Heather Zak
About Heather Zak
Heather Zak is a Care Manager at Cambia Health Solutions in Portland, Oregon, with over 21 years of clinical experience in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery. She has held various nursing roles, including Clinical Nurse Specialist at Mayo Clinic and PeaceHealth, and has a strong focus on patient education and care transitions.
Work at Cambia Health Solutions
Heather Zak has been employed as a Care Manager at Cambia Health Solutions since 2021. In this role, she is responsible for coordinating patient care and ensuring that individuals receive the necessary support and resources for their health needs. Her work is based in Portland, Oregon, where she has contributed to the organization's mission of improving health care delivery.
Previous Experience in Nursing
Prior to her current position, Heather Zak held various nursing roles, including Clinical Nurse Specialist at Mayo Clinic from 2012 to 2017 and again from 2017 to 2020. She also worked at PeaceHealth as a Clinical Nurse Specialist from 2009 to 2012. Her extensive experience includes 14 years as a Critical Care RN at Mayo Clinic, where she developed a strong foundation in critical care practices.
Education and Expertise
Heather Zak holds multiple nursing degrees, including a Master of Science in Nursing from Winona State University, achieved between 2006 and 2009. She also earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the same institution from 2004 to 2006, and a Diploma in Nursing from the Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology from 1987 to 1989. Her expertise includes mechanical circulatory support and patient education.
Clinical Specialization and Skills
Heather Zak specializes in cardiovascular/thoracic surgery and transplant critical care, with a clinical background spanning over 21 years. Her skills include wound and skin care, general surgery, emergency surgery, and multi-trauma care. She has also been involved in shared governance and clinical policy development, demonstrating her commitment to improving patient care.
Engagement in Quality Improvement
In her professional career, Heather Zak has engaged in product analysis, project management, and process and quality improvement initiatives. She has a keen interest in enhancing patient experience and care transitions, which reflects her dedication to advancing health care practices and improving outcomes for patients.