Elena Lazar
Elena Lazar is a certified community health worker and seasoned case management professional with over 25 years of experience in customer service, clinical administration, and healthcare services coordination. Based in Greater Boston, she currently covers multiple primary care medical offices, dedicating her days to helping patients improve their health outcomes. Elena works extensively on social determinants of health, addressing barriers related to food, housing, and transportation, and is actively involved in a hypertension program, where she educates patients on management, prevention, lifestyle changes, and provides essential tools like blood pressure cuffs and food assistance. Her work reflects a deep commitment to improving quality of life for all patients.
Prior to this role, Elena served as a bilingual case manager at Greater Lynn Senior Services, where she developed strong expertise supporting older adults and individuals with disabilities. She continues to work per diem with this population, emphasizing her passion for helping the 60-plus age group maintain independence and access vital resources. Elena takes pride in her achievements, from helping patients navigate eligibility challenges to ensuring successful applications for SNAP benefits, housing, and other essential programs. The gratitude expressed by patients she has supported stands as a testament to her meaningful impact.
Originally from the Republic of Moldova, Elena earned a master’s degree in history and education before moving to the United States 16 years ago. Since then, she has built a career in healthcare and community support, obtaining certification as a community health worker and continually enhancing her skills to stay current with evolving technologies and practices. Her career is defined by a dedication to learning, a compassionate approach to patient care, and a commitment to bridging gaps in healthcare and social services.
• Certified Community Health Worker
• Moldova State University - MA, History/Teacher/ Education
• Featured in 50-Year Anniversary Booklet as Best Case Manager
• Greater Lynn Senior Services Agency
• Community Health Workers Association
• Case Workers Association
• Per Diem Work with Greater Lynn Senior Services Agency
What do you attribute your success to?
I think it's just a good approach. If you like people, and you like what you do, and you like to learn new things, you'll be successful in any position. I mean, it's not like being successful big, like being a CEO or somewhere. You just be good at your work, you know?
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Never stop learning. I remember from my high school, my history teacher, she is actually why I went into history, which I love. She said just never, never stop thinking, analyzing, and reading, and learning something new. Never stop. It actually helps with dementia, I guess, too.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be yourself, and try to get new things. And discipline. Without discipline, I think nothing is possible. I think Tom Brady said if you don't have to have a huge talent, but if you're disciplined, you can accomplish something.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges are resources and staff shortage. Finding appropriate resources is difficult because there are not that many resources available for certain things, for certain requests. As for opportunities, I think they're always everywhere now, especially in healthcare, because people's approach is now different. We are more focused on health and fitness and nutrition. People are more knowledgeable now in different ways with the health industry, fitness, and physical therapy. More knowledge and more technology comes, so more opportunities open up.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
It's respect. Respect, and you just need to meet people where they are, you know, not expecting something from them that's extraordinary. You have to meet people where they're at, and yeah, respect, just respect. Respect your patients, and they will give you respect back.