MyChart Login

CUC-Anna

by

CommUnityCare Health Centers Strengthens Support for Foster Families, Earns Foster Care Center of Excellence Designation 

Children and youth in foster care often face unique challenges that can affect their health, including frequent placement changes, gaps in care, unmet behavioral health needs and trauma. To help address those needs, CommUnityCare Health Centers is launching its Foster Care Center of Excellence program, expanding specialized services and support for children, youth and caregivers involved in the foster care system across Central Texas. 

Building on its longstanding commitment to providing care for everyone who needs it, CommUnityCare Health Centers is enhancing care coordination, behavioral health services and caregiver support while expanding access to specialized, trauma-informed care. The program follows the organization’s designation as a Foster Care Center of Excellence (FCCOE) by Superior HealthPlan, recognizing CommUnityCare Health Centers as one of the first health care providers in the Austin area to meet rigorous standards for serving children and youth enrolled in the STAR Health Medicaid program. 

“Every child deserves access to healthcare that is compassionate, consistent, and responsive to their unique needs—that’s why CommUnityCare has long served children and youth in foster care as a trusted home for care,” said Dr. Nicholas Yagoda, CEO of CommUnityCare Health Centers. “The FCCOE designation helps us spread the word so we can reach more foster parents looking for wraparound services and more partners looking for a team that’s growing to better meet the needs of the youth we support.” 

In Texas, children and youth in foster care receive Medicaid coverage through STAR Health, a program administered by Superior HealthPlan. The Foster Care Center of Excellence designation recognizes healthcare organizations that meet rigorous standards for quality improvement, care coordination, program infrastructure, and staff training to support the medical, behavioral health, and social needs of children and youth in foster care. 

These children and youth often experience circumstances that can make it more difficult to maintain continuity of care and achieve positive health outcomes. As a Foster Care Center of Excellence, CommUnityCareHealth Centers provides a medical home for STAR Health members, offering primary care, behavioral health, dental, pharmacy, and care management services. The program is designed to make it easier for caregivers, caseworkers, and community partners to connect children and youth with timely, comprehensive care. 

“CommUnityCare has a long history of serving Central Texans and we are proud to welcome them as a Foster Care Center of Excellence,” said Mitch Wasden, President and CEO of Superior HealthPlan. “We want to ensure children and youth in foster care, as well as their caregivers, have access to comprehensive, high-quality health care. This partnership will help expand access to trusted providers and further our shared commitment to strengthening health outcomes and expanding access to care.” 

The designation also reflects CommUnityCare Health Centers’ commitment to strengthening support for foster care patients and caregivers. By expanding care coordination and building stronger partnerships throughout the community, CommUnityCare is working to improve continuity of care and health outcomes for children and youth involved in the foster care system. CommUnityCare Health Centers is proud to be one of 14 providers statewide recognized as a Foster Care Center of Excellence by Superior HealthPlan. 

Kickoff Celebration Photo Gallery

Take a look at highlights from the CommUnityCare Health Centers Foster Care Center of Excellence Kickoff Event, where team members, community partners, and community members came together to celebrate this important milestone and our shared commitment to improving care for children and youth in foster care across Central Texas.

by

Beyond the Prescription. How a Clinical Pharmacist Can Help You Manage Chronic Conditions.

Alexander Garcia, UTCOP Doctor of Pharmacy Candidate 2027 
Chelsey Roscoe, PharmD, BCACP 
July 10, 2026

Managing a chronic condition can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At CommUnityCare Health Centers, clinical pharmacists are part of your healthcare team. They work closely with your provider to help you understand your medications, manage your condition, and reach your health goals. 

Whether you’re managing diabetes, high blood pressure, heart failure, or another long-term condition, a clinical pharmacist can provide extra support. 

Who Can Benefit from a Clinical Pharmacy Appointment? 

If you’ve seen your provider within the past year, a clinical pharmacist is available to support you with your medications. They can help answer medication questions, make sure your treatment plan is working well, and, in many cases, start or adjust medications under the guidance of your care team. 

