When we think of health care heroes, we often picture those at the bedside – but behind every accurate glucometer reading is someone who made sure those conducting the test was trained correctly. For the last 27 years, Margaret Amato and Agatha Simone have been those people.
These two powerhouse women have been the cornerstone of point-of-care testing at Saint Francis Hospital, particularly in glucose monitoring and i-STAT/point-of-care testing, a critical tool in managing patient care. From the early mornings in the lab to hands-on training sessions across departments, Margaret and Agatha have not only overseen our glucometer program but have personally trained over 10,000 nurses, nursing assistants, and ED techs.
Their work ensures every team member using a glucometer is competent, confident, and compliant with the highest standards, and their impact stretches far beyond technical instruction. Margaret and Agatha bring warmth, patience, and a deep sense of purpose to everything they do. They’ve mentored generations of clinical staff, troubleshooting devices, answering endless questions with grace, and always advocating for patient safety and quality care.
Beyond the numbers and knowledge, they are known for their team spirit, kindness, and unwavering dedication. They are often the first ones in, the last to leave, and never ask for the spotlight, which makes it even more important that we shine it on them!
To Margaret and Agatha – thank you for being the heartbeat of the lab, the wisdom behind the meters, and the quiet force that has helped shape better care for thousands of patients. We see you, we appreciate you, and we are endlessly grateful!
Submitted by Nirav Rajpura, Supervisor, Clinical Services, Inpatient Phlebotomy, Saint Francis Hospital.
Have a story you want to share? Submit your story at TrinityHealthOfNE.org/YourStories
Margaret Amato shows a glucometer, which she helps train colleagues on for point-of-care testing at Saint Francis.
Agatha Simone leads a training session on glucometer usage at Saint Francis.