CDM, CFPP of the Month - July 2016

Name: Mediha Topic, CDM, CFPP

Job Title: Food Service Director

Employer: Life Care Center of Aurora

Job Location: Aurora, CO

Years at Current Facility: 8

Years in Current Position: 10

CDM Since: January 2016

Why did you decide to become a CDM, CFPP?

I decided to become a CDM to provide better services and a more safe environment for my residents and employees.

What are your main responsibilities in your current position?

My main responsibilities include scheduling, patient visitation, and budget management.

How do you organize your time at work to make sure you accomplish all your responsibilities?

I prioritize more urgent responsibilities and use a schedule to stay on track.

What is an example of an innovative way you have made change at your facility and how did you implement it?

Throughout my career at Life Care Center of Aurora I’ve modified the dining service style from standard serving lines to restaurant-style dining. 
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What was your first job in the foodservice industry?

My first job in the foodservice industry was a dietary aide position at Christian Living campus.
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Who has been your biggest mentor in foodservice and how have they helped shape your career?

Michelle Wolfe has been my biggest mentor because she hired me as a dietary aide even though I couldn’t speak English and she encouraged me to take dietary manager classes after a few years of working with her. She believed in me from the very beginning.

What are the biggest challenges you face in your position and how do you handle them?

The biggest challenge I face is staffing. It’s hard to find hard-working employees who are loyal.

What is your favorite part of your job?

The favorite part of my job is when my residents are happy with the dining service.

How do you stay up to date with current innovations and trends?

I stay up-to-date by attending several trainings throughout the year and communicating on a daily basis with my regional dietary expert.
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How do you envision the foodservice industry in the next few years?

There might be more technology when it comes to ordering food. For example, residents could use tablets in order to place orders ahead of time before meals.

What is your advice to those just getting started in the foodservice industry?

If you are passionate about working in the food industry, work hard and you can accomplish whatever you aspire to achieve. There are plenty of possibilities and opportunities. All you have to do is be a caring, passionate, and hardworking individual.