Marx De La Rosa: Leadership with Empathy

When you meet Marx Louie De La Rosa, the Director of Health Information Services at the Saskatoon Community Clinic in Saskatchewan, you are immediately struck by his warmth, wisdom, and dedication to patient-centered care.

Marx’s journey begins thousands of miles away in the Philippines, where he developed a deep sense of service at a young age. His first mentor was his mother, a public health worker whose tireless efforts in underserved communities ignited a passion in Marx and planted the seeds of his lifelong commitment to serving others.

At 15, Marx began his leadership path as a youth representative on his city council. He later channeled his creativity as an editorial cartoonist, using art to shed light on social issues. These early experiences laid the foundation for a career that uniquely blends leadership, creativity, and compassion.

While working as a nurse in the Philippines, Marx not only provided care for patients but also served as Executive Director of the Suntown Camp Foundation, a nonprofit organization supporting children with cancer and chronic illnesses. Reflecting on this impactful time, Marx shared a poignant memory:

“I remember a young boy with leukemia standing up to sing during one of our camp activities. Despite his physical weakness, he expressed gratitude with such courage. That moment reminded me that leadership is not just about decisions—it’s about creating spaces for dignity and hope.” 

Marx’s transition to health information management was driven by his desire to influence not just individual lives but entire systems. As a nurse, he recognized the power of data in empowering care teams and observed how inefficiencies could hinder patient outcomes. This realization sparked his passion for bridging the gap between care delivery and data management, leading him from bedside care to overseeing complex health information systems.

Equipped with a degree from the Centre for Distance Education, Marx forged a unique path by combining his clinical expertise with data-driven strategies. His nursing background enables him to see the patient behind the data, fostering systems that are both efficient and compassionate.

“Every lab result, every chart represents a person with fears, hopes, and dreams,” he says. “That perspective guides everything I do.” 

Today, Marx’s responsibilities go far beyond managing records. He spearheads projects and incorporates artificial intelligence into healthcare, prioritizing privacy and trust at every step. His ongoing pursuit of an MBA in Management and Change underscores his dedication to guiding teams through the rapidly evolving health information landscape.

“Healthcare is constantly changing, and it’s our responsibility not just to adapt but to lead with empathy,” Marx shares.

Marx’s advice for those entering the healthcare sector?

“Lead with empathy, embrace change, and never stop learning. Together, we can shape the future of healthcare—one record at a time.” 

Marx De La Rosa’s story serves as a powerful reminder that healthcare is about more than just systems and data; it’s about people, purpose, and making a lasting impact. Whether he’s mentoring aspiring health information professionals or advocating for patient-centered innovation, Marx embodies the belief that every piece of data tells a story—one that can drive better outcomes for all.

BIOGRAPHY

Marx Louie De La Rosa is the Director of Health Information Services at the Saskatoon Community Clinic. With a background in nursing and nonprofit leadership, he transitioned into health information management (HIM) to improve healthcare systems through data. Marx holds a degree from the Centre for Distance Education, along with certifications in Health Information Management (CHIM), privacy (CIPP/C), and access and privacy (CIAPP-C). His experience spans both human and veterinary health, providing him with a unique perspective. Marx is also pursuing an MBA with a focus on Management and Change to continue driving innovation in healthcare.