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CommUnityCare Launches IDEALhealth: A New Inclusive Sexual Health Program 

CommUnityCare Health Centers is excited to announce the launch of IDEALhealth, a new sexual health program in Austin. This new endeavor is made possible through a $1.3 million, 5-year grant from the CDC’s Enhancing STI and Sexual Health Clinic Infrastructure Initiative and $2.4 million, 5-year grant from the DSHS HIV Clinical HIV/STI Prevention in Community Health Centers Grant Program.  

IDEALhealth, which stands for Inclusive, Diverse, Equitable, Accessible, and Liberating, is dedicated to providing accessible, compassionate, and stigma-free sexual health services to the Central Texas community. 

The IDEALhealth program began operations on November 4, 2024, with full operations expected by January 2025. Located within the CommUnityCare Sandra Joy Anderson Health & Wellness Center, the program will provide vital services including STI and HIV testing, risk reduction counseling and connections, family planning, sexual dysfunction care and primary-specialized sexual health care.  

“We believe that sexual health is a fundamental part of overall health,” said Dr. Michael Stefanowicz, Director of Intensive Outpatient Care and Inclusion Health at CommUnityCare Health Centers. “IDEALhealth will be a welcoming, sex-positive space that offers support and care to all, especially for those in our community who have historically faced barriers to accessing quality sexual health services.” 

The clinic is focused on reaching populations who often experience health disparities, including Black and Latinx women, young adults aged 18-24, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, people who use drugs, and unsheltered individuals. IDEALhealth will work closely with trusted community partners like the Texas Harm Reduction Alliance, SAFE Alliance, and Huston-Tillotson University to reach those who can benefit most from its services. 

The CDC funding is also supporting the establishment of a community advisory panel, which kicked off September 25, 2024. The panel will play an integral role in shaping the program’s services, ensuring they are inclusive, responsive, and aligned with the real needs of those they serve. 

By January 2025, IDEALhealth aims to reach 100 new patients from priority populations, contributing to a healthier, more informed Austin community. 

“The IDEAL Health team is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment where sexual health care is easily accessible and fully integrated into overall well-being,” said Dr. Crystal Walker, Associate Director of Sexual Health Programs at CommUnityCare Health Centers. 

To learn more about the IDEALhealth Program and schedule a visit, click here. 

IDEALhealth Providers pictured left to right: Dr. Ben Hersh, Family Medicine Provider; Dr. Kaitlin Valentine, Family Medicine Provider; and Dr. Crystal Walker, Family Medicine Provider and Associate Director Sexual Health Programs
IDEALhealth Clinical Support Staff pictured left to right: Ada Oli, Charge Nurse; Carlos Zuniga Valencia, Medical Assistant; Lei Lei Gant, STI Adherence Registered Nurse; and Raime Lorez Perez, Medical Assistant

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CommUnityCare™ Health Centers Nationally Recognized by the American Heart Association for Excellence in Patient Care 

Austin, TX, 2024 — CommUnityCare Health Centers has been honored by the American Heart Association (AHA) and American Medical Association (AMA) for its outstanding commitment to managing chronic conditions that significantly impact health outcomes.  

CommUnityCare earned three distinctions: the Gold Award for cholesterol management, the Silver Award for blood pressure control, and the Participant Award for diabetes care. Each of these awards reflects a sustained effort to reduce health risks and improve quality of life for patients across Central Texas. 

 

The Check. Change. Control. Cholesterol™ Gold Award is the highest level of recognition in cholesterol management and celebrates CommUnityCare Health Centers’ commitment to reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke through improved cholesterol monitoring and treatment. High cholesterol is a key, controllable risk factor for coronary heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. By achieving this gold standard, CommUnityCare is helping to protect patients from these life-threatening conditions, especially for those who often face barriers to accessing care. 

