When it comes to work, taking care of one’s overall well-being is key in any role. At Disneyland Resort, a dedicated team of healthcare professionals is available to provide care to all cast members who need it supporting a holistic approach to cast member safety and wellness.
The healthcare teams at the resort are divided into two key groups: Guest Health Services, which provides first aid to guests visiting the parks, and Cast Health Services, which focuses on supporting cast members with wellness programs, resources and medical guidance.
More than just a clinic, Disney Cast Health Services serves as a place where cast members can seek advice, reassurance and expert medical support. From initial examinations, preventive wellness programs and flu vaccinations, this team ensures that everyone has access to the care needed to perform at their best every day regardless of healthcare insurance and status.
With over 20 healthcare professionals bringing years of experience and passion to their roles, nurses like Samantha Aleksiejczyk, Connie Chang, Leilani Fraley and Angela Gallegos-Macias, each contribute unique backgrounds to the team, but united by a shared mission – of caring for their fellow cast members.
Samantha’s story
Cast member Samantha poses in front of the Disneyland park First Aid building.
Being a registered nurse at Disneyland Resort is a unique and coveted role.
“The work we do goes beyond just providing medical care. It’s about creating a space where cast members feel safe, supported and empowered to take care of themselves,” said Samantha, an occupational nurse manager for Cast Health Services.
Samantha’s passion for the company inspired her to apply for a floor nursing job at Disneyland Resort six years ago, after previously working as an emergency room nurse.
In 2021, she was asked to temporarily step into a leadership role. What started as a short-term opportunity evolved into a full-time career, and today, she continues to care for cast members with the same enthusiasm she began her journey with.
Connie’s journey
Disneyland Resort nurse Connie checks vitals.
For Connie, a registered nurse and former food and beverage cast member, returning to the resort after earning her master’s degree in nursing and gaining experience in the field felt like coming full circle.
Connie is a trainer for nurses who are new to Cast Health Services, providing them with the tools and knowledge they need to best serve such a unique workforce.
“In my role, I get to educate cast members about the care they might need and guide them to the right treatment. That’s a huge part of how we build trust and keep them safe,” she said.
Leilani’s approach
Disneyland Resort nurse Leilani pictured in front of Disneyland Resort First Aid.
With 17 years of experience working as a registered nurse, Leilani first discovered that nurses worked at the parks while visiting the resort as a guest.
She had never considered that a theme park would have nurses dedicated to supporting both guests and cast members alike, but seeing the nurses in action eventually lead her to explore the opportunity to become part of the Guest Health Services team nearly a decade ago.
Now, as a nurse on the Cast Health Services team, Leilani has come to understand the strong bond between cast members and the health services team. “Cast are always welcome at the clinic and shouldn’t hesitate to seek care if they need it,” she said.
Angela’s purpose
Disneyland Resort nurse Angela stands in front of Disneyland park First Aid building.
Every moment Angela devotes to supporting cast members only strengthens her reason behind becoming a nurse. “There’s always been a deep sense of purpose in my work. If I can make a cast member feel better, more comfortable, or more confident in their health, then I know I’ve done my job well.”
Having spent 23 years with The Walt Disney Company, Angela serves as the company’s public health nurse, caring for cast members on both coasts. Angela also leads blood pressure clinics and safety talks for the resort and finds fulfillment in connecting with cast members.
Supporting cast beyond the clinic
Disneyland Resort nurse Connie assists a cast member.
In addition to the invaluable support the Cast Health Services team provides, cast members have access to a variety of health and wellness benefits. These include the Employee Assistance Program, conveniently located first aid kits throughout the resort and a dedicated nurses’ hotline for quick guidance.
A full-service pharmacy offers discounted rates on both over-the-counter medications and personal prescriptions for cast members. Athletic trainers are available for those who need support with motor skills, and Cast Care provides additional resources like Elder Care and Child Care programs for cast members balancing family responsibilities with their work life. No matter the situation, these resources equip cast members with the support they need to stay healthy and safe at work and home.
Cast members can also visit Dr. Seung Lee, the Chief Physician at Disneyland Health Services, whose main goal is to deliver the highest quality of occupational health services.
“I joined Disneyland Health Services because I wanted the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of a large cast population. I am passionate about identifying health and safety risk factors for cast members and developing effective solutions to enhance their well-being,” he said.
This incredible team of nurses, doctors and pharmacy staff work together to support those who create unforgettable guest experiences throughout the resort. Whether it’s a routine check-up or a need for reassurance, Cast Health Services is always there for cast members – because caring for the people who make the magic is just as important as the magic itself.
Are you interested in working at The Happiest Place on Earth? Visit DisneyCareers.com to learn more.