Perry County healthcare provider named to national nurse practitioners committee

Perry County nurse practitioner Lashandra Walter Davis has been appointed to a national leadership role with the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

Davis, who serves as a nurse practitioner at Cahaba Medical Care in Marion, said she was notified recently of her selection to the AANP Health Equity Committee for the 2026–2027 term. The committee works to advance health equity, reduce healthcare disparities and strengthen patient‑centered care in communities that often face barriers to consistent medical access.

“This appointment is an honor,” Davis said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to represent my community and the healthcare profession in this national role.”

A native of the Black Belt and a practitioner who has spent her career serving rural and underserved populations, Davis said the committee’s mission aligns closely with the needs she sees every day in Dallas, Perry, Hale, Marengo and surrounding counties. She said her goal is to bring the experiences of Black Belt residents directly into national discussions about equity, access and outcomes.

Alongside her committee work, Davis plans to expand local outreach efforts. She said she will host health education sessions and resource events throughout the region to help improve health literacy, connect residents with available services, and increase awareness of preventive care options. She also expects to participate in policy discussions at both the local and state levels, focusing on ways to strengthen rural healthcare systems and reduce longstanding disparities.

“My passion has always been serving the people of the Black Belt,” Davis said. “This role gives me another avenue to advocate for better access and better outcomes for the communities I care about.”