 

The Target: BP™ Silver Award acknowledges the CommUnityCare team’s progress in controlling blood pressure rates across its patient base. Blood pressure management is essential, as hypertension is a leading contributor to heart disease, strokes, and preventable deaths in the U.S. The Silver Award further recognizes our commitment to accuracy in measurement and adherence to best practices in managing high blood pressure. This effort is particularly vital for vulnerable populations, who are often at greater risk of unmanaged hypertension due to limited access to consistent, affordable healthcare. 

 

The Target: Type 2 Diabetes℠ Participant Award highlights the CommUnityCare team’s proactive approach to managing diabetes and addressing the connection between diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors. The Participant Award acknowledges practices that have taken essential steps in data submission and clinical measure tracking, demonstrating a commitment to quality diabetes care. Given that diabetes disproportionately affects underserved communities, our efforts in this area aim to provide patients with a pathway to better health and prevent further complications. 

 

“We are honored to be recognized for our commitment to delivering evidence-based care,” said Dr. Susan Dubois, Interim Chief Medical Officer at CommUnityCare Health Centers. “These awards affirm our dedication to supporting patients in managing chronic conditions, particularly in low-income and uninsured communities where barriers to care are often highest. Our goal is to empower every patient with the knowledge and resources they need to live healthier lives.” 

These national recognitions underscore CommUnityCare Health Centers’ mission to make high-quality healthcare accessible to all, with a focus on breaking down barriers that often prevent low-income, uninsured, and underinsured individuals from receiving essential care for chronic conditions. 

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Honoring Our Veteran Employees: A Tribute to Service, Strength and Dedication

This Veterans Day, we are proud to honor the incredible service, dedication and leadership of our veteran employees at CommUnityCare Health Centers. Their unique experiences and values, forged during service, shape the compassionate, mission-driven care they provide every day. Today, we spotlight three exceptional team members whose journeys from military service to healthcare have deeply enriched our organization and community.

Chad Roberts, Director of Procurement

For Chad Roberts, joining the United States Marine Corps was originally a way out of rural Ohio. “The region does present an abundance of opportunities for poor, Midwestern kids with little to no guidance,” said Roberts.

Little did he know, his enlistment would provide him with a newfound sense of purpose and leadership. “The Marine Corps gave me the guidance I desperately needed but didn’t know I was missing,” Roberts shares.

Influenced by Marine Gen. James Mattis, Roberts embraced the philosophy of “coaching” as the heart of leadership. “Coaches are servants to their team,” he says, explaining that he carries this servant-leader mindset into his work at CommUnityCare. He strives to be a supportive coach to his team, helping them grow and succeed in their roles. This commitment to empowering others reflects Roberts’ enduring dedication to service, which he brings to both his military and civilian life.

Misty Bowyer-Mugica, Care Model Medical Assistant Instructor

The strength that Misty Bowyer-Mugica discovered during her time as a combat medic in the U.S. Army has become her foundation as a healthcare professional at CommUnityCare Health Centers.

“Serving in the Army taught me how strong I truly am,” Bowyer-Mugica recalls. The hands-on medical experiences she gained as a combat medic equipped her with essential skills and resilience, which she now channels into her role as an instructor and caregiver.

Bowyer-Mugica’s passion for providing quality care and building lasting connections shines through in her work. She has become a trusted presence in clinical settings, known for her attention to detail and her dedication to excellent care.

“I know that when people see me in their clinical site, they can count on the work I do being done properly and with great quality,” Bowyer-Mugica says.

Her commitment to her “work family” reflects the bonds she has created with both patients and colleagues, embodying the strength and reliability that have marked her journey from military service to healthcare.

Kevin Schrank, Director of Clinical Services

After more than 20 years of service in the Air National Guard, Kevin Schrank reflects on the support he received from his family and colleagues, which enabled him to serve with commitment both at home and abroad.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve, thanks to the incredible support from both my family and my work family,” Schrank says, acknowledging the care teams in Pflugerville and the admin teams at Kramer for their assistance during his deployments.

