Saraih Cortez

Patient Service Representative & Certified Medical Assistant

Saraih Cortez is a Patient Service Representative at the District 21 Health Center, where she also assists as a Certified Medical Assistant. In her dual role, Saraih helps families feel welcomed from the moment they arrive, guiding them through scheduling, registration, and answering questions, while also supporting the clinical team with patient care. Her bilingual skills in Spanish and English allow her to connect with families and ensure they feel understood and supported.

Saraih brings years of experience in pediatrics, primary care, and specialty medicine. She is skilled in rooming patients, obtaining vitals, administering vaccines and medications, performing phlebotomy, and assisting with point-of-care testing. Her background also includes supporting providers with procedures, managing prior authorizations, and handling lab results. Whether at the front desk or in the exam room, Saraih’s calm and approachable nature helps create a positive experience for children and families.

She completed her Medical Assistant Certificate Program at Chicago ORT Technical Institute and is certified through the National Healthcareer Association and the American Heart Association. Saraih is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care while ensuring every patient feels welcomed and cared for.

PERSONAL INTERESTS & HOBBIES

Saraih loves spending time with her children and cherishes family time most of all.

Q&A

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO GO INTO HEALTH CARE?
“I’ve always liked working with kids and knew early on that I wanted to be in a role where I could help care for them. Being able to support children and their families feels meaningful to me.”

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
“I love the rewarding feeling that comes after taking care of someone. Knowing that I can help a patient feel better or make their visit a little easier makes my work so fulfilling.”

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?
“I’m proud of how far I’ve come—especially coming from nothing and working hard to build the life I have now.”

WHAT’S SOMETHING PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT YOU?
“I used to play the guitar!”

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COMFORT FOOD?
“Pozole—a rich, traditional Mexican stew made from hominy (processed corn kernels) and tender meat, most commonly pork or chicken.”

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE GROWING UP?
“Aquamarine!”