Clinical pharmacists can help patients manage conditions such as: 

  • High blood sugar (diabetes) 
  • High blood pressure 
  • Blood clotting conditions that require blood thinners
  • Obesity 
  • Heart failure 
  • Thyroid conditions 
  • Smoking cessation 

What Does a Clinical Pharmacist Do?

Your primary care provider diagnoses and treats your health conditions. Think of a clinical pharmacist as your medication expert. They work alongside your provider to help ensure your medications are safe, effective, and working for you. 

A clinical pharmacist may see you during your provider visit or connect with you between appointments, either in person or by phone. 

During an appointment, a clinical pharmacist may: 

  • Check your blood pressure and weight 
  • Start or adjust medications 
  • Help with prescription refills 
  • Answer questions about your medications 
  • Monitor for side effects 
  • Order lab work or recommend screenings when appropriate 
  • Work with your care team to help you stay on track with your treatment plan 

How to Prepare for Your Clinical Pharmacy Appointment 

A little preparation can help you get the most out of your visit. Before your appointment: 

  • Bring your medications, a photo of your medication bottles, or an up-to-date list of everything you take. 
  • If you monitor your blood pressure or blood sugar at home, bring your monitor or a log of your recent readings.
  • Ask questions. Write down any concerns ahead of time so we can address them together.
  • Check MyChart for appointment reminders or messages from your care team. 

We’re Here to Help 

Managing a chronic condition is easier when you have the right support. Clinical pharmacists are here to help you understand your medications, answer your questions, and work with your healthcare team so you can feel confident in your care. 

If you’re not currently seeing a clinical pharmacist, talk with your provider to find out whether a clinical pharmacy appointment may be right for you. 

To learn more about pharmacy services at CommUnityCare Health Centers, visit the Pharmacy Services page on our website. 

by

Simple Ways to Stay Healthy During Summer Adventures 

Rehab R Abdelfattah, MD, MPH, Director of Infection Prevention and Control  
June 23, 2026

Summer is a time for travel, celebrations, sporting events, and spending time with family and friends. Whether you’re heading out on a road trip, attending a community festival, traveling to a major event like the 2026 FIFA World Cup, or simply enjoying activities closer to home, a few simple health habits can help keep you feeling your best all season long. 

Stay Hydrated and Beat the Heat 

Texas summers can bring extreme temperatures, making hydration especially important. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion, and other heat-related illnesses. 

If you’re spending time outdoors: 

  • Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. 
  • Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. 
  • Be mindful of signs of heat-related illness, including dizziness, headaches, nausea, or unusual fatigue. 

Practice Good Hygiene in Crowded Settings 

Large gatherings can increase exposure to common illnesses. Whether you’re attending a sporting event, concert, festival, fan zone, or family reunion, simple hygiene practices can help protect you and those around you. 

Consider these everyday habits: 

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. 
  • Use hand sanitizer when handwashing isn’t available. 
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow. 
  • Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands. 

Wear a well-fitting mask in very crowded indoor spaces to give you and others extra protection when respiratory illnesses are going around, especially if you have a higher risk of getting seriously ill. 

Stay Up to Date on Routine Preventive Care 

Summer activities can make it easy to postpone healthcare appointments, but preventive care remains important year-round. 

Staying current on recommended vaccinations, annual checkups, and routine screenings can help protect your health and identify potential concerns early. For many people, this may include vaccines for illnesses like COVID‑19, influenza, and measles, especially before traveling or attending large events. Talk with your healthcare provider about which vaccines and preventive services are right for you and your family.

Listen to Your Body 

If you’re not feeling well, it’s important to take care of yourself and avoid exposing others to illness. 

If you develop symptoms such as fever, persistent cough, shortness of breath, vomiting, diarrhea or other concerning symptoms, consider staying home and contacting your healthcare provider. Avoid attending work, school, or large gatherings until you’ve discussed your symptoms with a provider. Seeking care early can help you recover more quickly and prevent illness from spreading. 

