In this week's episode, Cara is joined by Andrea Dalzell MSN-ed, RN, who shares her unique perspective as a nurse and frequent patient in the healthcare system. Andrea discusses her recent healthcare experience, highlighting the lack of coordination of care and its impact on her recovery. The conversation covers the importance of having a care network, the role of insurance, and the need for healthcare workers to have more time and mental capacity to address patients' emotional distress. They also explore how social media influences perceptions of the healthcare profession, the significance of compassionate care, and ways to address lingering distrust between healthcare providers and patients.
Andrea Dalzell is a prominent advocate for disability rights, known for her remarkable achievements despite facing mobility challenges since childhood. Currently serving as the Chief of Operations for Axis Initiatives in Harlem, NYC, she is also the founder of "The Seated Position," a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting students with disabilities in pursuing higher education in STEM fields. As "The Seated Nurse," Andrea is New York State's first and only registered nurse who uses a wheelchair, defying societal norms and advocating for inclusivity. Her tireless advocacy efforts have earned her national recognition, including being named "New Mobility's Person of the Year" in 2021, and she has been featured in publications like United Spinal Association, O Magazine, Forbes, and an Apple Watch commercial.
