Pediatric nurse practitioner joins Redwood Medical Clinic

A pediatric specialist who speaks English and Spanish is caring for the community’s littlest patients at Adventist Health’s Redwood Medical Clinic in town.

Erica Baumker, a pediatric nurse practitioner who also practices in Ukiah, has a great story and a big heart for kids and caring for the community. She grew up in Perrysburg, Ohio and always dreamed of a job where she could help children. "As a child, I always looked forward to my check-ups with my favorite pediatrician, 'Dr. Tony,’” she says.

In college, Baumker explored careers in public health, medicine and even food science. But it wasn't until she worked as a researcher at a local children's hospital that she realized that becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner was the perfect fit - allowing her to combine her passions and skills in a way that would make an important impact on the health of children and her community.

And she loves every minute of it. "Working in pediatrics gives me the unique opportunity to make an impact on a person’s health starting from the very beginning,” Baumker says. “Each day I go into work knowing I will be surrounded with cute faces, smiles and laughter - how great is that? Caring for children also keeps me on my toes! They’re a bit unpredictable and incredibly resilient."

Baumker was attracted to Mendocino County’s community and beauty. "After visiting, I felt like I would be able to make a true impact here professionally and was enchanted by Mendocino County’s forests, vineyards and coast. Willits is now my home, Northern California is my playground and I am excited to continue exploring."

The Redwood Medical Clinic is located at 3 Marcela Drive, Suite C, in the Lamprich Center in front of Adventist Health Howard Memorial and at the intersection of East Hill Road and Haehl Creek Drive. Appointments may be made by calling 707-459-6115.