Let Your Healthcare Team Know About Recent Travel 

Travel can sometimes affect healthcare decisions. This is especially true during large international events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup. If you visit a healthcare provider after returning from a trip, be sure to share where you’ve traveled and when. 

This information helps your care team better understand your symptoms, recommend appropriate testing when needed, and provide the best possible care. 

Healthy Habits Make a Difference 

Whether you’re traveling across the country, attending a large event, or enjoying summer activities in your own community, small steps can go a long way toward protecting your health. 

By staying hydrated, practicing good hygiene, keeping up with preventive care, and seeking medical attention when needed, you can help make this summer a healthy and enjoyable one for yourself and your family. 

by

More Than a Bright Smile. Why Regular Dental Care Matters.  

Josh Even, DMD, Director of Dental Services 
June 15, 2026

When people think about visiting the dentist, they often think about clean teeth and a brighter smile. While those are certainly benefits of regular dental care, routine dental visits play an important rolein protecting your overall health. 

Your mouth is often considered a window into your health. Problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections can affect more than just your teeth. They can impact your ability to eat, speak, and even manage certain chronic health conditions. That’s why preventive dental care, including regular exams and cleanings, is one of the most important steps you can take to stay healthy. 

Why Professional Dental Exams Matter 

Regular dental visits also allow your dental team to identify potential concerns early, often before they become painful or require more extensive treatment. Preventive care can save time, discomfort, and expense down the road. 

Even with daily brushing and flossing, plaque can build up in areas that are difficult to reach. Over time, that plaque can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed with a toothbrush alone. Professional dental cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. 

While many people are familiar with the recommendation to visit the dentist every six months, most people don’t know where that recommendation started. The first occurrence of the adage ‘see you dentist twice a year for healthy teeth’ was in a Pepsodent dentifrice commercial in the 1920’s! Current research indicates that there is no benefit for a healthy mouth to be seen more than once a year. The reality is that there is no single schedule that works for everyone. Oral health needs vary from person to person and can be influenced by factors such as age, medical history, medications, risk for gum disease, and overall oral health. That’s why dental care (including cleaning frequency) should be tailored to the individual, with treatment plans and cleaning schedules based on each patient’s unique needs. 

Oral Health and Whole-Person Health 

Good oral health is closely connected to overall well-being. Untreated dental problems can affect nutrition, self-confidence, and quality of life. In addition, research has shown links between oral health and chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and other health concerns. 

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is an important part of caring for your entire body. Some simple habits that can help support good oral health include: 

  • Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste 
  • Flossing daily to remove plaque between teeth
  • Using an antimicrobial mouthwash before bed
  • Limiting sugary foods and drinks, especially in between meals
  • Drinking plenty of water throughout the day
  • Avoiding tobacco products 
  • Scheduling regular dental exams and cleanings
  • Seeking dental care when you notice pain, swelling, or other concerns 

These small steps can help prevent cavities and gum disease while supporting your overall health for years to come. 

Dental Care for the Whole Family 

Dental care is important at every stage of life, even during infancy. Dental health exams can begin as early as six months of age as part of a child’s well medical or dental checkup. These early visits help identify potential concerns and establish healthy habits from the start. 

For children and adults alike, routine dental care helps prevent problems before they begin and supports long-term oral health. 

Dental Services at CommUnityCare Health Centers 

A healthy smile means a healthier you. At CommUnityCare Health Centers, our dental teams are committed to helping individuals and families access quality dental care. 

Through compassionate care and a commitment to health equity, CommUnityCare Health Centers works to ensure patients have access to the dental services they need to maintain healthy smiles and healthy lives. For more information about our services, visit HERE.  

by

Preeclampsia in Pregnancy. Catching It Early Makes a Big Difference.  

Hope Woodard, CNM, DNP, Advanced Practice Provider  
May 28, 2026

Pregnancy comes with many changes, and while some symptoms are expected, others can signal something more serious. Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that causes high blood pressure and can affect important organs like the liver and kidneys. Most cases develop after 20 weeks of pregnancy, but preeclampsia can also occur after delivery during the postpartum period. 

