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 at 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 Masters 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. He is the CEO of QuickMed, a growing health care organization that operates urgent care and school-based clinics throughout Northeast Ohio. Lena is also a passionate advocate for advancing women in healthcare and bridging gaps in public health.
In this exclusive Q&A, Lena shares her unique insights into leadership, social impact, and the future of healthcare.
What inspired you to dedicate your career to addressing health inequalities in your city?
Growing up on the North Side of Youngstown, I saw firsthand how health disparities affect people in my community. I worked in many places on Belmont Avenue, and I saw the barriers that people faced when it came to getting basic medical care. 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 has in reducing inequality has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
QuickMed has grown rapidly in Northeast Ohio. What makes your healthcare model different?
QuickMed was founded on the idea that healthcare should be accessible, community-based, and tailored to the needs of the people we serve. We operate an advanced practice provider model, which means patients are cared for by highly skilled nurses and physician assistants. This approach allows us to bring quality care to areas that may not have it. Our clinics are ideally placed in schools and underserved communities because those are the areas where access is most needed. 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 training and leadership training. I have personally advised women to play a more progressive role in our organization, and I encourage them to accept their voices at the decision-making table. Women bring a unique perspective to healthcare leadership, which 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 gender bias, unequal pay, and limited representation in leadership roles. Women make up more than 70% of the healthcare workforce but hold only a fraction of senior leadership positions. Besides, work-life balance can be a significant obstacle, especially for women who carry family responsibilities. To overcome these challenges, we need to create flexible workplaces and purposefully inclusive leadership pipelines. Mentorship is also important. Women need access to experienced professionals who can guide and advocate for their growth.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start a health care program 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 gain trust—that’s the foundation of any successful initiative. And don’t be afraid to dream big but always focus on the reality of what can be achieved. Enthusiasm will get 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’s really important and let go of the rest. My family keeps me grounded—they are my greatest source of joy and inspiration. At work, I report 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 wellness, so I make time for basketball and quiet time with my family to reconnect. It’s about showing up fully in each role, even if it’s not all at once.
What is your vision for the future of health care in the Mahoning Valley and beyond?
My vision is simple: equal access to quality health care for everyone, regardless of where they live or their financial situation. I want QuickMed to continue to expand into underserved areas, ensuring that no one has to travel long distances to get the care they need. Beyond that, I hope to see more women in leadership roles, driving innovation and systemic change. Health care is not just about treating disease—it’s about building healthy, strong communities. That is the legacy I hope to leave behind.
