Health Equity and DEI

As a physician associate in psychiatry, Carlos Amaya is bridging gaps in mental health care for his patients by building language skills and more. Amaya also draws on his pharmacy background to improve medication access, and, as a preceptor, regularly introduces PA students to the field of psychiatry.

PAs of Color is the 2025 recipient of the Diversity Award. Also known as ThePAC, PAs of Color is a nonprofit organization serving as a pipeline to the PA profession for underrepresented in medicine (URiM) individuals, from pre-matriculation to PA professional practice.

Asha Byrd, PA-C, first saw the importance of building a rapport with patients through her volunteer work at medical facilities like the Northeastern Tribal Health System in Oklahoma. Now as a physician associate in primary care, she continues to prioritize connection—along with creating safe spaces and addressing barriers—when caring for undeserved patients at the holistic-minded Sacramento Native American Health Center.

In the aftermath of the tragic Los Angeles wildfires, volunteers like PA Lili Barajas jumped into action to aid in relief efforts. Barajas is no stranger to giving back and is dedicated to serving underserved communities and increasing representation in healthcare.

Lavette Shirley Elee is raising awareness about breast cancer and other women’s health topics through the Women’s Health and Resilience Foundation, an organization she founded with her two best friends to fill gaps in health literacy and improve patient outcomes, primarily for underserved populations.