In Southern California, a Health Care Beacon

A rare combination of public and private, technology and human resources, the health care industry can prove a challenge for emerging ventures. Success depends on a variety of factors, such as funding, long-term strategy, specialized personnel, strong client relations, and—perhaps above all else—dexterous leadership. A bright symbol of all these aspects at work, AltaMed commands a venerable 40-year history in affordable health care for those facing economic hardship.

When President and CEO Castulo de la Rocha took the reins in 1977, AltaMed (then La Clinica Familiar del Barrio) served patients from one site and employed only three people. By the end of the year, de la Rocha had secured the clinic status as a Community Health Center, a milestone in growth. He continued to draft proposals and apply for funding, which resulted in the purchase of the Bella Vista Hospital, a contract to implement a Substance Abuse Program, and the receipt of a $1 million grant. AltaMed continued to expand with programs for seniors, those coping with tuberculosis, youths, and individuals diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. For his achievements at the head of the venture, Cástulo de la Rocha garnered the Gold Medallion for Public Health, the Los Angeles Business Journal’s Lifetime Achievement Award, and induction into the National Association of Health Centers’ Grassroots Hall of Fame. At present, AltaMed maintains 43 sites throughout Los Angeles and Orange counties, and performs more than 930,000 patient visits each year.