Health care hero: Hospitalist Jayaprakash Manda
Inspired to "be the change" in the world
We are shining a light on our #healthcareheroes. Meet Hospitalist Jayaprakash Manda, M.D.
What inspires you to be a caregiver?
My inherent compassion is to not just provide medical care for my patients, but also to educate them and others on how to control and prevent disease processes, hoping it will be shared throughout the community to help reduce the foreseen health care burden. I am a firm believer of “be the change you wish to see in the world,” attributed to the wisdom of Mahatma Gandhi.
How has your typical work day changed? What work are you doing or doing differently because of COVID -19?
It is not just a change in a typical work day, but a change in my everyday life. My normal work day was somewhat predictable before COVID-19. Now, most of my day is emotionally and physically draining, trying to care for patients, while at the same time staying safe and keeping my children safe. Instances where I have craved to play or caress my children were deeply saddening while trying to isolate. But on a more positive note, as a doctor, caring for COVID patients is incredibly rewarding and a great learning experience.
What is keeping you motivated during these uncertain times?
Seeing patients recover and get discharged to home healthy is building up hope in me and my fellow providers. I am especially motivated to not just treat but also to educate them on how to prevent highly communicable diseases such as this. I am also hopeful that the world’s COVID-19 pandemic experience will improve the community’s safety practices, and help prevent and fight future major contagious illnesses.
What advice do you have for your fellow caregivers?
Recognize that we have amazing leaders in ChristianaCare who are trying to keep us safe with up-to-date information to enable us to all be on the same page and care for patients and each other.
What advice do you have for our community?
You are all heroes for helping to save lives. Please continue to practice social distancing and hand-washing. Believe in science and scientists.
For local resources for your health and wellness, visit our coronavirus support page.