Empowering Women to Thrive
Dr. Margaret Lott recalls what first inspired her to follow a path in the medical field. “When I was three, I remember my cousin, who is a doctor, showed me one of his medical texts. Surprised by my interest and ability to read a few words in the book, he encouraged me to pursue a career in medicine.”
As she grew older, Dr. Lott witnessed many of her family members getting sick. She recounts a cousin who struggled with obesity. Her mother developed heart disease at an early age and had to undergo triple bypass surgery. She also had an uncle who experienced a leg amputation due to complications from diabetes. “I saw a lot of illness in my family, and it inspired me to pursue a career where I can help to heal people. It wanted to learn how to treat and prevent these conditions for my family and myself. That along with my love for science drew me in.”
Having attended the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and completing her residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Florida, Dr. Lott went on to work in various community clinics. After some time, she began toying with the idea of opening her own medical practice. “As COVID shifted things to a more virtual space, it sparked the idea of opening a telemedicine practice,” says Dr. Lott. Amandla Wellness Center is a traditional primary care practice through which patients receive care virtually. “We’re able to offer all the same benefits that patients receive in-person. We address general and acute health concerns—things like obesity, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol—especially among Black women. We provide annual wellness exams, order labs, and more,” shares Dr. Lott.
Taking it a step further, Amandla Wellness also provides education and counseling to help patients optimize their health through diet and lifestyle changes. This can be different than what is traditionally taught in the medical school setting, where the focus is to diagnose and treat. “When I was in school, there was little information on nutrition, physical activity and the importance of making lifestyle changes. Luckily, that’s changing now, due to the presence of lifestyle medicine.” Her decision to take a more holistic approach also stems from healthy lifestyle changes she has implemented for herself. “I also wasn’t doing what was needed for my health. I had to learn the importance of eating well, getting proper sleep, and physical activity. Especially considering my family history,” shares Dr. Lott. “I’ve been able to see the positive changes in my health and my family members who do the same.
Amandla Wellness Center follows a membership model commonly referred to as direct primary care. This innovative approach allows for patients to have more frequent and easier access to their doctor. Patients have monthly visits and appointments are 45 minutes long, leaving time for more questions and counseling. Those with chronic conditions can also find great benefits from this. “We provide our patients with close monitoring. Often, when you call a traditional medical office, you end up speaking with the nurse or front desk,” says Dr. Lott. “At Amandla Wellness Center you get direct access to the doctor.”
“We must also learn to be warriors for ourselves and our wellness. This way we can be there for the things that matter the most to us.”
Acknowledging the role that Black women often play within our families and communities, Dr. Lott chose a name for her practice that spoke to this dynamic. “Amandla means power or empowering in Swahili. She aims to empower Black women who are often warriors for everyone else, however, the society we live in is not always conducive to our health and well-being,” Dr. Lott reflects. “We must also learn to be warriors for ourselves and our wellness. This way we can be there for the things that matter the most to us.”
While Amandla Wellness Center only works with patients residing in Florida, interested individuals outside of the state still have ways to receive support. Their online community is for anyone seeking to be well. It includes a private Facebook group which provides exclusive content, support groups and health education. The Amandla Wellness Center YouTube channel also shares content regularly, helping to reach more people.
Moving forward, Dr. Lott wants to develop courses and programs that will help to further educate and improve health literacy. “Even if I can’t everyone directly, I still hope to somehow reach them.”
Stay connected with Amandla Wellness Center!
Email info@amandlawellnesscenter.com
YouTube @amandlawellnesscenter
Rashida A. Marshall, MS is the creator of AFIYA Magazine, a digital health and lifestyle publication for Black women. This creative venture grew out of her love for learning, teaching, and sharing valuable wellness information to help improve the quality of life. Rashida is also a Pilates and dance instructor specializing in women’s health.
