Big congratulations to Paloma Mendez on receiving the Firestarter Award!

Paloma is the kind of teammate who is always ready to jump in and help however she can. Her knowledge and dedication as a coder make a huge impact, but what truly stands out is the way she supports those around her. Whether she’s helping answer questions, finding solutions, or guiding coworkers in the right direction, she always shows up with a positive attitude and a willingness to help.

Her hard work, teamwork, and commitment to excellence do not go unnoticed, and CBHA is lucky to have her on the team.

Congratulations, Paloma, and thank you for everything you do for CBHA! 👏

Learn more about Paloma:

When did you start at CBHA?

I started at CBHA on May 12, 2008

What is your job title and day-to-day responsibilities?

I currently work as a Coder, where I review patient charts to ensure services are coded accurately based on documentation and insurance guidelines. My day includes auditing batches to prevent duplicate billing, assisting with patient pricing questions, supporting providers and nursing staff with chart corrections, and helping coworkers when questions come up. I also focus on maintaining high coding accuracy and productivity while helping keep billing denials low.

What is your favorite thing about working at CBHA?

My favorite thing about working for CBHA is knowing that I am part of an organization that is always striving to support and improve the communities we serve, while also encouraging employees to grow and develop within the company.

How has CBHA helped you grow in your career?

CBHA has played a huge role in my career growth by investing in my development as a coder. They provided and paid for my coding classes, certification exam, and ICD-10 boot camp training. Those opportunities helped me grow professionally and showed me how much CBHA values and supports its employees.

What has been your favorite project at work so far?

One of my favorite projects was helping with the annual fee schedule updates and creating a self-pay payment form for coding and Patient Service Representatives. It was rewarding to help improve pricing accuracy, support staff, and make payment information clearer for patients.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

I would choose the ability to speak all languages because it would allow me to assist anyone more effectively. In the clinic setting, I could help as an in-person interpreter instead of relying on iPads or phone services. I believe many patients feel more comfortable and at ease when they can communicate face-to-face with someone who understands them, which can improve both their experience and overall care.

How do you turn a bad day into a good one?

I keep a quote on my coder notebook that says, “CTRL + ALT + DEL — Control myself, Alter my thinking, and Delete negativity.” It’s a simple reminder to stay focused, maintain a positive mindset, and approach challenges with clarity each day.

What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid?

I wanted to be a Landscape architect.

Where is your favorite place to travel?

My favorite place to travel is the Oregon coast. There’s something about being at the beach sitting in the sand and listening to the waves that I find very calming and relaxing.

If you could be any Disney Character which one would you be?

I would be Fairy Godmother (Cinderella). This way I can make wishes come true especially when someone is feeling down.

Anyone you would like to thank or final words?

I would like to thank Zelene, for nominating me and for always being an awesome coworker to work with. I would also like to thank my supervisor Josh for his encouraging words.