Providence Queen of the Valley delivers bicultural care
Part of what makes Napa Valley a special place is the diversity of its residents. Napa’s citizens span economic and ethnic groups, including a sizeable Latino population. Napa has a rich Hispanic history, and today, 41 percent of Napa’s population is Hispanic or Latino. As part of its commitment to be steadfast in serving all, Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center actively supports bilingual and bicultural health care initiatives.
“Latinos are a significant portion of our population in Napa County with a strong presence and a strong voice,” said Dr. Amy Herold, chief administrative officer and chief medical officer at Providence Queen of the Valley.
In 2024, 55% of all babies born at the Queen are of Hispanic, Latino or Spanish origin and the hospital offers perinatal classes in Spanish to support parents. In fact, approximately 68 percent of the hospital’s community health caregivers, who provide outreach, care and support, are bilingual/bicultural which helps break down barriers.
“Our staff is part of the community and aware of the differences in culture, food and religion,” said Salvador Nunez, social work supervisor for Queen of the Valley’s CARE Network, which provides case management, advocacy, resource and referral, and education. “It helps the barriers come down, and the comfort level goes up whenever we go to someone’s home.”
The CARE Network’s team of nurses, social workers, community health workers, mental health therapists and spiritual caregivers meet people where they need care, whether in their home, at a shelter or living out of their car. Bilingual care is also a priority inside the hospital.
“For those coming into the emergency department with behavioral health needs, we offer licensed clinical social workers and community health workers who are bicultural/bilingual,” Silva said.
Queen of the Valley also participates actively in community events sponsored by the Napa County Hispanic Community, including Binational Health Fair and Dia de la Familia.
“One thing Queen of the Valley does really well is partner with nonprofits,” said Alonso Corona, executive director of the Napa County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (NCHCC). “By working with the Community Leaders Coalition, Puertas Abiertas and CommuniCare+OLE (formerly OLE Health), Providence is filling in the gaps where they are most needed with trusted resources.”
As a mission-driven organization, Queen of the Valley has a special focus on those who are most vulnerable and knows that immigrants, undocumented or not, face unique challenges. Providence’s medical facilities are places of healing where everyone can expect to be treated with compassion and respect.
“We see health care as a fundamental human right, not a privilege,” said Dr. Herold. “We serve members of our communities without regard to legal or socioeconomic status, and believe that everyone deserves quality health care.”
Providence devotes millions of dollars in community benefit each year to make sustainable improvements in the health of our diverse communities throughout Northern California.
To learn more visit providence.org/community
About Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center
The largest health care facility and one of the largest employers in Napa County, Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center is a nonprofit 208-bed acute care facility located in the city of Napa. Queen of the Valley is dedicated to bringing Napa Valley residents the best care possible, close to home.
