Mission Statement

The goal of VHP’s Health Education Department is to promote health and enhance member’s lives through support, prevention, and education.

Meet the Team

Deborah, MPH Program Manager

Profile coming soon. 

Karen, BS Health Education Specialist 

 Karen joined the Health Education team in 2023. She earned her Bachelor’s degree (BS) in Health Science from San Jose State University. After completing her degree, she began working at Bosch Healthcare Inc., focusing on Healthcare Management programs and medical devices. While there, she led a team of clinical program developers who provided clinical support to clients.  

A few years later, Karen transitioned to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, working at the Palo Alto, Monterey, and San Jose clinics. She served as a Health Coach in this role, teaching Whole Health holistic wellness programs to veterans and their families. At Kaiser Permanente San Jose, Karen collaborated closely with the Medical Weight Management Program, helping members achieve their weight loss goals.  

Karen joined Valley Health Plan in 2021, where she worked in Case Management. Karen played key roles in projects such as implementing Essette and Epic for medical management. Her passion for community health is evident in her work, as she shares her dedication with her team and empowers members to approach their health proactively. Karen enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors, and pursuing photography outside of work. 

Alvaro, MPH Health Education Specialist 

Alvaro was born and raised in Guatemala City. For 20 years, he provided disease prevention services and promoted health and equity at Community-Based Organizations and four Public Health Departments: Contra Costa, San Francisco, Alameda, and Santa Clara counties.    

In his capacity as educator and administrator, he worked with people from different backgrounds, socioeconomic statuses, and sexual orientations in a variety of settings, including community clinics, hospitals, educational institutions, drug treatment facilities, homes, detention facilities, and streets.   

Alvaro holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Humanities, with an emphasis on Activism and Social Change, and a Master’s in Public Health in Community Health Education. 

MyLinh, BS, Health Education Specialist  

With over 12 years of experience at Valley Health Plan, MyLinh Pham is passionate about empowering communities through health education. She coordinates chronic disease prevention programs, including diabetes education, asthma services, and nutrition initiatives. MyLinh also supports campaigns for breast cancer awareness and tobacco cessation, focusing on making health education accessible to diverse communities. 

As an immigrant, MyLinh brings a culturally informed approach to her work, making health education accessible and meaningful for diverse communities. Her commitment stems from a deep understanding of community needs and a belief in the transformative power of education.  

Beyond her role at Valley Health Plan, MyLinh leads a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization addressing homelessness and advocating for social equity and diversity. She is also a media personality, producing and hosting Viet TV & Radio program.  In her free time, she enjoys backyard gardening, where cultivating tropical fruit trees is a therapeutic that connects her with nature. 

Selina, Health Education Specialist

Selina is a Health Education Specialist in the Health Education Department at Valley Health Plan (VHP), where she has worked for 17 years. For the past 7 years, she has focused on the Health Education Department, where she has deepened her understanding of various health topics, particularly tobacco cessation and fitness programs. Selina finds her role rewarding because the team helps VHP members, and the community lead healthier lives. The Health Education Department at VHP enhances individuals' overall health by providing education on a range of health topics, offering preventive measures, and providing support as needed.  

Selina is eager to continue expanding her knowledge and assisting people in their journey to better health. Outside of work, she enjoys going to the gym, taking drives by the ocean, and spending time with friends and family, especially her partner and her furry companion, Otis.