Schrank’s experience in the military instilled in him the Air Force’s core value of “Service Before Self,” a principle that resonates deeply with his work at CommUnityCare. His dedication to serving others is part of a lifelong mission to make a positive impact.

“Many of us are drawn to the work we do at CommUnityCare as part of our personal missions to serve others,” he reflects.

Honoring Service in Every Form

Each of these veteran employees brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and a strong commitment to serving others. Their military backgrounds have shaped their approach to healthcare, reinforcing our mission to provide compassionate care to our communities. This Veterans Day, we are proud to celebrate all of our veteran staff members.

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CommUnityCare’s Role in Building a Stronger Safety Net for Travis County

Established in 2003, CommUnityCare Health Centers last year served 1 in 11 Travis County residents. For many low-income adults it is their ONLY way to access affordable health care. Until recently, CommUnityCare has been described by Central Health as an enterprise partner, trusted ally or other such language expressing a partnership.

While Central Health is the grantee and together with CommUnityCare they both form the health center, the relationship is complex and unique. Unlike other FQHCs in Travis County, CommUnityCare is a 501(c)3 non-profit that shares the health center status with Central Health in a symbiotic relationship. Together, they share resources and responsibilities in operating the system. There are few of these in the country, and this system has worked well. Watch this video to learn how CommUnityCare Health Centers is a longstanding health equity success story for Travis County.

In recent weeks, statements have been made in the media and in public regarding CommUnityCare’s work. Below is a response from Interim CEO to those statements.

Statement from CommUnityCare Interim CEO on Central Health Video

“I did not approve the contents of the video released by Central Health CEO, Dr. Patrick Lee. In fact, I objected to its release when I was made aware of its contents. The video erroneously suggests that I, as interim CEO, support Dr. Lee’s stance on what has unfortunately become a public dispute over the establishment and implementation of the public health center model and its requirements.

The video also insinuates that CommUnityCare has not followed legal agreements, that CommUnityCare is part of Central Health without recognizing the non-profit status of the CommUnityCare Board of Directors (which serves as the governing board of the health center) or the co-applicant relationship arrangement between Central Health and the CommUnityCare Board. It also alleges that CommUnityCare and its leaders have not been transparent.

We have consistently reinforced to both Central Health and the community since September 4, 2024, that while we remain flexible and open to discussing an evolution to our relationship, we do not appreciate actions that undermine the CommUnityCare board.

At CommUnityCare, the responsibility and standing of our entity and our board has been celebrated and lauded by federal regulators for years. We have led our organization with the highest level of competence and compliance. To say otherwise is a disservice to the hard work our organization has put forth in this community. 

The last few weeks have been disorienting as Central Health has not only put the CEO on leave without the participation of the CommUnityCare board, but continues to sow confusion with videos, public statements and events suggesting agreement where agreement does not exist.”

Nicholas Yagoda, MD

Interim Chief Executive Officer

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Empowering Central Texas Communities: CommUnityCare Health Centers Helps Families Prepare for a Healthy School Year

The CommUnityCare Back to School Events, held in celebration of National Health Center Week, were an overwhelming success this year. 

These annual events have become a cornerstone of our commitment to supporting Central Texas families as they prepare for the upcoming school year. By offering free backpacks, essential school supplies, vaccines, and valuable community resources, CommUnityCare Health Centers aims to ease the financial burden on families and ensure that students are well-prepared and healthy as they return to the classroom. 

As the new school year begins in our communities, we’re thrilled to announce the impact we made during these events. Over two weekends, an impressive 1,186 backpacks filled with school supplies were distributed to students, providing them with the tools they need to succeed. In addition, 912 vaccines were administered ensuring that students are protected against preventable diseases and ready to start the school year in good health. 

 

For the first time, CommUnityCare Health Centers was proud to offer Back to School Events at three of its health centers.  

