For many veterans, the transition from military service to civilian life can be filled with challenges—especially when it comes to accessing quality health care. On a recent episode of the “At the Edge of It All” podcast, Sheree Scott, a Navy veteran and now Director for Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Programs at the University of San Diego, shared how her journey from corpsman to academic has shaped her mission to improve health care access for underserved groups, particularly women and fellow veterans. Her story sheds light on the critical intersection of military experience, health care, and education—an intersection that continues to influence both policy and personal lives.

Scott’s background as a Navy corpsman gave her first-hand insight into the unique physical and emotional needs of service members. That experience, she explained, was instrumental in shaping her understanding of the systemic gaps in care that many veterans face. After her military service, Scott transitioned into academia, where she found new ways to advocate for those often overlooked by traditional health care systems. In her role at USD, she now works to train and support future clinical nurse specialists who can help close these gaps.

One of the podcast’s most compelling themes was Scott’s focus on improving access to care for women veterans. As she pointed out, women in the military often face distinct challenges, both during service and afterward. From gender-specific health issues to a lack of representation in veteran-focused programs, these disparities can result in inadequate care. Scott’s work aims to address these inequities by ensuring that future health care providers are not only aware of these issues but are also equipped to respond to them effectively.

I found this detail striking: Scott’s commitment to advocacy didn’t end with her military service. Instead, it evolved. Her transition into higher education allowed her to influence the next generation of nurses and health care professionals. This role gives her a platform to highlight the importance of inclusive, culturally competent care—something that is especially vital for marginalized communities. Her efforts underscore how veterans can continue to serve in powerful ways long after they leave active duty.

The podcast also touched on Scott’s broader commitment to health equity. While veterans remain a central focus, her work also extends to other vulnerable populations. As Director of USD’s CNS programs, she helps shape curriculum and training that emphasizes not just clinical excellence but also compassion and accessibility. This dual focus prepares students to meet patients where they are, both literally and figuratively, and to advocate for systemic improvements in health care delivery.

Scott’s story is a reminder of how individual experiences can lead to institutional change. Her journey from Navy corpsman to academic leader is not just inspiring; it also illustrates the ripple effects of mentorship and education. By investing in future health care providers, Scott is helping to build a more inclusive and responsive system—one that recognizes the diverse needs of its patients and works actively to meet them.

Veteran health care access, inclusive nursing education, and women veterans’ health are not just policy buzzwords. They are real, urgent matters that affect the lives of millions. Scott’s work brings these issues into focus in a way that is both practical and deeply human. Her role at the University of San Diego places her at the nexus of research, education, and advocacy, allowing her to amplify voices that are too often unheard.

The “At the Edge of It All” podcast episode featuring Scott offers a meaningful look into how one person’s dedication can influence broader systemic change. It also highlights the importance of programs like USD’s CNS initiative, which aim to train health care professionals who are not only technically skilled but also socially aware. In a time when health care systems are being reevaluated and reimagined, stories like Scott’s serve as important case studies in what it means to lead with purpose and empathy.

As Scott continues her work at USD, her impact is likely to be felt not just by the students she mentors, but by the countless patients those students will go on to serve. Her journey is a testament to the power of lived experience in shaping more equitable, compassionate care systems. For anyone interested in how military service, health care, and higher education can intersect to drive meaningful change, this podcast episode is well worth a listen.

Read more at sandiego.edu