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Somos Banner Health Series: Dr. Andrew Valenzuela, Sleep Medicine Banner Medical Group

"It feels incredibly rewarding to speak the language of our patients and understand their cultural background"

PHOENIX, AZ- (October 6, 2023)- Dr. Andrew Valenzuela comes from a diverse background with a blend of Hispanic and American cultures. Born in Houston, Texas, from a Dominican father and a Mexican mother, Dr. Valenzuela has had the privilege of being raised with the best of both worlds.

He credits his parents for the valuable lessons they taught him and for teaching him Spanish as his first language ensuring he grew up with the traditions, exquisite cuisine and vibrant music of both Mexico and the Dominican Republic.

Recently, Dr. Valenzuela returned to Punta Cana at the Dominican Republic to celebrate his grandmother's 100th birthday celebration. This experience further reinforced his appreciation for his culture.

Working at Banner Health has provided Dr. Valenzuela with an exceptional opportunity to experience the power of diversity in healthcare. "The team at the clinic is phenomenal," he exclaims. "There is such a blend of backgrounds, and the resulting culture is rich and diverse."

As a bilingual physician, he recognizes the advantages that fluency in multiple languages brings to his medical practice. Speaking Spanish enables him to connect with his patients and family members who may speak another language. Building this trust and understanding is crucial to delivering effective and compassionate care.

"It feels incredibly rewarding to speak the language of our patients and understand their cultural background," says Dr. Valenzuela. "Being bilingual brings a unique advantage in providing personalized care and fosters a deeper connection with patients and their families."

Banner Health is one of the largest, secular nonprofit health care systems in the country. In addition to 33 hospitals, Banner also has an academic division, Banner – University Medicine, and a partnership with one of the world’s leading cancer programs, Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. Banner’s array of services includes a health-insurance division, employed physician groups, outpatient surgery centers, urgent care locations, home care and hospice services, retail pharmacies, stand-alone imaging centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation, behavioral health services, a research division and a nursing registry. To make health care easier, 100% of Banner-employed doctors are available for virtual visits, and Banner operates a free 24/7 nurse line for health questions or concerns. Patients may also reserve spots at Banner Urgent Care locations and can book appointments online with many Banner-employed doctors. Headquartered in Arizona, Banner Health also has locations in California, Colorado, Nebraska, Nevada and Wyoming. For more information, visit bannerhealth.com.

Banner Desert Medical Center Banner Health

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