Every three years, Crawford County Memorial Hospital conducts a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), which helps identify gaps in care and coverage. It also helps determine how CCMH can work to improve on these conditions.
The most recent assessment involved working with a variety of focus groups from the community. From these meetings a consistent theme emerged — the need for a community liaison for our Spanish-speaking population.
To fill this new role, CCMH interviewed a number of highly qualified candidates. From these candidates, Maria Valdez was selected to fill the role of Community Liaison. Valdez recently joined the CCMH team, and her assignment is to bridge the gap between our local healthcare system and the Spanish-speaking community.
From Los Angeles to Rural Iowa
Valdez grew up in Los Angeles, California, a place she says is “very different than rural Iowa.” Yet, she has found a sense of home and purpose here.
“I see Iowa as a ‘land of opportunities’, a place where my kids can thrive, and I can contribute to the community in a meaningful way.”
Valdez’ background is in social work. It’s a field she feels she’s been a part of her entire life.
“Growing up in a family that primarily spoke Spanish, I often found myself helping family members and even strangers navigate daily life. I feel this early experience, combined with my formal education—a bachelor’s degree in social work from Briarcliff University—has prepared me perfectly for my new role.”
The Power of Connection
Valdez says being a community liaison isn’t about marketing or sales. It’s about building and maintaining relationships and trust.
“While interpreters are great in many instances, it’s not the same as having a person there who is actually helping you, who speaks your language, understands your culture. I believe my ability to connect with people on a personal and cultural level will be the key to any success we experience.”
Valdez plans to achieve this by being an active and visible member of the community.
“I’ll be attending events like the Immigrant Heritage Festival and engaging with people directly to gather their feedback and understand their needs. My goal is to create a two-way conversation, ensuring that the community feels heard and valued.”
Navigating a Complex System
One of the biggest challenges Valdez sees is the complexity of the American healthcare system.
“For individuals coming from different countries and cultures, it can be extremely difficult to navigate health care. I see my role as demystifying this system, helping people understand everything from where to go for care to how insurance and billing work.”
“When visiting with community members, my job is to figure out what is wrong, and then to try to reach a resolution. I’m committed to collaborating with different departments across CCMH, from marketing to clinical to human resources, to find solutions and make the healthcare experience as smooth as possible for the Spanish-speaking community.”
Opportunity to Make an Impact
Valdez acknowledges her position is like a clean slate.
“This is a brand new opportunity to build something truly special. I don’t view this only as a job, but as a calling, one that requires a special kind of heart and intellect to work across language and cultural barriers. I’m confident that my passion and dedication will bring immense satisfaction, joy, and success to the patients we serve.”
This new role is a testament to CCMH’s commitment to the community. It’s an investment in a shared future where all work together to achieve better health outcomes. CCMH is incredibly excited to see the work Maria will do, and we encourage you to join us in welcoming her to the CCMH family.
