http://www.palmbeachpost.com/money/sue-koff-palliative-care-clinical-manager-for-south-1765075.html?cxtype=ynews_rss

Helping patients with serious, life-limiting illnesses to relieve pain and suffering is rewarding work.

So says Sue Koff, the new palliative care clinical manager for South Florida Palliative Medicine Specialists, a new company under Spectrum Health, Inc., a not-for-profit corporation formed to support programs, services, activities and interests of Hospice of Palm Beach County and other affiliates.

"I go to work every day knowing that I can make a difference in someone's life," she says. "Every day is different. I work with and learn from amazing colleagues."

Koff began her new post about a month ago, but has been employed by Spectrum Health Inc. for 11 years. She works with physicians, hospitals and managed care providers to help patients manage symptoms, set health care goals, understand treatment options and make medical decisions and help providers reduce costs and provide more efficient care.

She supervises two nurse practitioners in collaboration with about 30 physicians.

Born in New Jersey, Koff moved nine times between first and ninth grade. Her interest in becoming a nurse was evident early on. Before working for Spectrum, she worked as a geriatric nurse.

"I read every single Cherry Ames (Ames was the central character in a series of mystery novels with hospital settings) book out there," Koff says. "I always wanted to make a difference. I always wanted to be learning and I never wanted to be bored."

She accomplishes all of those in the nursing profession, she says.

- Mary Thurwachter

Sue Koff's favorite quote:
'Live life for today for tomorrow is promised to no one.'

Making a difference
Age: 54.

Education: Bachelor's in nursing from Carlow College Pittsburgh, a master's in nursing from the University of Pennsylvania, and a post-master's gerontological nurse practitioner degree from University of Pennsylvania.

Personal: Married to Craig Koff, a nursing home administrator. They live in Boynton Beach.

Hobbies: Gardening, reading, cooking, physical activity.

Career highlight: "Being chosen to serve on the National Board for Certification of Hospice and Palliative Nurses Advanced Practice Examination Development Committee. I am currently serving on the board of directors."