Meet Reyana Kaji: Bridging Gaps in Health Care

A global journey shapes a future physician's mission 

Over the next four years, we will follow members of the inaugural class of The Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine. These students, each with their unique backgrounds, aspirations and perspectives, are not just pursuing their dreams of becoming physicians — they're helping to shape the future of medical education at Belmont University.  

From their first days of classes to their experiences in clinical rotations, we'll follow their triumphs, challenges and growth as they blaze the trail for future generations of Belmont-educated doctors. Their stories offer a window into the exciting world of medical education and the innovative approach of Belmont's newest college. 

In the inaugural class of Belmont University's Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine, Reyana Kaji stands out as a student whose global perspective and passion for community health are shaping her journey in medicine. Her story is one of cultural diversity, academic dedication and a commitment to addressing health care disparities. 

A Journey Across Continents 

Born in Virginia and raised in the rural town of Hagerstown, Maryland, Kaji's understanding of health care challenges took a significant turn when her family relocated to Bangladesh for three years during her adolescence. This experience provided her with a unique lens through which to view global health disparities. 

"Witnessing the health care landscape in Bangladesh was eye-opening," she said. "The high prevalence of preventable diseases like pneumonia, tuberculosis and dengue fever highlighted the critical need for accessible medical care. Losing a cousin to dengue, a disease with a typically low fatality rate when proper care is available, deeply impacted my perspective on health care accessibility." 

Connecting Global and Local Health Challenges 

Upon returning to her rural hometown in Maryland, Kaji recognized parallels between the health challenges she observed abroad and those facing her local community. "I realized that bringing quality health care to underserved areas isn't just a global issue – it's happening right in our own communities," she explained. "Rural areas in the United States often face disproportionately high rates of chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension, partly due to limited access to health care resources." 

This realization became a driving force in her decision to pursue medicine, with a focus on addressing health care disparities in rural and underserved areas. 

The Path to Belmont

Kaji's undergraduate years in Baltimore further solidified her commitment to community health. "Working with diverse communities in Baltimore allowed me to see the impact of culturally competent health care," she said. "It reinforced my desire to become a physician who can effectively serve and represent marginalized populations." 

Choosing Belmont for her medical education was a decision aligned with her values and goals. "The mission of treating the whole person deeply resonates with me," she explained. "Throughout my experiences, I've seen how crucial it is to look beyond immediate symptoms and consider all aspects of a patient's life – social, mental, physical and even spiritual. That's the kind of comprehensive care I aspire to provide." 

The collaborative environment has been a pleasant surprise for Kaji. "The level of support and encouragement from faculty, professors and fellow students is remarkable," she notes. "It truly feels like we're building a family here, united in our commitment to advancing medical education and patient care." 

Balancing Academia and Personal Growth 

While medical school demands rigorous study, Kaji emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle. An avid runner, she often explores Nashville's scenic trails, finding it an effective way to stay healthy and familiarize herself with her new home. 

In a lighthearted pursuit that showcases her adventurous spirit, Kaji has taken on a personal mission to discover Nashville's best spicy chicken. "It's become a fun way to explore the city's culinary scene and take short breaks from studying," she said. "Who knows? Maybe I'll compile my findings into a guide for future students." 

Looking Ahead: A Vision for Community Health 

As she progresses through her medical education, Kaji is drawn to primary care as a potential specialty. "The opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients and be a consistent part of their health journey is appealing," she said. "Moreover, I see primary care as a crucial means of bringing essential health services to underserved communities." 

Kaji’s commitment to addressing health care needs in rural and underserved communities has not gone unnoticed. She is a recipient of the Dr. Thomas F. Frist, Sr. Rural Physician Innovation Scholarship, a recognition that aligns perfectly with her aspirations and the mission of the Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine. "This scholarship is more than financial support," she said. "It's a vote of confidence in my vision and a reminder of the impact I hope to make in rural health care." 

Her ultimate goal extends beyond individual patient care. Kaji aspires to make a significant impact on rural and marginalized communities, with a particular focus on Tennessee. "The sense of community in Tennessee is palpable," she noted. "I'm eager to contribute to improving health care access and outcomes in rural areas of the state." 

Embracing the Journey 

As she embarks on her four-year journey, Kaji approaches the challenges ahead with enthusiasm and determination. "Medical school is as much about personal growth as it is about academic achievement. I'm excited to see how this experience will shape me not just as a future physician, but as an advocate for community health and health care equity." 

For those considering a similar path, Kaji offers this advice: "Embrace every experience that broadens your perspective on health care. Whether it's volunteering in your local community or seeking opportunities abroad, these experiences will inform and enrich your approach to medicine. And remember, the path to becoming a physician is as much about understanding people as it is about understanding science."