Kylie Jennissen, BSN, RN is the Clinical Sales Executive with Canopy Innovations. Kylie has worked as a Perioperative Nurse at Children’s Minnesota and Colorado before joining Canopy. As a healthcare worker who has struggled with caring for LEP patients, Kylie is keenly aware of the provider’s need for more effective communication support. In this Q&A she talks about her transition from bedside care to joining Canopy and how Canopy's mission supports her desire to make a broader impact in healthcare.
Why attracted you to join the Canopy team?
I was attracted to Canopy because of the company’s Mission. I thought it was very ambiguous to imagine that the language barrier could be eliminated. After speaking with Bill Tan, our founder, and hearing his vision I know it is possible. In my experience as a nurse, I have faced the challenges caused by the language barrier and how there are minimal resources for the LEP population.
Was it a difficult decision for you to make the switch from nursing?
Yes, it was difficult leaving the bedside. However, the reason I became a nurse is to make an impact and create change in healthcare. I know I can continue to do that at Canopy.
Was there an interaction or experience with LEP patients that shaped your view about language access?
I have had many interactions where I have experienced how the language barrier impacted patient care. Once I had a patient who came for a procedure to only find out it was unnecessary and was miscommunicated due to the language barrier.
How would you describe your role at Canopy?
My role at Canopy is constantly evolving but I would mainly describe it as a problem solver. I like working with health systems and academic institutions and coming up with ways to provide our solutions to the people who are making a difference on the frontline.
What is the most memorable thing you’ve heard from a Canopy user?
Just recently I was skiing and I came across a provider who utilizes CanopyLearn and they said it has helped them immensely while providing care to their Spanish-speaking patients. It was so fun to meet someone who has taken our course.
What is the most Inspiring thing about Canopy you’ve heard from a customer?
An OBGYN once told me that they were so frustrated with themself by not being able to speak Spanish that they took our course to be able to communicate with their patients at one of the most important times of their lives.
What are some of the creative ways customers are making use of Canopy’s products?
I recently spoke to a group of police officers that are taking CanopyLearn so that they can communicate utilizing critical medical terms in times of need.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about?
I am very excited about the direction Canopy is going in. We have a lot of great solutions in the works that will make even more of an impact. I wish these solutions were available to me during my time as a nurse.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I am an avid skier and when I retire my dream is to be on the ski patrol team if my knees are still good.
What is the one language you’d like to learn?
Sign Language
What’s your favorite travel destination?
I just went to Italy last year and that was definitely my favorite destination. It was fun to learn Italian phrases and be immersed in the culture.