Meet Maria Miranda – The Heartbeat of Patient Advocacy
In the bustling halls of Moffitt Cancer Center, one individual stands out for her unwavering commitment to patients and their families — Maria Miranda, a dedicated Patient Advocate at Moffitt McKinley Hospital (MMH). Miranda has been the compassionate bridge between the clinical staff and patients, making sure every concern is heard and addressed with empathy and efficiency.
"I believe in being more proactive than reactive," Miranda shares, highlighting her approach to patient advocacy. "Every day is different here. You never know what challenges you might face, but what remains constant is our commitment to making our patients feel at home, even in difficult circumstances."
Miranda started her journey at Moffitt a year ago on the Magnolia campus. Her dedication and passion quickly stood out, leading her to join the team at MMH for its opening, where she continues to make a significant impact.
"I think the setting here is beautiful," Miranda said. "People don't even feel like they have walked into a hospital. It's a different feeling, and that's what we strive to create."
A day in Miranda's life is filled with interactions that reflect her deep commitment to patient care. At the start of her shift, her first stop is always the lobby where she greets patients, ensuring they feel welcomed and comfortable. From there she moves through the different floors making herself available to anyone needing assistance.
Her approach to patient advocacy is deeply personal. "I don't ask, 'How can I help you?' I ask, 'How can I serve you?'" Miranda explains. "It's important for patients to feel that they're not just another case but that someone genuinely cares about their well-being."
Her genuine care for all patients shines through as she often steps in to assist Spanish-speaking patients, guiding them through the process and ensuring they feel supported.
Miranda's dedication extends beyond just handling concerns and complaints. "I don't like to use
One of the most profound experiences in her career involved a patient who brought together 25-30 family members before a major surgery. "She knew the risks and wanted to spend time with her loved ones," Miranda recalled. "What struck me was her husband's strength. He was losing his best friend, yet he was the one comforting everyone else. It taught me that even in adversity, love and support are paramount."
Miranda's work ethic is unparalleled. She admits to being a workaholic, but her reasoning is simple, she’s passionate about her role and her relationship with patients, stating that she wants them to feel supported and that no issue is left unresolved.
The invaluable expertise and support of her team is what makes Miranda love Moffitt. She shares that working under the guidance and leadership of Cristina Perez, director of Patient Experience, has been instrumental in her journey and in creating an environment where patient advocacy can truly thrive.
Maria Miranda's dedication, compassion and proactive approach make her an invaluable team member. Her work not only addresses immediate concerns but also fosters an environment of trust and care that is essential for healing and support. In every interaction, she embodies the spirit of true patient advocacy, making a lasting difference in the lives of those she serves.