North Central Health Center 

  • Vaccines Administered: 431  
  • Backpacks Distributed: 460 

Pflugerville Health Center 

  • Vaccines Administered: 180  
  • Backpacks Distributed: 190 

Southeast Health and Wellness Center 

  • Vaccines Administered: 301  
  • Backpacks Distributed: 536

 

National Health Center Week is a time to recognize and celebrate the vital role that community health centers like CommUnityCare play in providing accessible, high-quality healthcare to underserved populations.  

“This week highlights the importance of health centers in promoting wellness, reducing health disparities, and addressing the social determinants of health that can impact the overall well-being of individuals and families,” said Karla Rivera, Community Development Manager. “Our Back to School Events are a key part of this mission, as they allow us to engage directly with the community and offer support where it is needed most. By addressing these broader issues, we strive to create a more equitable and supportive environment for all students.” 

These events were a true community effort, and they would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of our incredible employees, partners and volunteers. Their unwavering commitment to our community played a vital role in making these events a success. From organizing logistics to handing out supplies and administering vaccines, every contribution made a difference. 

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed their time, energy, and resources to ensure that our Back to School Events made a positive impact on so many families. Together, we’re helping to build a healthier, stronger community, one family at a time. As we look ahead to the future, we remain committed to supporting our community and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive. 

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CommUnityCare Health Centers Recognized as “LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer” by Human Rights Campaign Foundation 

CommUnityCare Health Centers proudly announces its recognition as an “LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer” by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRC). The designation was awarded in the 16th annual Healthcare Equality Index (HEI), released this week. A record 1,065 healthcare organizations participated in the 2024 HEI survey and scoring process, with 462 receiving the prestigious “LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer” distinction. 

“We are honored to receive the ‘LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer’ designation from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation,” said Jaeson Fournier, President and CEO of CommUnityCare Health Centers. “At CommUnityCare, we are dedicated to providing inclusive healthcare services to all members of the LGBTQ+ community. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ patients and their loved ones. As we celebrate this achievement, we remain steadfast in our mission to eliminate disparities and ensure equitable access to healthcare for the communities we serve.” 

CommUnityCare Health Centers has long been a champion for individuals who have historically lacked access to a medical home by fostering inclusive health spaces tailored to the needs of the diverse communities served in Central Texas. During its HEI journey, CommUnityCare thoroughly reviewed and revised policies, procedures, and practices related to both LGBTQ+ patients and staff. 

To ensure that every aspect of the care experience is inclusive and mindful of the unique health challenges of LGBTQ+ community members, CommUnityCare formalized practices around demographic data collection, including gender identity and sexual orientation. This allows for accurate assessment of health disparities and ensures that patients receive a positive, affirming experience with healthcare providers who respect their preferred name and pronouns. 

As a 2024 Top Workplace USA awardee, CommUnityCare Health Centers remains committed to cultivating a safe and inviting workplace. The organization reviewed and revised its HR-related policies, including benefits, leave, and workplace safety. Additionally, CommUnityCare created a comprehensive guide for employees seeking support during their gender-affirming journey, ensuring company policies are cognizant of the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ employees and their loved ones. 

This recognition by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation solidifies CommUnityCare Health Centers’ dedication to providing equitable healthcare services and creating a safe environment for LGBTQ+ patients and staff. The organization remains focused on delivering fully inclusive care and eliminating disparities in the communities it serves. 

  

About CommUnityCare Health Centers 

Central Texas Community Health Centers, dba CommUnityCare Health Centers is a 501.c.3 tax-exempt charitable corporation operating a network of twenty-eight federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in Central Texas. Our mission is to strengthen the health and well-being of the communities we serve. CommUnityCare Health Center services are available regardless of insurance status or household income. For more information visit communitycaretx.org. 

  

About the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Healthcare Equality Index 

The Healthcare Equality Index is an annual survey conducted by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation to evaluate and recognize healthcare facilities that demonstrate a commitment to equitable and inclusive care for LGBTQ+ patients and staff. For more information, visit hrc.org/resources/healthcare-equality-index. 

