Jaymee Shell2

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted almost every aspect of our lives, but its influence on healthcare is perhaps the most significant. As a physician and DEI advocate, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how the healthcare system has had to adapt, shift, and transform under extraordinary circumstances. Looking back, it’s clear that the pandemic not only revealed critical weaknesses but also presented us with unique opportunities to innovate and improve.
From the rapid rise of telemedicine to a renewed focus on mental health, I’ve seen these challenges push us toward changes we had long needed but didn’t anticipate coming so quickly. It’s been both a difficult and eye-opening journey, but one that has underscored the importance of evolving our healthcare systems with a strong focus on equity and resilience.
In this article, I want to reflect on the changes I’ve witnessed, how the pandemic has reshaped the way we approach healthcare, and what we must do to build a system that is not only prepared for the future but truly serves every community, especially those that have been historically underserved.