Recognizing the signs and staying connected with your care team can make a meaningful difference for both parent and baby. 

Understanding Preeclampsia 

Preeclampsia and high blood pressure disorders during pregnancy affect approximately 5–8% of births in the United States. While the exact cause of preeclampsia is not fully understood, experts believe it may be related to how the placenta develops and functions during pregnancy. 

When left untreated, preeclampsia can progress quickly and lead to serious, and sometimes life-threatening, complications. It is also one of the leading causes of premature birth and pregnancy-related complications in the United States and around the world. 

Some people have a higher risk of developing preeclampsia than others. 

Risk factors can include: 

  • First pregnancy  
  • Previous history of preeclampsia  
  • Pregnancy with twins or multiples  
  • Chronic high blood pressure  
  • Diabetes  
  • Obesity  
  • Maternal age over 35 

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that people who are at high risk for preeclampsia consider taking low-dose aspirin beginning after 12 weeks of pregnancy to help lower their risk. If you are pregnant, talk with your provider about whether this recommendation may be right for you. 

Know the Warning Signs 

One challenge with preeclampsia is that it can develop quietly. Symptoms may seem mild at first or be easy to dismiss as a normal part of pregnancy, which is why awareness and regular prenatal care are so important. 

Warning signs can include: 

  • Severe headaches that do not go away with rest or medication  
  • Changes in vision, such as blurry vision, sensitivity to light, or seeing spots  
  • Swelling in the face or hands, especially if it appears suddenly  
  • Pain in the upper abdomen, often under the ribs on the right side  
  • Nausea or vomiting later in pregnancy  
  • Sudden weight gain over a short period of time  
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing  

It is important to remember that swelling in the feet and ankles is common and often a normal part of pregnancy. 

Why Prenatal Visits Matter 

Even if you feel fine, regular prenatal visits are essential. These appointments help monitor changes that may happen before symptoms appear. Blood pressure checks, lab work, and conversations with your provider can help identify concerns early. 

Skipping appointments or delaying care can mean missing early warning signs. Prenatal visits are more than routine check-ins, they are an important part of helping you and your baby stay healthy throughout pregnancy. 

If you are pregnant, there are a few simple steps you can take to help protect your health: 

  • Attend all scheduled prenatal visits  
  • Learn the signs and symptoms of preeclampsia  
  • Seek care if you notice concerning symptoms or changes in your body  
  • Ask your provider if low-dose aspirin may help lower your risk during pregnancy  
  • If you ever feel uncertain about a symptom or something does not feel right, contact your provider. You deserve to feel informed, supported, and safe throughout your pregnancy journey. 

Raising Awareness Together 

During Preeclampsia Awareness Month, join us in helping raise awareness and understanding about this important pregnancy condition. Sharing information with expecting parents, friends, and family members can help more people recognize the signs early. 

Early awareness and detection of preeclampsia can save lives. 

by

Care From Both Sides: Ruby Zaleta’s Story of Connection and Compassion

For Ruby Zaleta, healthcare has always been personal. 

As an OB/GYN Care Coordinator at CommUnityCare Health Centers, Ruby helps new mothers and families navigate some of life’s most important moments, scheduling postpartum visits, coordinating newborn appointments, supporting breastfeeding mothers, and connecting families to helpful resources along the way. 

But her connection to the mission goes far beyond her role as an employee. Ruby is also a patient of CommUnityCare Health Centers. 

“It’s kind of crazy to work and actually get the care that you give,” Ruby said with a smile. “But for me, it felt like a blessing to have that opportunity.” 

Born and raised in Austin, Ruby is a mother of four who understands firsthand how meaningful compassionate healthcare can be for families. Her children also receive care through CommUnityCare Health Centers, and she has participated in the organization’s Centering programs as both a staff member and patient. 

That dual perspective as both caregiver and patient has shaped the way she approaches her work every day. 

