Employee Spotlight: Margaret Zappia

Paradise staff member Margaret has been a part of the Paradise Dermatology family for nearly 12 years—since the birth of the practice! As Patient Care Representative Team Lead, compassion and care are at the very forefront of Margaret’s role. Read all about her here and discover what she loves about Paradise Dermatology, how she spends her downtime, and more.

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1. What’s the most unique part about working at Paradise Dermatology?

The most unique part about working at Paradise Dermatology is knowing I work for providers that give their patients the best care anyone could ask for. I work with the finest co-workers, all with the same goal, and that is to make sure the patients have a great experience. While our office is filled with so many different personalities, it is so nice to see how they all mesh together becoming a true Paradise family.

2. What inspired you to begin a career in healthcare?

Since I was very young, I always loved to care for people and animals. I always knew my direction would be medical. I have worked in various medical fields such as pharmacy, psychiatry, respiratory therapy, and ophthalmology. I love gaining as much knowledge as I can along the way. This is the first job I have ever worked in administration as opposed to being hands on with the patients, but I am finding I still am able to learn from the clinical end. I worked as a probate assistant to see if I would like that as well, but I didn't have the passion or interest that I found in medical.

3. Who motivates you to be your very best?

I would say my parents' teaching has always motivated me to be my very best. My father was a stickler for advising to give 110% to anything you do. I taught my children the same thing and I try to set an example for them. As a result, I am driven to treat our patients as I would treat my own family. I love that I am able to reassure them when they arrive nervous for a scheduled procedure or when I can ease their worry when they call with a concern. I feel that when you genuinely care about others, it shows through. I love the rapport I have with our patients and I feel if I can do or say something to make their day, it in turn makes mine.

4. Since beginning your role at Paradise, what has been your proudest moment at work?

My proudest moment at work is seeing the growth of this amazing practice. I have been with Dr. Pennie from the beginning, for almost 12 years. I have been privileged to watch her grow from the original small office to three offices. To be part of this process from the beginning has made me feel like part of its success. I continually hear positive comments from patients about Paradise and it makes me proud to work here, especially with the amazing Paradise family.

5. What do Paradise patients mean to you?

I truly love our Paradise patients. Some patients have been coming to us for years and I have developed quite a bond with them. I love when they share their stories or are quick with a joke. It's such a gift to be able to connect with the public. Every person has their own story and there is always something that can be learned from others.

6. What’s your favorite pastime or hobby outside of work?

When I am not working, I love spending time with my family whether we go away, go bowling, to the beach, or just watch a movie. I also enjoy walking my dogs, working in my yard, fixing up my house, and visiting with friends. In quiet moments, I love to write poetry and music. With the busyness of life, I don't always get to do all these things as often as I would like, but I do try. I have found that my greatest pleasures are in the simple things. No one is promised tomorrow, so I take each day as it comes and count my blessings.

7. Favorite way to relax on a Sunday night?

Sunday night is my time to regroup for the week ahead. I like to prepare an early dinner to share with my family. Dinner is sometimes followed up with a sunset walk on the beach or a stroll with my dogs. My family is usually up for a movie and then it's off to bed.

8. What’s one skin care product you can’t live without?

If I had to pick one skin care product I had to have, it would be my Elta MD sunscreen. I do like to spend time outdoors, and being Scandinavian, I definitely need the protection. I would never be able to do my outside activities without it!