Lina Ismail is a pioneer in healthcare leadership, dedicated to creating equity and accessibility in medical services. Born and raised in Youngstown, Ohio, Lena grew up on the city’s north side and worked at almost every business on Belmont Street during her formative years.
She graduated from Liberty High School in 2004 and pursued higher education locally, earning baccalaureates in nursing and biology from Youngstown State University (YSU). Her advanced degrees include a master’s degree in nursing from Ursuline College, a post-master’s degree in critical care from YSU, and a doctorate in nursing practice from Kent State University. She is the CEO of QuickMed, a growing healthcare organization that operates urgent care and school-based clinics throughout Northeast Ohio. Lena is also a passionate advocate for empowering women in healthcare and closing gaps in community health.
In this exclusive Q&A, Lena shares her unique insights on leadership, societal impact, and the future of healthcare.
What inspired you to dedicate your career to addressing health care inequities in your hometown?
Growing up on the north side of Youngstown, I saw first-hand how health care disparities affected people in my community. I’ve worked in many places on Belmont Street, and I’ve seen the barriers people face when it comes to accessing basic medical services. I knew if I wanted to make a difference, I had to start right here in the Mahoning Valley. For me, it’s personal, my heart is here. Seeing the positive impact QuickMed has had on reducing inequality has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
QuickMed has grown rapidly across Northeast Ohio. What distinguishes your healthcare model?
QuickMed was founded on the idea that health care should be accessible, community-based and tailored to the needs of the people we serve. We use an advanced practice provider model, which means patients are cared for by highly skilled nurse practitioners and physician assistants. This approach allows us to provide quality care in areas where such care may not otherwise be available. Our clinics are strategically located in schools and underserved communities because these are where access is needed most. It’s not just about treating illness, it’s about creating trust and lasting relationships with the people we serve.
As a leader, how do you empower women in healthcare?
Women’s empowerment begins with recognizing their potential and creating paths to their success. At QuickMed, we prioritize mentorship and leadership training. I have personally mentored women to take on more advanced roles within our organization, and encourage them to embrace their voices at the decision-making table. Women bring a unique perspective to healthcare leadership, one that is compassionate, collaborative, and solutions-oriented. By fostering a culture of support and continuous learning, we ensure that women in our organization feel confident to lead and innovate.
What challenges do you think women face most in healthcare, and how can they overcome them?
The biggest challenges are systemic gender bias, unequal pay, and limited representation in leadership roles. Women make up more than 70% of the healthcare workforce, but they hold only a small portion of senior leadership positions. Furthermore, work-life balance can be a major hurdle, especially for women who also have family responsibilities. To overcome these challenges, we need to create more flexible work environments and intentionally inclusive lines of leadership. Mentorship is also crucial. Women need access to experienced professionals who can mentor them and advocate for their growth.
What advice would you give to someone looking to start a healthcare initiative in their community?
Start listening. The best way to create meaningful change is to understand the specific needs of the community you want to serve. What works in one area may not work in another. Building relationships and gaining trust is the foundation of any successful initiative. Don’t be afraid to dream big but stay grounded in the reality of what is achievable. Passion will take you far, but persistence will ensure you make a lasting impact.
How do you balance your roles as CEO, nurse, and mother of six?
Balance is a daily practice, and I won’t pretend it’s always easy. But I’ve learned to focus on what really matters and let go of the rest. My family keeps me grounded and is my greatest source of joy and inspiration. At work, I delegate to a strong team that shares my vision for QuickMed. I also prioritize self-care. As a nurse, I understand the importance of health and well-being, so I make time to play basketball and quiet moments with my family to recharge my batteries. It’s about showing up fully in every role, even if not all at the same time.
What is your vision for the future of health care in the Mahoning Valley and beyond?
My vision is simple: equitable access to quality health care for everyone, regardless of where they live or their financial situation. I want QuickMed to continue expanding into underserved areas, ensuring no one has to travel far to get the care they need. Furthermore, I hope to see more women in leadership roles, driving innovation and systemic change. Healthcare is not just about treating diseases, it is about building healthier and stronger communities. This is the legacy I hope to leave behind.
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