“It makes me take more into consideration what our patients think and what they need,” Ruby shared. “Because I’m a patient myself, and my kids are patients here too.”

Before joining the organization, Ruby worked in urgent care settings where difficult conversations about insurance coverage and cost were part of daily life. Those experiences stayed with her. 

“Every single time we had to ask, ‘Do you have insurance?’ or ‘Is this self-pay?’ it would really get to me,” she said. “Sometimes people don’t have the money or insurance, and why should that be a barrier to being seen?” 

Wanting to be part of something different, Ruby sought out a nonprofit healthcare organization focused on serving the community. She joined CommUnityCare Health Centers as a Medical Assistant in pediatrics and quickly discovered a passion for supporting families. Over time, she transitioned into a parenting facilitator role and later into women’s health. 

Today, Ruby supports postpartum moms by helping schedule follow-up care for both mothers and newborns. She also connects patients with resources such as lactation consultations and diaper support when needed. 

For Ruby, the work is deeply meaningful because she sees herself in the patients she serves. 

“It really fills my heart with joy that we’re here to help our community,” she said. “It’s not just a job. Sometimes you take it personal because you see yourself in that position as the patient.” 

That sense of connection also inspired Ruby to seek care for her own family through CommUnityCare Health Centers. While working in pediatrics, she saw providers go above and beyond to build relationships with patients and families. 

“They really see patients as family,” Ruby said. “I wanted that for my kids too.” 

She found that same sense of community through the CenteringParenting and CenteringPregnancy programs, where families connect with providers and one another in supportive group settings. 

“You build your own community here,” Ruby explained. “You meet other moms, hear from other moms, and grow together.” 

Ruby says those shared experiences can be empowering for patients, especially new mothers navigating questions and uncertainty during pregnancy and parenting. 

“When you have that trust and feel comfortable asking questions, it makes a big difference,” she said. “Sometimes another mom asks the question you were afraid to ask.” 

As both an employee and patient, Ruby says her experiences have only strengthened her belief in the mission and the importance of accessible, compassionate healthcare.

by

CommUnityCare Health Centers Releases Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Report Highlighting Growth, Expanded Access, and Community Impact 

In fiscal year 2025, CommUnityCare Health Centers expanded access to care and strengthened services across Central Texas through new programs, expanded clinic services, strategic initiatives, and continued investments in the patient experience. The organization’s newly released FY25 Annual Report highlights progress made throughout the year while reinforcing its mission of strengthening the health and well-being of the communities it serves.  

View and Download FY25 Annual Report 

“Fiscal year 2025 reflected significant growth, meaningful collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to meeting the needs of our patients,” said Dr. Nicholas Yagoda, Chief Executive Officer of CommUnityCare Health Centers. ” Our progress is powered by the dedication of our staff, the trust of our patients, and partnerships across the community. Together, we are building a more connected, equitable, and accessible system of care that strengthens health and opportunity for the communities we serve.” 

By the Numbers: Meeting Growing Community Need 

Demand for care continued to grow in FY25 as CommUnityCare Health Centers served 148,234 unique patients through more than 557,000 patient visits, including more than 50,000 virtual visits. The organization continued providing comprehensive care across primary care, specialty services, behavioral health, dental care, and other essential health services designed to meet the needs of patients and families throughout Central Texas.  

Many of the patients served face significant barriers to care. More than half of patients were uninsured, while nearly all patients who reported income were living at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of patients reported being best served in a language other than English, highlighting the ongoing importance of culturally responsive care and reducing barriers to access. 

Expanding Access Across Growing Communities 

Throughout FY25, CommUnityCare Health Centers continued investing in services and facilities designed to bring healthcare closer to patients. The opening of the Del Valle Health and Wellness Center expanded access to comprehensive care, dental services, and pharmacy resources in one of Travis County’s fastest-growing communities. Additional service expansion at Hornsby Bend Health & Wellness Center and the launch of the Wellness and Holistic Addiction Medicine (WHAM) Clinic further strengthened access for patients who have historically faced barriers to care. 

