Catalyst in Women’s Healthcare
As a mark of pride for her small town roots in India, Dr. Khushali Trivedi has not only emerged as a leading Physical Therapist in women’s healthcare in the US, but also established Vedikh Care, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to ending period poverty and promoting healthcare equality around the world.
In her own words, “As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of my humble beginnings which played an important role in shaping who I am today. I hope that my story can inspire others who may also come from similar backgrounds, and show them that anything is possible with hard work and determination.”
Coming from a small town Kadi in Gujarat, where avenues of opportunities were limited, Khushali’s parents worked tirelessly to provide her with opportunities to create a difference, while her elder brother ensured that she had everything she needed to be an independent woman.
Her passion for women’s health started early on in life when she saw firsthand the struggles that women face when it comes to accessing basic healthcare. It led her to pursue a Doctorate in Physical Therapy where she focused her research on topics such as pelvic pain, postpartum depression and postpartum lumbopelvic pain. As a Researcher, she was able to contribute to the body of knowledge on these important topics and provide evidence-based treatment options for her patients.
As she pursued an education and career in physical therapy, Khushali became increasingly aware of the many gaps in care for women. One of the biggest challenges she faced is the ongoing struggle for healthcare equality. Despite the progress that has been made in recent years, there are still countless women who lack access to basic healthcare and suffer needlessly as a result. There are many systemic issues that prevent them from accessing the care they need, including financial barriers, social stigmas, and cultural biases.
“Today my passion is fueled by the knowledge that there is still so much work to be done. I am committed to doing everything I can to promote change and create a better future for women’s health.”
To further her goal, Khushali co-founded Vedikh Care in January 2022. She believes that every woman should have access to basic healthcare including menstrual hygiene products, and works tirelessly to end period poverty and promote healthcare equality. The organization provides education and resources to women in need, as well as advocacy efforts to promote policy changes that will benefit women’s health. They have been fortunate to work with many inspiring individuals and organizations who share their vision, and are proud of the impact they have made so far.
“I co-founded Vedikh Care with my husband whose passion for providing holistic and affordable healthcare solutions has inspired me to work towards our shared goal. He has been my rock throughout my personal and professional journey, providing unwavering support and encouragement. The support I received from my family is something that I wish every girl around the globe could have. My ultimate desire is to see a world where women are empowered, supported, and able to live their lives to the fullest.”
It is some such women who inspire Khushali towards her dreams. “My biggest inspiration has been the countless women I have had the privilege of working with throughout my career. These women have faced incredible challenges and obstacles, but they have also shown incredible strength, resilience and determination. They have inspired me to push harder, to fight for change, and to never give up in the pursuit of a better world for female health.”
Khushali’s unwavering dedication has seen bestowed with innumerous honours:
2022: Write to Change the World award, Texas Woman’s University, USA.
2023: Student Research Presentation award, Texas Woman’s University, USA.
2023: Identified as an exemplary Scholar, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, USA.
2023: Research work presentation, American Physical Therapy Association Conference, USA.
Additionally, she has served as a committee member for the American Physical Therapy Association Pelvic Health Academy, Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee, and has reviewed articles/manuscripts for the Journal of Women’s & Pelvic Health Physical Therapy and Cureus Journal of Medical Science. She has also been invited to present her research at various professional conferences.
“One of the most important lessons I have learned is the value of collaboration and community. I am constantly inspired by the individuals I work with, who share my vision of creating a world where women have access to the healthcare they need and deserve. By working together towards a common goal, we can achieve great things and make a lasting impact.”