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Data expert’s least favorite memory: getting pepper-sprayed

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Like many UT Southwestern employees, Bruce Folchert has a vision for contributing to the community and making the world a better place. His idea is a bit unconventional though, reflecting his personality.

“I would love to develop some way of instantly teaching people in Dallas how to drive! That would make everyone happier,” he says with a smile.

All joking aside, his real talent is figuring out how things work, a critical asset in his job as a Senior Business Analyst in Health System Information Resources. His work lies in supporting EPIC (UT Southwestern’s electronic health record system) for inpatient care at William P. Clements Jr. University Hospital.

A typical day involves collaborating with admissions staff to help with workflows and identifying possible improvements in admissions, discharges, and transfers.

Mr. Folchert, who started working at UTSW in 1985, has a range of experiences in his background.

“The reason I love working here is that I’ve had endless opportunities to learn new things,” he says.

One unusual workplace memory stands out. At his first UTSW job, Mr. Folchert received pepper spray training as a police officer at the former St. Paul University Hospital. “The training basically entailed getting sprayed! Our Chief thought it would be helpful for the officers to know the effects firsthand,” he says. “I did use this training just one time while on the job, and I hope that will be the only time.”

When not at work, Mr. Folchert enjoys spending time with family and friends – plus doing just about anything outdoors.

While it’s true that his analytical mind can solve puzzles quickly, he is still working on solving the biggest puzzle of all – Dallas traffic.

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