Lena Esmail is a trailblazer 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, working in nearly every business on Belmont Avenue 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 in Nursing from Ursuline College, a post-master’s certificate 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 in-school clinics throughout Northeast Ohio. Lena is also a passionate advocate for empowering women in healthcare and bridging gaps in community health.
In this exclusive Q&A, Lena shares her unique insights into leadership, community impact, and the future of healthcare.
What inspired you to dedicate your career to addressing healthcare inequities in your hometown?
Growing up on the North Side of Youngstown, I witnessed firsthand how healthcare disparities impacted people in my community. I worked at so many places on Belmont Avenue, and I saw the barriers people faced when it came to accessing basic medical services. I knew that 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 is having on reducing inequities has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
QuickMed has grown rapidly across Northeast Ohio. What sets your healthcare model apart?
QuickMed was founded on the idea that healthcare should be accessible, community-based, and tailored to the needs of the people we serve. We use an advanced practice provider model, meaning patients are cared for by highly skilled nurse practitioners and physician assistants. This approach allows us to deliver quality care in areas that might not otherwise have it. Our clinics are strategically located in schools and underserved communities because those are the places 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?
Empowering women starts with recognizing their potential and creating pathways for their success. At QuickMed, we prioritize mentorship and leadership training. I’ve personally mentored women to take on more advanced roles within our organization, and I 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 over 70% of the healthcare workforce but hold only a fraction of senior leadership positions. Beyond that, work-life balance can be a significant obstacle, especially for women who also shoulder family responsibilities. To overcome these challenges, we need to create more flexible work environments and leadership pipelines that are intentionally inclusive. Mentorship is crucial too. Women need access to seasoned professionals who can guide them and advocate for their growth.
What advice would you give to someone looking to start a healthcare initiative in their community?
Start by 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. Build relationships and earn trust—that’s the foundation of any successful initiative. And don’t be afraid to dream big but remain grounded in the reality of what’s achievable. Passion will take you far, but perseverance will ensure you make a lasting impact.
How do you balance your roles as a CEO, a nurse, and a 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 truly matters and let go of the rest. My family keeps me grounded—they’re 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 for basketball and quiet moments with my family to recharge. It’s about showing up fully in each role, even if it’s not all at the same time.
What is your vision for the future of healthcare in the Mahoning Valley and beyond?
My vision is simple: equitable access to quality healthcare for everyone, regardless of where they live or their financial situation. I want QuickMed to continue expanding into underserved areas, ensuring that no one has to travel far for the care they need. Beyond that, I hope to see more women in leadership roles, driving innovation and systemic change. Healthcare isn’t just about treating illnesses—it’s about building healthier, stronger communities. That’s the legacy I hope to leave behind.
Read more:
Empowering Communities Through Healthcare: A Conversation with Lena Esmail of Youngstown, Ohio