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Celebrating Nurses’ Week: Honoring the Pillars of Healthcare

Each year from May 6th to May 12th, we observe Nurses’ Week, a time dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of nurses across the nation. The theme chosen by the American Nurses Association for 2024, “Nurses Make the Difference,” aptly highlights the critical role nurses play in enhancing our lives through various capacities.
 
At CommUnityCare Health Centers, this theme resonates profoundly as it reflects the broad spectrum of essential services our nurses provide. Their roles extend beyond traditional care to include health promotion, education, disease prevention, emergency response, and advocacy for health equity—particularly for vulnerable populations.
 
This year is especially significant as it marks the 22nd consecutive year that nurses have been named the most honest and ethical professionals in the Gallup poll. Such recognition underscores the trust and respect that nurses command in our society.
 
Nurses’ Week also provides an opportunity to celebrate the historical achievements within the nursing profession. One notable figure is Brigadier General Hazel Johnson-Brown, a trailblazer who became the first Black female general and the first Black chief of the United States Army Nurse Corps. Despite encountering racial barriers in the 1940s, she pursued her passion for nursing and later made significant contributions to the field, including her role as the director of the Walter Reed Army Medical Center and her impactful work at George Mason University, where she helped establish the Center for Health Policy, Research, and Ethics.
 
Brigadier General Johnson-Brown’s legacy continued beyond her passing in 2011, with the U.S. House of Representatives honoring her with a Joint Resolution for her dedication to the nursing profession and the U.S. Army.
 
As we celebrate Nurses’ Week, let us extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the nurses at CommUnityCare, whose daily commitment and dedication reflect why they remain the most trusted professionals. To my colleagues, I urge you to take a moment this week to express your appreciation for the nurses’ tireless efforts in advancing care and services for our organization and community. Their dedication not only supports the health of individuals but also strengthens the entire healthcare system, proving that indeed, “Nurses Make the Difference.”

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Opioid Overdose Surge in Austin: Safety Tips and Resources

In the last few days, Austin has faced an alarming spike in opioid overdoses, with more than 50 cases reported across the area, including eight deaths. This surge has prompted a staggering 1000% increase in overdose emergency calls in one day. Early investigations point to the presence of high potency synthetic opioids (HPSOs), such as fentanyl, in substances being sold illegally as benzodiazepines like Valium, Klonopin and Xanax. Additionally, there are concerns about HPSO contamination of synthetic cannabinoids (“K2 or Spice”) and stimulants like amphetamines, cocaine, and methamphetamine. 

Whether you or someone you know is using these substances, it’s important to understand the fundamentals of overdose prevention and know where to find resources for assistance. 

“While this surge has thus far been limited to adults, it is important for families and communities to talk across all age groups about ways to stay safe. In this environment, experimentation can be deadly,” said Dr. Nicholas Yagoda, Chief Medical Officer for CommUnityCare. “The victims this week span all demographics – age, housing status, gender, race, ethnicity, and geography. Our entire community is at risk.” 

Here are some essential tips to help keep yourself and others safe:

