident, heard and understood. Our goal is to address their needs holistically.

Outside of work, what are your passions?

Outside of work, I love spending time in nature, hanging out with my family and cooking — probably eating a bit too much, too! I'm a big fan of cheese.

What motivates you in your job?

I'm passionate about improving things and making them a little better every day. At work, I really focus on building something greater than the sum of its parts. For me, the value that resonates most with my work is stewardship — making sure that what we're doing today will ensure success 10, 20 or even 50 years down the road.

Why did you choose to work at Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London?

I had previously worked at Mayo Clinic in the US, and that was my favourite job ever. The work was meaningful, every day was a new challenge and I had the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives. When the opportunity came to join Mayo Clinic in London, I couldn't pass it up. It's exciting to be part of something new, especially with a personal connection to the organisation's history.

Tell us more about your connection to Mayo Clinic

I was born and raised in Rochester, Minnesota, which is where the original Mayo Clinic is located. My great-great-grandfather was the tailor for the Mayo brothers. He made all their surgical gowns and suits. It's nice to have that personal connection to the history of Mayo Clinic, and now I get to continue that legacy in London.

What's your vision for Mayo Clinic Healthcare?

My vision is to create a seamless experience for our patients, whether they're in London, Rochester, Arizona or Florida. No matter where they are in the Mayo Clinic system, the experience should be consistent and of the highest quality. It's all about providing world-class care, no matter the location.

How would you describe Mayo Clinic Healthcare in three words?

I'd describe it as exciting, challenging and an opportunity. We're doing something that's never been done before here in London, and every day we push the envelope a little further.