Q&A: Physician aspires to improve outcomes for underserved communities

Key takeaways:

• To provide the best possible care, stay informed about new research, treatments and patient care strategies, Aisha Mohammed, MD, said.
• Addressing social determinants of health is crucial.

Aisha Mohammed, MD, was led to the field of medicine with a specific focus on underserved communities after witnessing her mother’s challenges in accessing care.

“My journey into allergy medicine was deeply influenced by my personal experiences, particularly my mother’s late-in-life struggle with anaphylaxis and her diagnosis of chronic rhinitis. Witnessing her challenges in accessing care and obtaining a proper diagnosis ignited my passion for this field,” Mohammed, an allergist/immunologist at Comanche County Memorial Hospital in Oklahoma, told Healio. “I realized how crucial it is to provide support and education to those facing similar issues, especially in underserved communities where access to care and resources can be limited.”

In October, Healio announced Mohammed as a 2024 honoree of its peer-to-peer recognition program, Healio Honors.

Mohammed is one of 50 health care professionals across 23 specialties recognized by the Healio community for providing “the spark for elevating medicine, transforming health and igniting excellence through their daily practice,” according to a press release.

Healio spoke with Mohammed about her passion for helping patients in underserved communities, key advice for other women in the field and how other health care professionals can make a meaningful impact in the field.

Healio: What unique challenges do underserved communities face in allergy care?

Mohammed: My goal is to improve lives by advocating for better understanding and management of allergies, ensuring that everyone receives the care they deserve.

Patients in rural and underserved areas face various challenges in obtaining allergy care, including limited access to specialists, long wait times, exploding and untenable costs of care, lack of awareness of conditions specific to allergy/immunology, delay in diagnosing and delays in referring patients to specialists, and apprehension of being diagnosed.

Other typical barriers faced by this population include transportation issues, language barriers, lack of a social support system/safety net, precarious employment, mental health challenges and lack of reliable and adequate insurance coverage despite paying for insurance, thus leaving patients in a financial bind to decide between their health and other critical needs.

Healio: What influence do you hope to have on the future of allergy care?

Mohammed: I hope to influence the future of allergy care for patients by increasing education and awareness about allergies, management and the importance of early intervention; advocating for community engagement by partnering with local organizations, such as schools, to help raise awareness and provide resources tailored to the specific needs of patients with allergic conditions; lobbying and advocating policy change at local and national levels; and utilizing technology, including telehealth, to promote access to specialists.

Healio: What adversity have you faced as a woman in the field and how have you overcome those challenges?

Mohammed: I have faced barriers, including the expectation of fulfilling gender roles, navigating work-life balance as well as team dynamics and leadership roles, addressing gender bias, and networking expectations. I have overcome these challenges by advocating for myself and prioritizing my patients above all.

Healio: What key advice on work and life can you offer other women in the field?

Mohammed: As a physician who paves the way for future generations, my advice is to be an ally and actively support female colleagues while advocating for gender equality in the workplace. Challenge biases and promote inclusive practices within your team and organization, foster open communication with colleagues and patients by listening actively and valuing diverse perspectives to better collaboration and patient care. In addition, embrace emotional intelligence by cultivating empathy and emotional awareness. Seek mentorship and build networks with mentors who can provide guidance and insight into navigating the field to open up opportunities and enrich your career.

Balance professional and personal life by prioritizing time for family, hobbies and self-care to maintain overall well-being, and encourage diversity by advocating for diverse voices in the field, whether in hiring practices, research or leadership roles.

Healio: Where do you see your career in the next 5 to 10 years?

Mohammed: In the next few years, I hope to advance my career into leadership, advocacy, research and mentorship to make a meaningful impact in the field of allergy medicine and contribute to a healthier future for all patients.

Healio: How can heath care professionals in the allergy/immunology field improve outcomes for patients?

Mohammed: I would like to emphasize the importance of collaboration in the field of allergy medicine. Working alongside other health care professionals — specialists, primary care physicians and community organizations — will enhance patient care and ensure a more holistic approach to managing allergic and immunologic conditions.

Additionally, addressing social determinants of health is crucial for improving outcomes in underserved communities. By recognizing the broader context in which patients live, we can tailor our approaches and resources to better meet their needs.

There is also an imminent need to investigate and address the detrimental role that health care insurers play in refusing to pay for medically necessary care for patients.

Finally, fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability is essential. The field of allergy medicine is always evolving; staying informed about new research, treatments and patient care strategies will help us provide the best possible care.

Reference:

Honorees announced for third annual Healio Honors recognition program. Honorees announced for third annual Healio Honors recognition program. Published Oct. 7, 2024. Accessed Nov. 14, 2024.