From tow trucks to health care: meet our new patient care coordinator

Martell “Tell” Stokes recently joined Fred Hutch’s proton therapy facility from UW Medicine, where he was a radiology scheduler for six years.  Although he learned a lot and enjoyed the work, he was ready for a new challenge. Becoming a patient care coordinator (PCC) gives him the chance to build on his scheduling and patient care experience while taking on a larger role supporting patients.

As a PCC, Stokes helps coordinate medical records and imaging. He also manages scheduling and communicates with outside facilities and makes sure everything is in place for patients and care teams. Every patient’s situation is unique and requires individual attention, including working through insurance requirements or timing issues with outside facilities.

“It has taught me how important communication, organization and attention to detail are in making sure patients receive the care they need without unnecessary delays,” he said. “I enjoy being able to help make the process easier for them. There are a lot of moving parts, and I like knowing that the work I do helps reduce stress.”

Stokes hasn’t always worked in health care. For many years, he helped people in other ways — on the roadside as a tow truck driver.

“I enjoyed the independence, the variety and the fact that every day brought something different,” he said of the work. “I worked with all kinds of people and situations. Eventually, I realized that physically demanding work was not something I could do forever. I chose to go into health care because it has opportunities for professional growth and the benefit of helping people at a difficult time.”

Stokes has three grown children and two grandchildren and is getting married in October. His family has always been one of his biggest sources of motivation. They inspire him to keep growing, work hard and continue working on becoming the best version of himself, both personally and professionally, he said.

“My family makes me happy,” he said. “Having my children and grandchildren close by is something I truly value and appreciate.”

Something that might surprise people about Stokes is that he loves collecting fragrances. Currently, he has around 60 varieties in his collection. The hobby started with his father and uncles, who always took pride in smelling good.

“I’ve developed a genuine appreciation for different fragrance houses, scent profiles, individual notes and the artistry that goes into creating a great fragrance,” he said.

Stokes also enjoys fashion, baking, music and spending time relaxing and laughing.

Please congratulate Stokes on his upcoming wedding when you next see or speak to him.