The organization also launched IDEALhealth, an initiative focused on expanding access to inclusive sexual health services, including STI and HIV testing, prevention resources, family planning services, and specialized care. 

Advancing Quality and Patient-Centered Care 

Beyond increasing access, FY25 brought significant progress in quality improvement and clinical innovation. Depression screening rates increased from 61% to 74% through new workflows and digital tools that created a more consistent patient experience across clinics. Expanded Medicare Annual Wellness Visits and ongoing value-based care initiatives also strengthened proactive care and long-term health management.  

These efforts reflect a broader shift toward more coordinated, preventive care designed to improve health outcomes and create a stronger care experience for patients. 

Strengthening Communities Beyond Clinic Walls 

Community partnerships continued to play an important role in extending support beyond healthcare settings. During FY25, CommUnityCare Health Centers partnered with 27 organizations and participated in 59 outreach events, helping connect individuals and families to healthcare services and community resources. More than 18,400 individuals received support through referrals addressing needs such as food access, housing, transportation, and financial assistance.  

Looking Ahead to the Year of Access 

As CommUnityCare Health Centers continues its FY26 work, priorities include expanding telehealth and digital tools, enhancing the patient experience, and continuing efforts to remove barriers that make it harder for individuals and families to access care.  

“As we enter our Year of Access, we are focusing every part of our system on improving the speed, ease, and equity with which patients connect to care,” said Dr. Nicholas Yagoda, Chief Executive Officer of CommUnityCare Health Centers. “Access is not simply an operational priority — it is central to our belief that every person deserves dignity in the care they receive.” 

The full FY25 Annual Report can be viewed HERE.  

by

Take Control Today. How Managing Blood Pressure Can Help Prevent Stroke.  

Emily Bui, PharmD, Clinical Pharmacy Resident 
Catherine Nghiem, PharmD, Clinical Pharmacy Resident 
Amanda Waterman, MD, Primary Care Physician 
May 22, 2026

Most people don’t think about their blood pressure until there’s a problem, but high blood pressure can quietly affect your health for years without noticeable symptoms. Over time, it can increase your risk for serious conditions like stroke, heart disease, and kidney damage. 

The good news is that small daily habits, regular monitoring, and support from your healthcare team can make a big difference. Understanding your blood pressure numbers and knowing the warning signs of stroke are important steps toward protecting your health and preventing future complications. 

What is a stroke?  

A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or when a small blood vessel bursts. Without enough oxygen, brain cells begin to die within minutes.  

Symptoms of a stroke can include numbness or weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, changes in vision, confusion, or loss of consciousness. If you have high blood pressure and you are experiencing these symptoms, seek medical attention right away. Some effects of a stroke can be long-lasting, which is why prevention is so important. 

High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is the number one preventable cause of stroke. Monitoring your blood pressure regularly at home can help you and your care team better understand your health and catch concerns early. 

Understanding Your Blood Pressure Numbers 

Your blood pressure reading includes two numbers: 

Systolic blood pressure (top number): is the pressure on your artery walls when your heart contracts. 

Diastolic blood pressure (bottom number): is the pressure on your artery walls between heartbeats, when your heart relaxes.

A normal blood pressure reading is less than 120/80 mm Hg. For many people diagnosed with high blood pressure, the goal is to maintain a blood pressure below 130/80 mm Hg. Contact your provider, if your blood pressure is higher than 180/120 mmHg. 

Tips for Monitoring Blood Pressure at Home 

Checking your blood pressure at home is one of the best ways to stay informed about your health. Here are a few ways to get the most accurate readings: 

  • Measure your blood pressure twice daily around the same time each day. 
  • Sit comfortably with both feet flat on the floor for at least five minutes before measuring your blood pressure.
  • Rest your arm on a table while measuring your blood pressure. 
  • Avoid checking right after eating, drinking caffeine, or with a full bladder. These factors can temporarily increase your blood pressure and affect your reading.   
  • Keep a log of your readings or take photos to share with your healthcare provider during visits. You can also ask your clinic for a blood pressure logbook to help track your numbers. 

