We understand that many people in our community are concerned about the potential health impacts of the Feb. 1 fire at Martinez Refining Company (MRC). Contra Costa Health (CCH) has been actively monitoring the situation, and our health officer Dr. Ori Tzvieli recently addressed key questions in a video update.

The fire burned hazardous materials, and CCH's air quality measurements showed toxic chemicals were in the air during the event.

However, readings from our Hazardous Materials team showed that most chemical levels remained below dangerous thresholds. Favorable wind conditions also helped disperse the smoke, minimizing prolonged exposure for nearby residents.

For more details, view our infographic here.

Following a distinguished 32-year career of service, Contra Costa Health Chief Executive Officer and Health Director Anna M. Roth has announced her intention to retire from the county.

A steadfast champion for health and addressing the needs of underserved communities, Ms. Roth will serve as president and CEO of Tahoe Forest Health System (TFHS) beginning in March.

Ms. Roth began working for Merithew Hospital in Martinez, now Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC), as a registered nurse in 1993, assuming greater responsibilities until she was named CCRMC Chief Executive Officer in 2009. Her success operating CCRMC and its 11 community clinics led to her appointment in 2018 as county health director.

“Anna Roth has been a transformative leader for Contra Costa Health (CCH), and while we will deeply miss her visionary leadership, we are thrilled to see her take on this exciting opportunity,” said Contra Costa Board of Supervisors Chair Candace Andersen, who represents District 2. “Her tireless commitment to improving healthcare for Contra Costa’s residents, especially our most vulnerable populations, has made a lasting impact. Tahoe Forest Health System is fortunate to gain such an exceptional leader.”

As the county’s health director, Ms. Roth managed a staff of more than 4,400. During her tenure at CCH, she oversaw the growth of a $3 billion integrated health system serving more than 1 million residents. Under her guidance, the County expanded safety-net services, strengthened behavioral and physical health integration, and launched innovative programs to address homelessness, environmental health, and emergency medical services.

“I’ve worked with Anna Roth for 25 years and have seen her commitment to improving access to quality medical care for our County’s most vulnerable residents and her passion for closing the health equity gap that has impacted our African American and Latino residents,” said District 1 Supervisor John Gioia, who chairs the Health Services Joint Conference Committee. “She introduced landmark new programs to meet the evolving needs of our most health-challenged community members, resulting in improved health outcomes. Because of her dedication and talents, our county has been recognized nationally for the many innovative and lifesaving programs that were pioneered under her leadership.”

Ms. Roth was instrumental in leading CCRMC to achieve high-quality standards while maintaining a strong focus on equity and access. CCH implemented its electronic health record on her watch and expanded access to healthcare to thousands of county residents through the Affordable Care Act. She also led Contra Costa County’s emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in one of the lowest COVID-19 mortality rates in the U.S. among similar-sized counties.

“I loved my time with Contra Costa Health. I am excited about my next chapter, but I am going to miss working with so many amazing people, caring for the health of our community,” Ms. Roth said. “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Contra Costa County and honored to continue my service with Tahoe Forest Health District.”

The Board of Supervisors will discuss the next steps for leadership of CCH at its next meeting.

We’re thrilled to share that the incredible work of CCH’s Health, Housing, and Homeless Services (H3) team was recently featured in DCHS’s PATH newsletter.

The article highlights how H3, with the support of Providing Access and Transforming Health (PATH) funding, supports people experiencing homelessness by providing vital services.

H3 shared an inspiring success story about helping a resident find stable housing after years of homelessness.

This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and impact of our H3 team. Thank you for making a difference in our communities every day.

Read the newsletter here.

Amid recent changes and concerns about federal immigration policies, Contra Costa County wants to reassure you about our unwavering commitment to all members of our community, regardless of immigration status.

Our Approach:

1. No Discrimination: Contra Costa County does not single out individuals based on their race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, or immigration status.
2. Privacy Protection: We do not collect or share information about your immigration status unless required by state or federal law or a court order. Safeguarding your personal information is one of our most important priorities.
3. Access to Services: Everyone in our community should be able to access essential services, including healthcare. Recent federal actions will not affect how the County provides these services.

We recognize that fear and uncertainty can prevent people from seeking County programs and services, but we want to assure you that our services are here for you. You have the right to feel safe and secure in your community, and our longstanding policies are designed to uphold your safety and trust.

Contra Costa County stands united in creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where everyone has the support they need to thrive. We encourage you to reach out for assistance without hesitation, knowing that our commitment to serving and protecting all residents is steadfast.

