April 2025
Suzanne Kalchik, a social worker for University of Michigan Health-Sparrow Women’s Health and Maternal Fetal Medicine, goes above and beyond to support her patients, providing guidance and care during their most difficult times.
“I chose social work because I knew I wanted to help people in some capacity. Health care just kind of happened,” Suzanne said. “I had an internship with a social worker in patient support services and I saw that I could help someone potentially having one of their worst days and I could be their advocate.”
That led her to University of Michigan Health-Sparrow, where she has been dedicated to her patients for the past 17 years, assisting patients with insurance concerns, access to food, transportation, safe housing, obtaining infant supplies and much more.
“Pregnancy is a life-altering event, and I try to help them prepare to bring a baby home,” she said.
Suzanne also helps patient with mental health concerns, domestic violence, or substance misuse.
“My hope is to support them through that time, so they don’t have to face those challenges alone,” she said.
Suzanne’s commitment to her patients recently led her to earn her Perinatal Mental Health Certification, further enhancing her ability to support women during and after pregnancy.
“It’s just part of who I am. I want to provide my patients with the tools they need to improve their personal situation and health. I go above and beyond because I can, and my patients deserve that,” she said.
Beyond her dedication to her patients, Suzanne is grateful for the team she works with every day.
“I also work with a wonderful group of kind, patient and empathetic people that just makes for the best environment,” she said.
Suzanne’s unwavering commitment to her patients and her passion for making a difference are just a couple of reasons why she is this month’s Sparrow Spotlight.