Take Charge of Your Health  

Managing blood pressure often starts with small, consistent habits. You can reduce your risk of stroke by: 

  • Consistently take your medications as prescribed. Ask questions if you don’t understand. We’re here to help.
  • Reducing salt intake to less than 1,500 mg per day can help support healthy blood pressure. 
  • Staying active with a goal of at least 150 minutes of exercise each week. 
  • Maintaining regularly scheduled appointments and stay connected with your care team.  

It’s also important to request medication refills at least a week before you run out to avoid interruptions in treatment. If you do not have any remaining refills, your pharmacy can send a refill request.  

Checking your blood pressure regularly, talking with your healthcare provider about your results, and making healthy lifestyle changes can all help protect your long-term health. Together, we can take steps to reduce the risk of stroke and build healthier communities. 

by

Central Health Breaks Ground on Colony Park Health & Wellness Center 

May 18, 2026

AUSTIN, Texas — The Central Health system officially broke ground Saturday on the Colony Park Health & Wellness Center, a $37 million, 34,000-square-foot facility that will deliver comprehensive health care and community services to Northeast Austin. Located at 6420 Helen Miller View in the Colony Park community, the center is projected to open in summer 2027. 

“This groundbreaking is about keeping a promise to this community,” said Dr. Pat Lee, Central Health president and CEO. “Colony Park residents and leaders have long called for a stronger health care presence close to home, and this center is a direct result of that advocacy. We’re proud to help bring this vision to life, as part of our mission to build a health system that is more accessible, more connected, and more responsive to the people we serve.” 

Care Closer to Home 

The groundbreaking marks the latest milestone in more than a decade of planning, community engagement, and investment in Eastern Travis County. When the center opens, services operated by CommUnityCare Health Centers and Central Health will bring high-quality care closer to home. Colony Park residents will have access to:  

  • Primary care 
  • Dental services 
  • Behavioral health services 
  • On-site pharmacy with drive-thru 
  • Lab services 
  • Wellness and prevention programs 
  • Community resources and enrollment services 

“For years, CommUnityCare Health Centers has worked alongside Colony Park residents to expand access to care and strengthen community health in Northeast Austin,” said Dr. Nicholas Yagoda, CommUnityCare Health Centers CEO and executive vice president of ambulatory services at Central Health. “For too long, many members of this community have had to travel outside their neighborhood to receive routine care, fill prescriptions, or connect to important health resources. This new center represents a meaningful investment in the health and well-being of Northeast Austin families, and we’re proud to help create a space where residents can access compassionate, patient-centered care in the community they call home.” 

A Community That’s Been Waiting 

The center will serve a growing and diverse community. According to Central Health’s 2022 Demographic Report, Colony Park is home to more than 20,000 residents, with 69.4% identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Nearly one in three residents is under 18. In 2023, 4,593 Colony Park residents were enrolled in Central Health programs—roughly one in four people living in the neighborhood. 

Congressman Lloyd Doggett also spoke at the ceremony, noting that $1 million in federal funding is going toward critical infrastructure supporting the health center and the surrounding neighborhood.  

A Decade in the Making 

Central Health has maintained a health care presence in the area since 2019 when CommUnityCare Health Centers, which will operate clinical services at the new facility, first brought a mobile medical clinic to Colony Park offering primary care and pharmacy services.  

The Northeast Health Resource Center followed in 2021, providing a home base for clinical and enrollment services while the permanent facility was in development. The groundbreaking on the Colony Park Health & Wellness Center represents the transition from that temporary infrastructure to a permanent, purpose-built home. 

Colony Park community leaders and neighborhood association members also spoke at Saturday’s ceremony, including advocates who have championed investment in the community for years. Following the groundbreaking, Central Health hosted a community celebration at Colony Park District Park.  

The project is part of the Colony Park Sustainable Community, a 200-acre planned development in Northeast Austin that will include up to 3,000 new residences along with retail, office space, and infrastructure improvements. 

by

Understanding Depression in Teens. A Guide for Families. 