  1. Don’t Use Alone: If possible, avoid using substances alone. Having someone with you can provide crucial support in case of an overdose. Consider reaching out to the Overdose Prevention Hotline at 1-800-972-0590 or using the Brave App for additional assistance.
  2. Start Low, Go Slow: When using substances, start with a small dose and gradually increase if necessary. This can help reduce the risk of overdose.
  3. Stagger Doses: If you’re using with a friend, consider staggering your doses. This means taking turns and giving each other time between doses to monitor for any adverse reactions.
  4. Avoid Mixing with Other Downers: Mixing substances like opioids with alcohol or other depressants can increase the risk of overdose. Stick to one substance at a time and avoid combining them.
  5. Be Cautious After a Break: If you haven’t used substances for a few days or more, be extra careful when starting again. Your tolerance may have decreased, increasing the risk of overdose.
  6. Use Fentanyl Test Strips: These strips can help identify the presence of fentanyl in substances, allowing you to make informed decisions about use.
  7. Carry Naloxone: Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. Make sure to always carry it with you and learn how to use it effectively.
  8. Access Naloxone: Naloxone is available for free at Narcan in Case of Emergency (NICE) vending machines located at various locations across Austin. Additionally, with a MAP card, you can obtain naloxone for free at any HEB or CommUnityCare pharmacy in Travis County.
  9. Seek Help: If you or someone you know is struggling with drug use, don’t hesitate to seek help. The CommUnityCare Addiction Medicine Clinic is available to provide support and assistance. You can call them at 512-978-9401 or visit the Southeast Health and Wellness Center during walk-in hours from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m., Monday through Friday.

In these challenging times, it’s important for us to come together as a community and support each other. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, we can help prevent overdoses and save lives. Remember, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. 

Stay safe, Austin. 

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Black History Month: Celebrating CommUnityCare Clinic at Black Men’s Health Clinic 

The partnership between CommUnityCare Health Centers and Black Men’s Health Clinic (BMHC) was birthed in 2022, out of a mutual commitment to increase access to healthcare in a setting that best meets the needs of men of color. Since the partnership was established, BMHC and CommUnityCare Health Centers have diligently worked to fulfill the promise to the community to create culturally appropriate pathways to health care to address long-standing health disparities plaguing Black Men and all men of color. 

“At CommUnityCare Health Centers, our mission is to serve and uplift communities of color, directly confronting institutional biases and racism,” said Jaeson Fournier, President and CEO. “In 2023, 86.2% of our patients identified as racial or ethnic minorities, underscoring our commitment to tackling health inequities head-on.”  

Fournier further emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships, particularly highlighting the collaboration with the Black Men’s Health Clinic (BMHC). “This partnership is vital to our efforts in achieving health equity. It enables us to address the specific health disparities faced by men of color, ensuring they receive the targeted care they need. Our work with the BMHC is a clear example of our commitment to fostering a healthcare system that is equitable and inclusive for all and our commitment to working with partners that share this commitment, like the BMHC.” 

In just short of two years, effective, unique outreach strategies have been developed to connect with Black men where they live, work, play and pray.  

“This strategy of community outreach and engagement bridges collaboration among churches, schools, partners, nonprofits, hospitals, primary and secondary educational institutions, and other advocacy organizations,” said Larry Wallace Sr., Founder of Black Men’s Health Clinic.  “This approach has proven to be effective in reaching our targeted population.” 

CommUnityCare Health Centers aligns with BMHC in the work to address health equity concerns by raising awareness of existing inequities in the health care system. Wallace Sr. shares that these inequities can be triggered by prejudice, institutional racism, or unintentional cultural differences that do not cultivate cultural sensitivity.  

“The funding from Central Health and the partnership with CommUnityCare Health Centers is invaluable,” added Wallace Sr.  “Their support helps us provide critical clinical services including primary care and mental health for our targeted population. CommUnityCare leadership has exemplified what it means to be culturally sensitive, for the greater good of our entire community, demonstrated through their support of Black Men’s Health Clinic. We are grateful for this priceless partnership.” 

Black Men’s Health Clinic Recognition 

As a result of the recent work, BMHC has received several meaningful recognitions, including a proposition from the Mayor and City of Austin during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and was named and featured as the Community Partner of the Month by CBS Austin-Telemundo in February of this year.  

A message from Black Men’s Health Clinic: As we move forward, BMHC remains committed to reversing long-standing and traditional practices and systems which perpetuate physical, emotional, and psychological distress, and negatively impacts life expectancy and the quality of life for Black men, men of color, their immediate families, and those with extenuating circumstances. Black Men’s Health Clinic serves as a beacon of hope and restoration for all men of color, fostering “Care You Can Trust”.   

