This post is sponsored by Rochester International Airport
It’s a sight Debra Conger sees daily– travelers arriving at Rochester International Airport and relief spreads across their faces as they see her under the Mayo Clinic Information sign. “Patients are so happy that there is Mayo Clinic information here, and any help with getting to their appointments at Mayo Clinic.” With 24 years of experience at Rochester International Airport, Conger is the perfect person to help. The dedication of Conger and her colleagues is just one of the many reasons that make RST the smart way to travel.
Transportation
“We are there to help patients get to Mayo Clinic, yes, but we are really here to help anyone in any way we can to make the trip to Rochester as pleasant as possible,” Conger explains. This includes helping passengers navigate air and ground travel. The small size of the airport makes wayfinding very easy, with quick access to security, gates, baggage claim, and ground transportation. Whether travelers are looking for a rental car, Uber/Lyft, shuttle, or taxi service, RST is ready to help with ground transportation desk staff who can assist travelers find their ride.
Serving Patients and Travelers With Compassion
Rochester International Airport is staffed and ready to help anyone, especially those with medical needs who may require extra assistance. One of those important services is Mayo Clinic Concierge Services. “Most people don’t realize Mayo Clinic has staff at the airport to meet and greet patients from all over the world. Patients are amazed how far Mayo Clinic will go to help people from start to end at the Rochester International Airport,” says Conger. Skycap services are available for passengers requesting curbside assistance with wheelchairs and/or luggage. As a hub for travelers with medical needs, RST and TSA employees are trained to assist travelers with medical needs and disabilities and can answer questions regarding the security screening process to make travel as easy and stress-free as possible.
Deb Conger - Mayo Clinic Concierge Services
Quiet Rooms & Lactation Rooms
Rochester International Airport has three Quiet Rooms/Lactation Rooms that can be used by travelers needing a quiet place to rest, or can be used at any time by nursing mothers. The rooms are equipped with a bed or recliner, and an adjacent private restroom. Travelers can request access from airport or airline personnel. Having a quiet space to rest while waiting for a flight is just one of many ways RST goes the extra mile to support travelers, their needs, and unique circumstances.
Caring Tails Pet Therapy
For those traveling during peak times, they might spot a friendly wagging tail headed their way. Caring Tails offers pet therapy for travelers to ease anxiety, provide stress relief, and care. These highly trained dogs and their handlers are always on the lookout for anyone needing a friendly face, calming pets or extra snuggles, and a kind word. Read more about Caring Tails and meet one therapy duo- Gayle & Buddy- here.
Making Connections
Conger is quick to share how much she still loves her job after all of these years. “There are MANY stories I could share, but one of the best things is when they [travelers] remember you from years ago and how helpful we are. I wish I had kept a book of the people and the stories (happy and sad) that have come through the airport since I’ve been there. It has been an amazing job, and that is why I am still here at the Mayo Clinic information desk. Every day has a story!” Conger and her colleagues at RST will be there to greet travelers with a smile, a helpful word, and expert assistance.
