Building Bridges in Healthcare: The Story of Muhiyadin Aden

In the bustling corridors of Hennepin County Medical Center, a vital connection is made every day. Physician Assistant Muhiyadin Aden stands at the intersection of healthcare and community, forging relationships that transcend language barriers. His story is one of resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to serving his community.

Just last week, 80-year-old Mohamed Abdi found himself in the emergency department after a painful fall outside his Minneapolis home. “As I was walking, I just lost control,” he recounted in Somali. “The walker that I had in my hands ended up hitting me in the head.” In what could have been a traumatic experience, Muhiyadin stepped in, offering reassurance and clarity. Thanks to imaging results, he was able to share good news: there was no severe damage to Mohamed’s head.

Muhiyadin, affectionately known as “Mo” by his colleagues, has a remarkable journey that began long before he donned the white coat of a physician assistant. Originating from Somalia, he immigrated to the United States at the age of 17, enrolling in high school in Rochester. Driven by a desire to understand the complexities of society, he pursued a degree in political science at the University of Minnesota. However, through his journey, he discovered a deeper calling.

The Journey to Healthcare

When Muhiyadin took on the role of a nursing assistant at a nearby clinic, he began to recognize the gaps present in healthcare communication. His skills as a Somali interpreter became invaluable. “I thought it was a really cool job,” he reflected. “Patients were in need of interpreters, and providers relied on me.” This experience not only honed his communication skills but also sparked an insatiable desire to contribute more significantly to patient care.

After graduation, Muhiyadin’s career as an interpreter flourished at HCMC, where he eventually headed the interpreter services department, overseeing a team of 120 interpreters and a substantial budget. Yet, despite what may seem like a fulfilling position, he felt the constraints of his role. “Patients would ask me critical questions regarding their treatments, but I wasn’t allowed to provide medical advice,” he explained. This realization ignited a pivotal decision in his career—returning to school to become a physician assistant.

A Bridge to Trust

Muhiyadin furthered his education at Augsburg University’s physician assistant program, where he gained comprehensive skills in patient care. He learned to perform examinations, prescribe medications, and conduct lab tests, ultimately equipping him to handle complex medical situations. Two years later, he rejoined HCMC, this time armed with the skills and knowledge to bridge critical gaps in communication.

“Approximately 20% to 30% of our patients have limited English proficiency,” Muhiyadin noted. “Overcoming this barrier is undeniably challenging, but it’s essential to provide effective healthcare.” His commitment goes beyond mere language translation; he understands the cultural hesitancies surrounding Western medicine prevalent in Somali communities. A 2023 study highlighted ongoing distrust among Somali patients, often stemming from misinformation, such as the debunked vaccine-autism link.

The Power of Connection

During his time as an interpreter, Muhiyadin encountered numerous instances of skepticism. He recounted a memorable case involving a mother whose child needed urgent surgery after a bike accident. “She insisted on being with her son in the operating room,” he said, reflecting on the heart-wrenching moment. “Only when I explained the situation did she relent, but demanded that I accompany her son instead. It made me realize the level of trust I had built with her, and also sparked the thought: ‘Maybe I should be a provider myself to do more.’”

This experience exemplifies the profound connections Muhiyadin creates with his patients. In his current role, each interaction is a step towards demystifying the healthcare system for vulnerable populations. Back in the emergency department, as he asked Mohamed to take deep breaths while checking his lungs, there was a palpable sense of ease that enveloped the room. “As soon as I walk in, they smile. There’s a connection right away,” he said. “In medicine, making connections is paramount. A simple smile can ease the tension.”

Conclusion

Muhiyadin Aden’s journey, from an immigrant teenager navigating a new world to a compassionate healthcare provider, resonates deeply not just within the Somali community but also in the broader realm of healthcare. His life’s work transcends traditional medical practice; it’s about healing through understanding, trust, and connection—three vital components that can make all the difference in patient care.

As we reflect on the profound importance of empathy in healthcare, we are reminded that every patient encounter is not merely a clinical obligation but a shared human experience. What bridges can we build today to foster those connections tomorrow?