José Lastra
Digital Health Navigator and Outreach Coordinator, Digital Health Equity (DHE)
José Lastra is the Digital Health Navigator and Outreach Coordinator for the Digital Health Equity Project in the Center for Reducing Health Disparities. In his previous role as a Community Engagement Project Coordinator with the MOVE IT UP2 Project, José was responsible for helping to oversee the development and implementation of Latino community-focused testing clinics in over 5 counties. With many years of experience in the field, José has developed a deep understanding of the challenges that many Latinos face when it comes to accessing healthcare. José was committed to ensuring that the projects goals were community-focused, effective, and met the needs of the community.
José began his career at UC Davis as a community health outreach supervisor with the Healthy Davis Together Project. He helped to launch the mobile testing and vaccine clinics during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic which included, testing programs in local schools, vaccine operations, and bringing testing to area day shelters, migrant camps, and senior living homes. José was able to accomplish such big tasks by partnering with community leaders and community-based organizations in and around Yolo and Sacramento County.
José is a first-generation Latino who comes from a migrant farm worker family. Having experienced healthcare disparities first-hand made him become passionate about improving healthcare access for Latinos particularly in farm working communities. José is dedicated to continuing to be a strong advocate for the Latino community and making a positive impact on the lives of those most in need. José says, “I am grateful to play an integral role in the Center for Reducing Health Disparities’ collaborative, innovative response in keeping the community safe.” He is fluent in both English and Spanish. José loves to travel, try new foods, and spend time with his family. His greatest inspirations are his parents José and Patricia. José says the person he is now and hurdles he has overcome in life, is all thanks to his parents.
