Julie Michelle O'Bryan, Ms: A Conversation with the Editor on Cardiac Rehabilitation at Baylor University Medical Center

Abstract

William Clifford Roberts, MD (hereafter, WCR): Julie, I appreciate your willingness to talk to me and therefore to the readers of BUMC Proceedings (Figure). Before we get into the rehabilitation program here at Baylor University Medical Center (BUMC), let me ask a few questions about you. When were you born and where did you grow up? What was your training in college and thereafter? Figure Julie Michelle O'Bryan during the interview. Julie Michelle O'Bryan, BS, MS (hereafter, JMO): I was born June 5, 1975, in Dallas and grew up in Richardson, graduating from Berkner High School. I received my bachelor of science degree in exercise and sport science at Texas Tech University. I did an internship immediately thereafter at Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas. After the internship I returned to Tech to get my master's degree in clinical exercise physiology, which focused on cardiac rehabilitation. Tech was a good place to study because the Lubbock area has 2 major hospitals with cardiac rehabilitation programs. WCR: What did you have to do to get your master's degree? JMO: Besides the classes, I had an internship at University Medical Center in Lubbock. After the internship I continued to work at that hospital until I earned the master's degree. I took classes in exercise physiology, gross anatomy, stress management, nutrition—all components of rehabilitation. WCR: Are you an athlete yourself? JMO: I played lacrosse at Tech for 6 years. WCR: How did you get to BUMC? JMO: While I was working in the cardiac rehabilitation department in Lubbock, my boss, Elaine Wilson, served on the board of the Texas Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation with Wendy Segrest. He heard from Wendy that there was going to be an opening at BUMC for an exercise physiologist. I sent my resume in, interviewed, and got the job. When I started I was a clinical exercise physiologist. After Wendy Segrest left, I was promoted to manager of cardiac rehabilitation and the Leap for Life program. WCR: How long have you been at BUMC? JMO: I came in May 2000. WCR: When did you come into your present position? JMO: Officially on May 11, 2001.1 was the interim supervisor from March to May 2001. Remy Tolentino, BUMC vice president, decided that I would be a good fit for this position. WCR: How many people in cardiac rehabilitation report to you? JMO: There are 2 nurses, 2 exercise physiologists, a dietitian, a social worker, and 2 medical secretaries. I share Jenny Adams, our PhD in exercise physiology, with Linda White. Two nurses fill in when someone is out. That is 9 full-time positions. WCR: I appreciate your taking me around to see the physical environs of the Walter I. Berman Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation Center. Have you seen another cardiac rehabilitation department as good as this one? JMO: No. We are so lucky to be in the Landry Center. It gives us some “extras” to work with.