Anitra Thomas
Registered Nurse with the Comprehensive Care Program (CCP) at UChicago Medicine"Working in such a collaborative and patient-focused environment has strengthened my skills, clinical judgment and reinforces the importance of compassion and teamwork."
Anitra Thomas, RN, BSN, is a dedicated Registered Nurse with the Comprehensive Care Program (CCP) at UChicago Medicine. Before joining the CCP team in 2014, Thomas’s healthcare career spanned roles as a Medical Assistant, Licensed Practical Nurse and Registered Nurse.
In the CCP, Thomas plays a vital role in supporting patients through medical advice, patient education, appointment preparation, point of care testing, coordination of home health care and durable medical equipment. Known for her strong clinical knowledge, leadership skills, and compassionate communication, Anitra is passionate about continuity of care and improving patient outcomes through high quality, personalized care.
Q: Can you describe the work you do at the University of Chicago?
I work in the Comprehensive Care Program clinic, where I help manage a large patient panel and support both the patients and the clinical team with their day to day needs. My role involves coordinating care, responding to patient calls and my-chart messages, triaging concerns and ensuring that patients receive timely follow-up. I also work closely with providers and staff to keep clinic operations running smoothing and efficiently.
Q: How did you get into your role, and what drew you to working in an outpatient clinical setting?
I have worked in an outpatient setting for the majority of my career. I was drawn to this role because I like continuity of care, I enjoy working directly with patients, and being a consistent point of support for them. Outpatient care allows me to build relationships with patients, be involved in their overall care and make a meaningful difference in their health.
Q: You’ve been managing a very high volume of patient needs across many different channels. What does a typical day look like for you?
My day involves managing a high volume of phone calls, in-basket messages, my-chart messages and patient messages, while coordinating with providers and other team members. I prioritize urgent concerns, assist with care coordination, ordering DME equipment (Durable Medical Equipment), ordering home health, following up on INR/lab results and helping to address patient’s questions and concerns as they arise. At times, I’m also training new staff.
Q: What keeps you motivated when the workload is demanding?
What keeps me motivated is knowing that my work directly impacts patients’ care. It’s the small things, like returning a call, being a listening ear or helping resolve a concern that can make a big difference for someone. I’m also motivated by my team—we support each other and work together to provide the best care possible.
Q: You have had a great impact on the University—how has the University of Chicago impacted you?
The University of Chicago has provided me with opportunities to grow professionally and personally. Working in such a collaborative and patient-focused environment has straightened my skills, clinical judgment and reinforces the importance of compassion and teamwork.
Q: Beyond your role in the clinic, how do you like to spend your time?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, relaxing and finding ways to recharge. I also appreciate simple activities that help me maintain balance—whether that’s watching my favorite shows, reading, listening to music, baking my favorite pound cake or just taking time for myself.
Q: Is there anything you’d like to share with the UChicago community—a fun fact about yourself or something you’re currently working on?
I’m always looking for ways to improve and grow in my role, both clinically and professionally. A fun fact about me is that I’m officially an empty nester and currently adjusting to the new norm.