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El Condado de Contra Costa Responde a las Recientes Órdenes Ejecutivas

En medio de los cambios recientes y las preocupaciones sobre las políticas federales de inmigración, el Condado de Contra Costa quiere asegurarle nuestro compromiso inquebrantable con todos los miembros de nuestra comunidad, independientemente de su estatus migratorio.

Nuestro Enfoque:

1. No discriminación: El Condado de Contra Costa no señala a las personas en función de su raza, etnia, origen nacional, religión, género o identidad de género, orientación sexual o estado migratorio.
2. Protección de la privacidad: No recopilamos ni compartimos información sobre su estado migratorio a menos que lo exija la ley estatal o federal o una orden judicial. Salvaguardar su información personal es una de nuestras prioridades más importantes.
3. Acceso a los servicios: Todos los miembros de nuestra comunidad deberían poder acceder a los servicios esenciales, incluida la atención médica. Las acciones federales recientes no afectarán la forma en que el Condado proporciona estos servicios.

Reconocemos que el miedo y la incertidumbre pueden impedir que las personas busquen programas y servicios del Condado, pero queremos asegurarle que nuestros servicios están aquí para usted. Usted tiene derecho a sentirse seguro y protegido en su comunidad, y nuestras políticas de larga data están diseñadas para mantener su seguridad y confianza.

El Condado de Contra Costa se mantiene unido en la creación de un ambiente acogedor e inclusivo donde todos tienen el apoyo que necesitan para prosperar. Lo alentamos a que busque ayuda sin dudarlo, sabiendo que nuestro compromiso de servir y proteger a todos los residentes es firme.

Anna Roth, CEO and Executive Director of Contra Costa Health, will be leaving her post for a new role with Tahoe Forest Health System. The date of her departure has not yet been finalized.

Anna continues to lead CCH. The Board of Supervisors has not yet assigned interim leadership or announced a plan for hiring a future director.

We will update staff as more information becomes available.

Contra Costa Health (CCH), in partnership with the Community Warning System (CWS), is improving how it keeps residents informed about hazardous materials incidents in Contra Costa County.

Starting Jan. 15, 2025, the CWS will enable anyone to sign up to receive community awareness text messages about Level 1 incidents at industrial facilities regulated by Contra Costa County, including the county’s four oil refineries.

Level 1 alerts include non-emergency events such as minor hazardous materials releases, refinery flaring lasting over 20 minutes, visible plumes or noticeable odors that are not expected to have off-site health impacts.

These alerts will notify residents that they may hear, smell or see signs related to the event – however, no action is required.

Previously, text alerts were only sent for more serious Level 2 and Level 3 incidents, which will continue.

“Timely communication is critical when it comes to hazardous materials incidents,” said Nicole Heath, Director of CCH’S Hazardous Materials Program. “By introducing Level 1 community awareness messages, we’re giving residents an additional layer of information to stay aware and prepared.”

Residents must opt-in to receive these notifications by texting CCHEALTH to 21423. When signing up, it is also important to sign up for emergency messages through the CWS.

The CWS, a partnership between CCH and the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, provides alerts about potential health hazards, emergencies, and safety concerns through phone, text and email.

Notifications of all alert levels will be posted on CCH’s website.

CCH encourages all residents to take advantage of this service to stay informed of HazMat notifications that could affect their communities.

Find more information on our website.

Contra Costa Health staff and external partners joined Detention Health's Open House on January 15. This was an opportunity to showcase Detention Health efforts addressing patient care, meet and greet with Detention Health leadership and administration and share the new the Detention Health Administration office.

October-December 2024

Recognizing Contra Costa Health staff for going the extra mile. To nominate a CCH employee for a Service Excellence award, please visit the nomination page on our website.

Katrine Agsunod, RN
Kayla Gepulle, RN
Elisonguo Lyimo, RN
Shiela Mallare, RN
Elleni Wondimagegnehu, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers

For being excellent, professional nurses, taking great care of me, spending extra time with me and having epic bedside manners.
-Nominated by a Client

Debra Allen
Community Health Worker Specialist
Public Health

For going above and beyond to assist an unhoused client who was supposed to be receiving benefits from another center. For assertively communicating with the center to get him the benefits he was owed and an address for him to receive them. For researching Section 8 housing, securing a home for him and helping him navigate the rules and learn the skills required to be a successful resident for over one year.
-Anonymous Nomination

Alfredo Bague
Institutional Service Worker-Generalist
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers

For having the best attitude and work ethic no matter what you ask of him. For always completing a job to perfection and in a timely manner. For all he does for the 4C/4D staff, we are grateful to have him on our team.
-Nominated by DeAnn Bologna

