Editor’s note: September is Women in Medicine Month, and all month we’re highlighting female physicians and advanced practice providers throughout our healthcare system. The following Q&A is with LaShana Wilder, a PA with RSF Express Care on James Island.
What inspired you to get into medicine?
My inspiration to enter medicine stems from a deep-rooted desire to serve and uplift my community. The example set by my maternal grandmother Mary Julia Wallace, who was the driving force behind my journey into medicine. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the impact of how empathy and compassion would heal individuals and their families.
Although my grandmother was not a medical doctor, her specialty was humanity. She helped to serve our family and her community with faith, compassion and in excellence every day. She set the standard for all of us to do the same. That was one of the many things she taught me.
When I decided to move forward to earn my Doctorate Degree in Medical Science from the University of Lynchburg, and PA Degree from the Medical University of South Carolina, I would always remember her encouragement and how her teachings over the years reflected her example of how she lived her life – being devoted to service. I chose medicine as my path for that.
As I gained more experience in life, I realized that our community deserved better. Everyone, regardless of where they came from, what they looked like, or what side of the tracks they were born on, all deserved to have access to and receive quality healthcare as right, not as a privilege. That continues to fuel me to learn more and become a source of support and healing for those who often feel overlooked or underserved. This passion for making a difference in people’s lives, especially within marginalized communities, drove me to pursue a career in medicine. It’s a field where I can combine my love for science with my commitment to advocacy and social justice.
What makes the inclusion of women in medicine important?
The inclusion of women in medicine is crucial for a number of reasons. Women bring diverse perspectives and experiences that enrich the practice of medicine. Our unique insights into patient care, communication and empathy contribute to more holistic and effective healthcare solutions. Moreover, representation matters; when women see themselves reflected in the medical profession, it encourages them to pursue careers in the field, thereby diversifying and strengthening the healthcare workforce. Women in medicine also play a vital role in advocating for issues that disproportionately affect female patients, ensuring that our healthcare system is more equitable and responsive to all.
Is there a woman in medicine who has inspired you along the way?
Women have been invaluable to medicine for decades. There is no way I could name them all, but there are a couple of women that come to mind. One woman who has profoundly inspired me is Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler, the first African American woman to earn a medical degree in the United States. Her courage, perseverance and dedication to serving marginalized communities during a time when both her race and gender posed significant barriers have been incredibly motivating. Dr. Crumpler’s legacy reminds me that the path may not always be easy, but it’s one worth pursuing if it means making a difference in the lives of others.
The second woman that comes to mind was my paternal grandmother Albertha Wilder. She was the community “medicine woman.” Let me tell you, if you had a problem, she knew how to fix it. She would travel with her “medicine bag” equipped and ready to help anyone who was in need of help – no matter what the problem was, she had a solution. If you were hungry or needed something for a common cold, she was ready, equipped and prepared to help. I have always been inspired by trailblazers. Women who were not afraid of the challenges ahead. If there’s a problem, they would not wait for anyone else to fix it, they’d create the solutions. I aspire to continue to foster that in my own career.
In your role, how do you empower other women (colleagues, patients, friends, family)?
In my role, I empower other women by fostering an environment of support, encouragement and shared learning. For my colleagues, I advocate for professional development opportunities, mentorship and work-life balance. Many of them will attest to that. I believe in elevating together. I make it a priority to mentor younger women in the field, providing guidance and resources to help them succeed. I push them and encourage them when things get tough. The reality is that things will get tough, but finishing what you started is always the end goal. For my patients, I focus on education and empowerment, ensuring they have the knowledge and confidence to take charge of their health. In my personal life, I encourage the women around me—friends and family alike—to pursue their passions, embrace their strengths and support one another in achieving our collective goals. I feel like it is a necessity to live by those principles.
What’s a fun fact about yourself?
A fun fact about me is that I love being creative. I’m always on the lookout for me to be able to throw a little pizzazz onto something. If it is singing my favorite songs, experimenting with bold fashion choices, designing or styling clothing or exploring new culinary choices, I am all about having a creative space to not be too serious and have fun. I believe being creative isn’t just an outlet, but it is a way to stay inspired, energized, connected, and enjoy how limitless life can be. In medicine, I also like finding innovative ways to approach patient care and problem solving. I am an avid learner. Show me how to gain a new skill, specifically in medicine, I am there. I am always open to learn something new and get my hands dirty.
