For John Manzano, a Medical Assistant (MA) and Provider at TrueCare Rancho Santa Fe QuickCare, a career in health care has always been about one thing: helping people. He first connected with TrueCare after seeing a flyer that he felt captured a mission that was more than a job. It was a true sense of community. Now, just a few months in, he has already discovered a supportive team and an opportunity to serve his community in a meaningful way and feels like he has found his professional calling in community health care.

Learn more about his journey to learn why you will love working at TrueCare! 

[H2] A Career in Community Health Care: John Manzano on Finding Support at TrueCare

In an industry that can be high-stress and impersonal, Manzano’s story is proof that you can still find a job that is both thrillingly challenging and fulfilling. If you’re having trouble envisioning this, Manzano was more than happy to paint the picture for you. 

“I was looking for something different when I saw the TrueCare flyer. Once I saw the flyer, I realized that this seemed like something that was more than just an office or a place to work. I heard a lot of good things about TrueCare, so once I was able to apply, they hired me, and it turned out to be a great career opportunity,” smiled Manzano. 

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[H3] What Inspired You to Join Community Health Care?

John’s passion for health care began at a young age, with his desire to help others and give back to his community. 

“Growing up as a kid, I always had a passion for health care and helping people out in the streets. I would do that with my church. That’s where my passion started, and it’s when I knew I wanted to get more involved in health care,” recalled John. 

This desire to serve led him to pursue a career as a Medical Assistant at TrueCare, which he has been for three years, and has no plans of stopping. 

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[H3] What’s the difference between Working in a Private Practice and a Community Health Center?

Before joining TrueCare, John spent three years working in private practice. When asked about the difference between the two environments, he noted the expansive opportunities that a community health center provides. 

“I used to work at a private practice. That’s where I started. It was an orthopedic office, and from there, I kind of got to start my journey and moved to San Diego to start at another family practice,” explained Manzano.

Having had that experience, Manzano had some important insights into the differences between a private health practice and community health care.

“For me, community health care is great because I feel like I’ve been able to open more doors for patients to get them the care they need. I’ve also been able to help a more diverse population of patients. It’s definitely been an exciting and never-ending learning process, which keeps things interesting,” said Manzano. 

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[H3] What’s It Like to Be a Medical Assistant at a Community Health Center?

As an MA, John’s role is to ensure that both the providers and the patients have a good experience. He takes pride in making sure the day runs smoothly by setting up the clinic, checking inventory, and maintaining a positive atmosphere. 

“I’m responsible for setting up everything and making sure providers are prepared for the day. I also make sure the patients are good. As long as everyone comes in with a good attitude, I know it’s going to be a good day, so I take a lot of pride in setting the tone for the day in that way,” said Manzano.

Manzano also shared how he ensures his passion never wanes. 

“Coming in and making sure we have a good schedule and atmosphere and that everything’s up to date and stocked is something I really take pride in. I just remember that it’s really an important part of the health care process – that impression is the difference between a patient who feels comfortable and a patient who doesn’t, and a patient who doesn’t feel comfortable is more prone to not opening themselves up to receive the care that they truly need,” explained Manzano. 

Manzano also revealed that he was incredibly excited about a new opportunity at TrueCare that allows him to take his work beyond the walls of the health center. He is now involved in the Street Medicine program. 

“We’re gonna be going out to the streets to help the unsheltered patients who can’t come here – we’re taking the clinic to them. It’s not quite the same as our mobile units because we’re going to be going into their property and helping them in a closer, more personal environment. It’s really a big feeling for me – it makes me feel like I’m helping others in a meaningful way, and it really shows that TrueCare lives their values,” Manzano explained. 

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[H3] What Was the Interview Process Like at TrueCare?

Manzano provided some insights into the interview and onboarding process.

“The interview process was pretty good. There were a couple of steps, but it was a good process and I actually enjoyed the interview, which says a lot,” said Manzano.

He also offered some tips to applicants like you!

“I would honestly say that you shouldn’t be too nervous about it. Just go for it. They were very polite and nice to me from the very beginning, and they do a great job of making you feel comfortable, so don’t psyche yourself out. It’s also important to be polite and show you have a good attitude – that’s how everyone here is, so that’s an important value to showcase if you want to demonstrate why you would be a good fit,” shared Manano. 

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[H3] What Makes the TrueCare Team Special?

Even as a new employee, John has found a strong sense of community at TrueCare. 

“What I love about my team here is that, you know, since I started, they’ve all been really nice and unbelievably supportive. I still ask a lot of questions, and they’re always there to help me. That’s really important in this field, and it’s something that’s special about the culture we have at TrueCare,” he said. 

Manzano also celebrated the communication and collaboration with his colleagues, saying that it’s a really important part of the TrueCare culture and something that you should be adept at or willing to hone when you join the team.

“Communication with my team members and supervisors has been really good. Every time I need something or I feel like something’s off, I can ask them, and they reply right away or get back to me. Even when they’re not in the office, they’re always there for me as well. So communication at TrueCare is really, really good, and it’s a big part of what makes the culture so strong and supportive. You never have to shoulder the burden of health care alone here, and that’s a tremendous help and relief,” smiled Manzano.

The friendly atmosphere extends to potlucks and other team-building events, which have helped him feel like part of the family since day one. 

“It definitely feels like family when I come to work, and I truly enjoy working here. It’s been a great journey so far,” he recalled.

As far as the potential for growth and professional development, Manzano said he feels like the sky’s the limit. Even after only a few months, he sees a future for himself at TrueCare. 

“It’s almost immediately obvious that this is a very good place to grow. They have a lot of opportunities. My goal is to move up in the company, and I feel like everyone here is incredibly supportive in helping me reach that goal,” said Manzano.

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[H2] Are You Inspired by the Words of John Manzano? Apply for  Jobs in Women’s Health with TrueCare Today!

John Manzano’s journey shows that a career at TrueCare is for more than just a job. Working with our organization is an opportunity to join a supportive team and make a real difference in the communities that are too often underserved. 

If you’re a passionate Medical Assistant or health care professional looking for a purpose-driven career, TrueCare is waiting for you. Explore open positions, start your career, and find your professional calling with TrueCare.