Episode 3: Personhood, Power & Public Health

What does it mean to see someone—not just treat them?

In this episode of Route Notes, Dr. Shaunesse’ Jacobs Plaisimond joins Dr. Wesley Rich and Dr. David Tillman for a powerful conversation on person-centered care, maternal health, and how systems often fail to honor the full humanity of the people they serve. Drawing from her work in religion, ethics, and human rights, Dr. Plaisimond shares why personhood is not a soft concept—it’s the foundation of ethical health practice.

From the legacy of exploitation in medicine to the promise of reimagining public health through story, spirituality, and justice, this episode is a moving call to see patients as people, not problems.

Healthcare isn’t just about outcomes—it’s about dignity.