A wellness center built on trust and understanding

Christal Crooks, MD, is the lead physician at Kaiser Permanente’s Center for Black Health and Wellness in Portland, Oregon.

She became a doctor after first training as a nurse in her home country of Trinidad and Tobago. Her mother’s nursing career and her love of science inspired her to keep learning and eventually go to medical school.

Dr. Crooks understands the health challenges many Black Americans face. These include higher rates of ongoing conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, lower screening rates for cancer and heart disease, and significantly higher maternal and infant mortality rates.

When she learned about the center and its mission, she knew it was the right place for her. She wanted to help patients access consistent, preventative care and improve long-term health outcomes in a setting that respects their individual needs.

Dr. Crooks shares more about her work and why the center matters.

Why is practicing at the Center for Black Health and Wellness important to you?

I’ve had many patients whose backgrounds I can relate to. I understand, culturally, where they’re coming from.

I’ve also had Black patients who didn’t trust me at first — simply because I’m a physician. But as they get to know me, they begin to trust.

Those are my most rewarding moments — when trust leads to better health outcomes. That’s the best feeling.

What are some of the barriers to health for Black communities?

Historical and ongoing gaps in care have contributed to lower screening rates and delayed treatment for many Black patients. Addressing those gaps requires consistent access to primary care, clear communication and evidence-based treatment — all of which are core to how we practice at the center.

Socioeconomic factors also play a role, making it harder for people to get or prioritize care. That often leads to untreated conditions becoming serious, long-term health problems.

What has been your experience with patients at the center?

I often see patients who’ve avoided preventive care like wellness checks and screenings. By the time they come in, their conditions are more advanced.

That’s one of the biggest benefits of the center. We’ve created a care  environment that encourages patients to seek preventative services and routine care earlier. That allows us to diagnose conditions sooner, manage them more effectively and reduce complications over time. 

And they’re excited to see Black nurses and doctors who represent their community.

I’ve even had young patients say, “I didn’t know I could be a doctor.” That’s incredibly rewarding.

The Center for Black Health and Wellness is open to all Kaiser Permanente members.