New department focuses on preventive care, improved referrals, and stronger patient support.
November 12, 2026 – MARIPOSA, CA – John C. Fremont Healthcare District (JCFHD) is strengthening its commitment to preventive care and improving the patient experience with the development of its new Population Health Department. The District is pleased to announce the promotion of longtime employee Kati Baca, BSN, RN, to Clinic Quality and Population Health RN Manager and the appointment of Maura Laffranchi as its first Population Health Care Coordinator.
The department will focus on helping patients manage chronic conditions, stay current on preventive screenings, navigate referrals, and overcome barriers to receiving care. It will also play an important role in improving internal workflows and coordination between departments. "We recognize that some of our processes, particularly referrals and care coordination, have not always met our patients' expectations," said Stacey Kuzak, MBA, MSN, RN, Chief Executive Officer of JCFHD.
"We have work to do, and this new department is an important step toward making meaningful improvements. Our goal is to make healthcare easier to navigate and ensure patients receive the support they deserve."
Pictured above Kati Baca, RN on the left and Maura Laffranchi on the right.
Kati Baca: 16 Years of Dedication
Baca began her career at JCF in 2010 as a laboratory phlebotomist. Over the years, she continued her education, became a Licensed Vocational Nurse, earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and became a Registered Nurse. She transitioned into the District's Quality RN role in 2025 before her recent promotion.
In her new position, Baca oversees population health, clinic quality improvement, referrals, and clinic informatics, while developing the District's Community Health Worker program.
"JCF has been part of my life for 16 years, and this community is where I'm raising my family. That makes this work personal," Baca shared. "The people we serve are our neighbors, friends, and loved ones, and I want them to have access to care that helps them feel supported and understood."
Maura Laffranchi: Supporting Patients Beyond the Exam Room
Laffranchi has worked in healthcare since 2016, with extensive experience supporting oncology, infusion, and radiation patients. As JCF's first Population Health Care Coordinator, she will focus on patient outreach, including diabetes management, preventive screenings, missed appointments, and referrals delayed by insurance or other barriers. "I wanted to move beyond just supporting patients in crisis," Laffranchi explained. "I saw the gaps in care and knew I wanted to help close them, so people have support in their community long before they face suffering."
Building a Better Patient Experience
JCFHD recognizes that referral delays and communication challenges have been frustrating for patients. The new department will help identify inefficiencies, strengthen referral tracking, improve coordination, ensure patient safety and develop more consistent processes for patient follow-up.
While these improvements will take time, the District is committed to addressing concerns, measuring progress, and creating a more coordinated healthcare experience for the community.
About John C. Fremont Healthcare District
John C. Fremont Healthcare District has served Mariposa County since 1951, providing essential healthcare services to residents and visitors throughout the region. The district remains committed to strengthening access to quality healthcare close to home.
Source & photo: John C. Fremont Healthcare District