John Swanson, MD, Director of Behavioral Health and Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist   
Heather Hart Gause, LCSW-S, Associate Director of Behavioral Health and Behavioral Health Consultant 
May 18, 2026

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, an important time to talk about one of the most common challenges facing families today: depression in teens. While adolescence is naturally a period of change, depression is more than just “moodiness”—it is a treatable medical condition that can affect every aspect of a young person’s life. 

Why This Matters to You 

Depression impacts not only teens, but also their families, friendships, and overall wellbeing. Addressing mental health early can improve school performance, strengthen relationships, and prevent long-term health complications. Most importantly, early intervention works. Recognizing the signs and seeking support can provide relief and lead to a healthier, happier future as they navigate adulthood.

Key Facts Every Parent and Teen Should Know 

  • It is common: Roughly 1 in 7 adolescents experience a major depressive episode. 
  • It looks different in teens: Unlike adults who may appear sad, teens experiencing depression often appear irritable, frustrated, or angry. 
  • It is physical: Depression can cause unexplained headaches, stomachaches, and extreme fatigue. 

Practical Tips for Supporting Your Teen 

  • Validate, Don’t Fix 
    Sometimes, a teen simply needs to feel heard. Instead of offering immediate solutions, try saying, “I can see you’re going through a lot.” I’m here for you.” 
  • Encourage Small Wins 
    Focus on basic self-care routines such as a 10-minute walk, a consistent sleep schedule, or eating a balanced meal. Small habits can make a meaningful difference. 
  • Monitor Tech Usage 
    Social media can sometimes worsen feelings of isolation or inadequacy. Encourage “digital breaks” where the whole family puts phones away and reconnects in person.  

Common Misconceptions 

  • Myth: “It’s just a phase.”  
    Reality: Depression is a clinical condition that often requires professional support to treat and manage.
  • Myth: “Asking about it makes it worse.”
    Reality: Talking openly about emotions or thoughts of self-harm can reduce risk by helping teens feel safe, supported, and understood. 
  • Myth: “They are just being lazy.”  
    Reality: Depression drains physical energy and motivation. What looks like laziness is often a symptom of the illness. 

When to Take Action 

It may be time to reach out to a healthcare provider if you notice these behaviors lasting more than two weeks: 

  1. Withdrawal: Quitting sports, hobbies, or avoiding friends. 
  2. Sleep Changes: Sleeping all day or being unable to fall asleep at night. 
  3. Academic Drops: A sudden, significant change in grades or school attendance. 
  4. Self-Harm: Any talk of “not wanting to be here” or signs of physical self-injury. 

Teens Are Navigating a Different World 

Today’s teenagers are growing up during a time of constant change and stress. Many experienced increased isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, and social media and technology now play a larger role in daily life than ever before. While technology can help teens stay connected, they can also create pressure, comparison, and feelings of loneliness. 

Many young people are also aware of challenges happening around them, from school safety concerns to financial stress and difficult news online. For teens who have experienced trauma or instability, these stressors can feel even heavier. Sometimes what looks like irritability, withdrawal, or “acting out” is actually a sign that a teen needs support and connection. 

The good news is that positive relationships make a difference. Spending time together, listening without judgment, encouraging healthy routines, and helping teens feel supported can strengthen emotional well-being and remind them they are not alone. 

How to Start the Conversation with a Provider 

You do not need to have all the answers before asking for help. A simple conversation with your primary care provider can be the first step. You can say: 

“I’ve noticed some changes in my teen’s mood lately and I’m concerned. Can we schedule with a Behavioral Health Consultant?” 

At CommUnityCare Health Centers, integrated behavioral health services are available within primary care settings. Behavioral Health Consultants can help teens and families develop coping skills and navigate stressors, while psychiatric providers can assist with medication management when appropriate. These care team members work alongside primary care providers to support patients experiencing depression symptoms and other behavioral health concerns with compassion and expert care. 

If you or a loved one are in immediate distress, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.