At Alopex, we understand that access to quality healthcare is vital for fostering stronger, healthier communities. This Black History Month, we honor and celebrate the invaluable contributions of our team members who exemplify the legacy of resilience, service, and progress in healthcare. Their efforts are instrumental in bridging gaps in care and advancing health equity.
Today, we are proud to spotlight Shaakira Shabazz, LPN, one of our dedicated Care Coordinators. Through her compassionate work, Shaakira ensures that patients receive the necessary support to manage chronic conditions, access preventative care, and enhance their overall well-being. Her commitment aligns with our mission to make healthcare more accessible, equitable, and centered on the needs of our patients.
When asked what Black History Month means to her, Shaakira reflected:
“I’ve been a Licensed Practical Nurse for seven years, and throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of caring for patients from all walks of life. I’m passionate about providing compassionate, high-quality care and continuously learning to enhance my skills.?
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My role as a care coordinator at Alopex Care is multifaceted and crucial in ensuring patients receive the appropriate and timely care they need. As a care coordinator I am the central figure in patients’ healthcare journey. I work to improve patient outcomes by managing treatment plans, educating patients and facilitating transitions between care settings.?
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In the field of medicine, numerous Black American pioneers have made groundbreaking contributions. Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler, as the first Black American woman doctor in the United States, is a huge inspiration to me. As the first Black American woman to earn a medical degree in the United States, she shattered barriers, demonstrating that dedication and skill transcend societal limitations. Her unwavering dedication to providing care to underserved populations, particularly after the civil war, highlights the core values of nursing: compassion and advocacy.??
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I believe that diversity in healthcare is essential for improving patient outcomes, reducing health disparities, and fostering an inclusive environment for both patients and providers. Black History month, to me, is a necessary and vital period of reflection. It’s a time to actively seek out and amplify the stories of Black individuals and recognizing their profound impact on the world. It’s not just about acknowledging past injustices, but also about understanding how those injustices continue to shape our present. Ultimately, Black History Month is a celebration of resilience, a testament to the enduring strength and creativity of Black culture, and an opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to a more just and equitable future.”
Thank you Shaakira for all that you do for your patients and for Alopex!??