LOS ANGELES, Sept. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — TIME named AltaMed Health Services President and CEO Cástulo de la Rocha to the 2026 TIME Latino Leaders list recognizing 13 U.S.-based trailblazers changing their industries and communities.
The recognition reflects de la Rocha’s nearly five decades of leadership at AltaMed and his commitment to expanding access to quality, culturally responsive health care for communities throughout Southern California.
AltaMed began in 1969 as the East Los Angeles Barrio Free Clinic, created to address the health care needs of a largely Latino community that faced significant barriers to care. Today, AltaMed is one of the nation’s largest community health organizations, demonstrating the impact that trusted, community-rooted institutions can have on health, opportunity, and the well-being of generations of families.
“Being recognized by TIME is an incredible honor, but this recognition belongs to the generations of patients, employees, caregivers, community leaders, and families who have built AltaMed over the past 57 years,” said Cástulo de la Rocha, president and CEO of AltaMed Health Services. “Our story shows what is possible when we invest in our communities and build institutions that understand, respect, and reflect the people they serve. I am proud of how far we have come, but our work is not finished. We will continue opening doors, creating opportunities, and ensuring the next generation has access to the care and resources they need to thrive.”
For nearly five decades, de la Rocha has helped advance AltaMed’s mission through a model of care rooted in trust, cultural understanding, and representation. Under his leadership, AltaMed has expanded its reach while remaining focused on the communities and families it was created to serve.
Over the past year, that commitment has remained especially important as AltaMed and its communities navigated wildfires, economic uncertainty, changes in the health care landscape, and growing concerns among immigrant families. Throughout these challenges, AltaMed remained focused on ensuring patients could continue accessing the care and services they need. TIME’s Latino Leaders recognition highlights leaders whose work and influence are helping shape the future of the United States. De la Rocha’s selection recognizes a career dedicated to advancing health care access and strengthening the communities AltaMed serves.
The full list and related tributes appear in the September 28, 2026 issue of TIME, available on newsstands Friday, September 18.and now at ti.me/latinoleaders.
About AltaMed
AltaMed understands that when people receive care that considers their individual health needs and respects their cultural preferences, they grow healthy—and help their families do the same. Since 1969, we have delivered complete medical services to communities across Southern California. Our team of qualified multicultural and bilingual professionals—from these same communities—is focused on eliminating barriers to primary care services, senior care programs, and essential community services. According to 2025 data, AltaMed operates more than 60 accredited health centers and service facilities and remains committed and ready to help you grow healthy at any age. For more information, visit www.altamed.org.
Media Contacts
AltaMed
Christina Sanchez
chsanchez@AltaMed.org
Actum for AltaMed
Sarah Arvizo
altamed@actumllc.com
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SOURCE AltaMed Health Services
