Becker’s Healthcare Podcast Cástulo de la Rocha on Building AltaMed Health Services Corporation Around Access, Trust, and Community
Mar 21, 2026
Cástulo de la Rocha, President and CEO of AltaMed and leader of the nation’s largest community health center network, shares the story of growth from one clinic to 61 sites. He discusses financial stability as a health driver and value-based care. He explains culturally rooted strategies like hiring locally, language concordance, and long-term community presence to build trust and expand access.
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Origin Story Born From Clinic Lines
- Cástulo de la Rocha described watching long lines outside the East LA Barrio Free Clinic in 1977, which sparked the organization's mission.
- That scene led founders to prioritize dignity and access over growth, shaping AltaMed into a trusted community presence.
Personal Journey From Immigrant To CEO
- Cástulo recounted immigrating from Chihuahua, Mexico and finding his calling at the East LA Barrio Free Clinic in 1977.
- That clinic grew into AltaMed, now serving over 700,000 patients annually across Southern California.
Financial Stability Is A Health Intervention
- Financial instability is a root social determinant that blocks housing, food, and transportation and harms health.
- AltaMed uses sliding fee scales and open access to prevent medical debt and avoid unnecessary ED visits and admissions.