Name: Swarna Mukhi Naick Bukke
Pronouns: She/Her
Semester of Internship: Fall 2025
Major: Health information technology
Current Class Level: Master's Student
This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship
Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Gentle dental care
Location of the Organization (City, State): 9360 richmond hwy, Lorton
Title of position: Patient Care Coordinator
Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
During my experience as a Patient Care Coordinator, I worked in a very busy clinic with a high patient volume and a large care coordination team. My day-to-day responsibilities focused on managing patient flow and ensuring smooth coordination between providers, patients, and administrative staff. I regularly used an EHR system, with Dentrix being the primary tool for scheduling appointments, maintaining accurate patient records, and updating treatment plans. I was actively involved in insurance verification, billing, and claim follow-ups, making sure coverage details were clearly communicated and payments were processed correctly. In addition, I educated patients about their treatment plans, procedures, and financial responsibilities, helping them understand their care and make informed decisions. This role strengthened my organizational, communication, and EHR skills while giving me hands-on experience in patient-centered care within a fast-paced clinical environment.
Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
I had been actively searching for internship opportunities throughout the summer of 2025, applying consistently and staying hopeful despite the challenges. Eventually, I came across this opportunity through Indeed, which marked a turning point in my journey. The interview process was thorough and competitive, involving three stages: an initial phone interview, an in-person interview, and a working interview. Going through each step helped me better understand the role and allowed me to demonstrate my skills and dedication in a real clinical setting. When I was finally selected and hired, I felt incredibly excited and motivated to learn. This opportunity meant a lot to me because it was the result of persistent effort, and it gave me valuable hands-on experience that strengthened my confidence and professional growth.
What resources did you use to find your current experience?
indeed
What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?
What I have enjoyed most about my position and the organization is the opportunity to interact closely with patients every day. I truly enjoy talking with patients, listening to their concerns, and making sure they feel comfortable, informed, and supported throughout their visit. Helping guide them to the right department or provider and ensuring they are in the right place at the right time gives me a strong sense of purpose. Being part of an organization that values patient-centered care has made this experience especially rewarding and meaningful for me.
How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
I believe I have made a positive impact through my work by improving the overall patient experience and supporting smooth clinic operations. By actively listening to patients’ concerns, educating them about their treatment plans and insurance details, and guiding them through each step of their visit, I helped reduce confusion and anxiety. I also ensured accurate documentation and coordination using the EHR system, which supported providers in delivering timely and efficient care. Through clear communication, organization, and compassion, I contributed to better patient satisfaction and a more efficient workflow within a high-volume clinical environment.
What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?
I would advise other students not to lose hope during their search and to keep trying in an authentic and consistent way. Even if opportunities don’t come immediately, use that time to learn new skills and strengthen your knowledge, because growth is still happening behind the scenes. Rejections or delays don’t mean failure they mean you are still in the learning process. Stay persistent, trust the process, and believe that the right opportunity will come at the right time if you keep putting in honest effort.