In a world where personal experiences often shape our career paths, Yostina Armanyous, a CHOC medical scribe, stands out as a shining example.
Born to Egyptian immigrant parents, Yostina is not just a first-generation college graduate from the University of California, Irvine (UCI); she is also a survivor who has turned her challenging medical history into a mission to help others.
Diagnosed with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) at birth, she faced numerous challenges early on, requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and surgery shortly after entering the world.
CDH is a condition wherein a hole in the diaphragm allows organs to move up into the chest cavity, making it difficult to breathe and hindering organ growth.
Yostina’s survival was a testament to the dedicated care team who worked tirelessly to save her life. As a baby, Yostina underwent many procedures at other hospitals, including with Dr. Donald Shaul, now a CHOC surgeon.
Yostina’s curiosity about her medical history prompted her to request her medical records earlier this year from the hospital where she received treatment as a child. This inquiry led to the surprise discovery that she had previously worked as a CHOC medical scribe with Dr. Shaul, unaware that he had played a crucial role in her life-saving care.
This experience ignited a passion in Yostina, compelling her to give back to the medical community that helped her thrive.
“Because of my experience, I want to pay it forward,” Yostina shares. “I want to help those who might be in similar situations as I was, especially families dealing with CDH.”
Yostina began her journey at CHOC in 2021 through the MI4 summer internship program, where she quickly fell in love with the supportive environment and committed staff. After her internship, she was offered a position as a medical scribe, which she eagerly accepted.
Her hard work and dedication paid off when she was promoted to lead scribe, managing multiple specialties, including pediatric surgery, oncology and rheumatology. She now has her eyes set on a career as a surgeon.
As a medical scribe, Yostina acts as a liaison between physicians and patients, capturing essential medical histories, and ensuring that accurate records are maintained for future reference. She explains, “We are historians, communicating with the physicians while documenting everything that happens during a patient’s visit.”
Her dual role allows her to gain invaluable clinical experience while supporting the healthcare team.
Beyond her work, Yostina values the community at CHOC, often participating in events like the CHOC Walk, which fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie among staff and supporters alike.
Yostina’s passion for medicine stems from her desire to understand and improve the surgical procedures related to CDH. She aspires to specialize in pediatric surgery and conduct research on the condition to uncover answers to the questions that still linger in the medical community.
“There are still so many unknowns regarding why patients are born with CDH, and I want to contribute to that research,” Yostina shares.
As Yostina prepares to apply to medical school, she reflects on her time at CHOC with fondness. One of her most cherished memories is witnessing the very surgery that saved her life.
“Not many people get to observe the procedure that essentially saved them,” Yostina shares, highlighting the unique connection she has with the organization.
Watching the surgical team in action was not just a career highlight; it was a deeply personal moment that underscored her desire to become a physician, particularly a pediatric surgeon specializing in CDH.
Looking ahead, Yostina is determined to continue her journey in medicine, blending her personal experiences with her professional aspirations to make a significant impact in the field.
Her journey has not only been about her professional aspirations but also personal growth. Through her experiences, Yostina has learned to embrace the scars remaining from her surgery, which she sees as part of her story and identity.
“Scars tell a story. I’ve learned to love myself through that,” Yostina says with pride.
About CHOC
Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), a pediatric healthcare system based in Orange County, California, is committed to being a leading destination for children’s health by providing exceptional and innovative care.
Our mission is to nurture, advance and protect the health and well-being of children.