Juliana Bitar
Administrative Services Assistant III
Personnel

For always going above and beyond to assist our team at Safety Services. For helping us reach our goals and gather information. For her positive attitude, flexibility and graciousness when it comes to teaching or explaining anything to our team.
-Nominated by Camille DeRivera Salonga

Stephanie Bodisco
Care Coordinator
Health, Housing and Homeless Services

For consistently going above and beyond for every client, showing unwavering passion and care in everything she does. For her dedication that truly sets her apart.
-Nominated by Kyanna Matthews

Janice Browne
Mental Health Clinical Specialist
Behavioral Health

For being an honorable care manager for older adults, performing over and above her expectations to support the linkage of care to her clients suffering from mental health symptoms. For improving the lives of many of those she has remained consistent with just by her presence and persistence in care.
-Nominated by Shennen Pugh

Marcela Cardenas
Clerk-Senior Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers

For going the extra mile with kindness and patience to assist a coworker with their questions and concerns. For going above and beyond the call to provide the highest level of support possible to the families of patients she works with. For being dependable and hard-working.
-Nominated by Sandra Nunez

Fern Carroll
Contracts and Grants Specialist II
Finance

For her outstanding contributions to Contra Costa Health’s Information Technology Division. For consistently going above and beyond in her role as a Contracts and Grants Specialist by working tirelessly to support the preparation of contract documents, ensuring accuracy and compliance, and bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience that has been invaluable to the success of our projects. For demonstrating true teamwork by always being available to assist, no matter the complexity of the situation. For showing dedication, professionalism and being a pleasure to work with.
-Nominated by Carina Tuen

John Conduracki
Timekeeping Supervisor
Personnel

For going above and beyond in our Payroll Department. For being friendly and knowledgeable with resources for the department, always with kindness, patience and willingness to jump in and assist with difficult issues ensuring they are resolved promptly. For being a great role model.
-Nominated by Kelly Prado

William Cooper
Mental Health Clinical Specialist
Behavioral Health

For his collaboration with Alcohol and Other Drugs Services (AODS), ensuring that our most vulnerable clients with co-occurring disorders get the support, care, and services that they deserve. For, working tirelessly and collaboratively with Discovery House staff on behalf of a client. For providing inclusive and cohesive treatment, communicating quickly and effectively with staff to ensure that the client’s needs were met..
-Nominated by Fatima Matal Sol

Eskinder Daba, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers

For always going the extra mile for his patients and providing high quality, patient-centered service with respect and responsiveness. For inspiring his team to work with compassion and sympathy to the vulnerable population we serve and for being available to assist everyone in and out of the unit.
-Nominated by Fikir Melese

Irene De Rivera, PHN
Public Health

For always being helpful and ready to lend support whenever needed.
-Nominated by Brenda Moore-Hanson

Carrie Del Bonta
Clerical Supervisor
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers

For consistently demonstrating exceptional support to all staff members by being resourceful and lending a hand when the department is in need. For actively resolving challenging issues in a timely manner, making her a valuable and reliable asset to the department.
-Nominated by Silvia Zapien-Barajas

Alejandra Escobedo-Sochet
Mental Health Family Services Coordinator
Behavioral Health

For always going above and beyond to serve the families she’s connected with. For being a strong advocate for the families she serves and being knowledgeable about the mental health system of care.
-Anonymous Nomination

Christian Garcia
Therapist Aid
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Center

For being a wonderful addition to the Martinez Detention Facility Medical Unit. For always being willing to help whether we have difficulty troubleshooting the printer, need help moving patient equipment or assisting with group activities for the patients. For being an excellent colleague, team player and hard worker.
-Nominated by Maria Skalett

Sheila Gomez
Community Health Worker
Public Health

For being an incredibly knowledgeable and talented team member. For her invaluable expertise, always willing to share her insights and resources to help coworkers succeed. For one of her greatest strengths - the ability to offer timely and relevant solutions, especially in challenging situations. For always being willing to assist, whether it’s about free baby clothes, furniture or food, with a “happy to be of help” attitude.
-Nominated by Dhama Balan

Consuella Kester
Mental Health Clinical Specialist
Behavioral Health

For going above and beyond in serving clients at the board and cares.
Anonymous Nomination

April Loveland
Mental Health Specialist II
Behavioral Health

For being a reliable team lead for the Office for Peer & Family Empowerment and coordinating the Social Inclusion Committee for our office. For collaborating with our community partners to bring together our peers to learn something new, and have fun and positive social interactions in the different cities of our county. For assisting in writing policies that will improve our Community Support Workers professional future. For being amazing!
-Nominated by Alejandra Escobedo-Sochet

