Center for Black Health and Wellness

Together, we’re working to close care gaps, improve health outcomes, and support healthier futures for our patients and communities.

Kaiser Permanente members of any race or ethnicity may choose to seek care at the Center for Black Health and Wellness or at any other location they choose.

Kaiser Permanente is committed to advancing health equity by delivering high quality, evidence based care that improves outcomes for all members. This includes eliminating health disparities, closing care gaps, partnering with communities, and addressing the specific health risks that affect different populations.

Research shows1 that Black Americans experience higher rates of chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, lower screening rates for cancer and heart disease, and significantly higher maternal and infant mortality rates. These differences highlight the need for proactive, preventive, and culturally informed care to support better health and longer life expectancy.

In response, we opened the Center for Black Health and Wellness at our East Interstate Medical Office in North Portland — a clinical care center focused on prevention, early detection, and chronic disease management. The Center’s goal is to close care gaps, improve measurable health outcomes, and support healthier futures for everyone we serve.

Meet your care team

Kaiser Permanente’s Center for Black Health and Wellness is led by a multidisciplinary team of clinicians experienced in preventive care, chronic disease management, and population health. The team delivers culturally informed care that reflects the specific health needs of our community. Our physicians, nurses, and care teams work together to provide coordinated, high-quality care for patients and families at every stage of life.

Explore each doctor's practice and choose the one who’s right for you.

Christal Crooks, MD | Family Medicine²

“I have always wanted to be a physician and was a nurse for many years prior to returning to school for my medical degree so I have been involved in many aspects of providing health care.”

Natalie Cazeau, MD | Family Medicine²

“I enjoy family medicine because it allows me to see everyone of all ages. As a family medicine physician, I have the opportunity to help others, and it is a great privilege to be a part of so many people's lives.”

Valerie P Rock, MD, MPH | Family Medicine2

"I take pride in modeling a care approach that is community-oriented, trauma-informed, and centers patient voice, equity, and respect for the historical and contemporary contexts that shape health outcomes."

Cancer screenings save lives

Colorectal cancer screenings are a proven way to detect cancer early and improve survival. While Black patients face higher risks and worse outcomes from colorectal cancer, regular screenings are important for everyone. Early and routine screenings — starting at age 45 — help detect cancer before symptoms appear and lead to better outcomes.

Learn more about the importance of lifesaving cancer screenings.

We’re here for your health

We are committed to providing accessible, equitable care, closing care gaps, and improving patient experiences. Learn more about our efforts to build healthier communities.