Bryan Narcisse
Specialist II
Environmental Health

For going above and beyond to foster a supportive environment for restaurant owners as they navigate the plan review process and prepare to open their business. For helping them through scary moments, managing what needs to be done and supporting them in a timely manner. For being willing to provide information that alleviates client concerns and underscores our crucial role in their success.
-Nominated by Roberto Rodriguez

Nadia Navarro
Medical Social Worker II
Public Health

For being a blessing during one of the darkest times in my life, when everything seemed uncertain, providing support and resources that made a huge difference. For her consistent check-ins and monthly guidance as my case manager through the Enhanced Care Management (ECM) program, helping me stay accountable as I navigated the challenges of being justice-impacted. For treating me with kindness, compassion and respect, addressing both my personal and professional needs. For her words of encouragement giving me the strength and optimism to move forward in life, feeling ready to face my new reality with hope for a better future. For everything she and ECM have done, I share my heartfelt gratitude.
-Nominated by a Client

Okechukwu Nwadigo
Medical Social Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers

For consistently going above and beyond as a social worker for our hospitalized patients, especially to ensure them safe discharges. For always being kind, positive, helpful and efficient and for never showing the strain and frustration this work can be.
-Nominated by Inanna Carter

Tamara Praus, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers

For being so helpful and attentive to a patient and her family’s needs while she was in labor. For explaining each procedure in detail before performing any task. For connecting with the client and family during such a life changing event making a huge impact on their experience. For her compassion and three days of care, we appreciate her.
-Nominated by a Client’s Sister

Sherry Ramos Resurreccion
Homeless Services Specialist
Public Health

For always being an advocate for our clients, going above and beyond in helping them with housing needs as well as anything else she can assist with and for having a wealth of knowledge to share with our clients. For being an asset to our Enhanced Care Management team.
-Nominated by Vanessa Lam

Lorena Salcedo-Alvarado
Medical Staff Coordinator
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers

For being an amazing team member of the Residency Program. For always being hard working and taking pride in her work. For managing giving extra time to ensure resident scheduling was taken care of while she was on jury duty for a lengthy time. For being flexible, a superhuman and an honor to work with.
-Nominated by Joann Valencia

Lee Schugar
Information Systems Specialist
Public Health

For being a dedicated employee who goes above and beyond in countless ways to help troubleshoot many IT-related problems at the hospital. For recently demonstrating innovation and initiative by fabricating call light covers with a 3D printer, saving the hospital thousands of dollars. For being a valued member of our support staff.
-Nominated by Ronny Leffel

Lisa Thomas
Outreach Coordinator
Health, Housing and Homeless Services

For being an asset to Health, Housing and Homeless Services (H3). For being a true definition of what it means to be a team player, going above and beyond to support every area within H3 from her own CORE Program to anything needed at the administration office. For constantly building relationships in the community with local businesses and law enforcement agencies to destigmatize homelessness and offer CORE services wherever needed. For being a strong advocate for the people we serve, constantly thinking outside of the box and reimagining what’s possible to deliver support and services with compassion and empathy.
-Nominated by Kimberly O’Bryan

Lisa Thomas
Outreach Coordinator
Health, Housing and Homeless Services

For serving the unhoused population through H3/Shelter/CORE Programs for over 13 years and being an integral part of our expansion. For her unrelenting work ethic, discipline, resourcefulness and leadership in allowing H3 to expand from one CORE team in 2016 to our current number of 22 CORE teams throughout the county. For her outstanding level of dedication and for establishing a vast network of resources and partners serving the most vulnerable in our community of Contra Costa County.
-Nominated by Fadi Elhayek

Tommy Tighe
Mental Health Program Chief
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers

For being kind to all the Medical Social Services staff and lifting our morale by giving us praise and support. For going above and beyond in all that he does and for his healing words and actions.
-Nominated by Sue Meltzer

Rikky Torres
Mental Health Specialist II
Behavioral Health

For his kindness and support to participants in the housing program, enhancing their recovery process and their trust in our services.
-Nominated by Alejandra Escobedo-Sochet

Tina Vanwolbeck, PHN
Public Health

For being a wealth of knowledge regarding the Public Health Nurse role. For always being very supportive, advocating for her patients and assisting coworkers. For being a dedicated team player.
-Nominated by Brenda Moore-Hanson

Chipo Washington
Clerk-Senior Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers

For going above and beyond for all our patients. For ensuring that the needs of patients and providers are met.
-Nominated by Kyaw Lin

Daisha Williams
Contract Employee
Health, Housing and Homeless Services

For always going the extra mile to assist every individual.
-Nominated by Mariah Davis

Recognizing our staff for their years of dedicated service.

• December 2024
• November 2024
• October 2024

For previous months, visit the Team Recognition section of our website.