2024 FEATURED VIDEOS 

BMHC Signature Video and Testimonials 

SUBSCRIBE to BMHC’s Weekly Newsletter on the website: blackmenshealthclinic.org 

CONNECT with BMHC on Social Media 

 

 

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CommUnityCare Health Centers Working to Change the Lives of Patients Experiencing Homelessness 

It’s Friday morning, Monick Hamlin is trailed down the hall at Southeast Health and Wellness Clinic by her colleagues Dr. Mike Stefanowicz and Esther Verges. All three load up the CommUnityCare Street Medicine van with their work gear, medical supplies, and other basic essentials to start their day helping those experiencing homelessness in Austin.  

“The van is our office and clinic, all in one,” joked Hamlin, a Medical Assistant and Community Health Worker for the CommUnityCare Street Medicine Team. 

The first stop is a parking lot in downtown Austin, where the team encounters an older gentleman experiencing a new cough and shoulder pain. This is only the first of many stops throughout the day to help anyone facing barriers and unable to access healthcare at one of the 28 CommUnityCare Health Centers across Travis and Williamson County.  

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people experiencing homelessness often face higher rates of poor health outcomes than people with housing.

“You and I are very capable of driving our cars, going to our appointments, picking up our prescriptions because we have the capabilities to do that. Our friends and neighbors out here on the streets don’t have that luxury. So, what we have been able to do is meet our patients where they are at,” added Hamlin. “For those living on the street, it’s an everyday struggle. It’s a struggle from addiction, mental health and lack of support. Anywhere we can fill the gaps is what we try to do.” 

In 2022, CommUnityCare Health Centers served 2,920 homeless patients, that is according to the Health Center Program Uniform Data System (UDS) Data Overview. Preliminary UDS data shows CommUnityCare Health Centers exponentially increased that number serving a total number of 4,765 homeless patients in 2023. 

The CommUnityCare Street Medicine Team is just one of the teams that make up the Health Care for the Homeless continuum of care service line. The Street Medicine Team provides primary health care services to unsheltered people experiencing homelessness, wherever they are. The team visits areas across North, East, Central and South Austin throughout the week to provide services. 

Across downtown Austin, the CommUnityCare Mobile Health team has set up a healthcare base at Sunrise Community Church located along Menchaca Road. The CommUnityCare Mobile Health Team offers health care services in on-site community locations for individuals who are or have experienced homelessness. This is done in partnership with community-based organizations by setting up a temporary clinic in their location. 

“I think the regularity of Sunrise and CommUnityCare together has been what has made this work. Them [patients] knowing there is going to be someone, having the assurance that someone is going to be here is what works. When you work in homeless services predictability and regularity is one of the most important things you can bring to the table,” said Mark Hilbelink, Sunrise Community Church Homeless Navigation Center Executive Director. “In the chaotic life of someone experiencing homelessness, it creates a stable foundation for them to start working on some of things they need to work on.”

Sitting in the pews of Sunrise Community Church and waiting to see his CommUnityCare healthcare provider is Roy Miller an Austin unsheltered resident, and a patient at CommUnityCare Health Centers who is experiencing homelessness. 

“Every day I look up and think, alright, I’m going to be okay. Whereas at one point I thought, I guess this is where it ends,” said Miller. “These services have blessed me beyond belief.” 

Miller describes an easy life growing up, born into a wealthy Texas family, living out his dream of being a rodeo cowboy for 20 years, going to school for theatre, and the stability of a trust fund.  

“I’m no longer trust fund Roy,” he says. “I would use [drugs], go to treatment centers and I did this for years. Until one day, I became homeless, and I didn’t know what to do. I’m slowly working my way out of this.” 

“Healthcare is a human right,” said Regina Evidente, Nurse Practitioner for the CommUnityCare Mobile Health Team. “We want to be able to provide them with a space where they feel safe and not judged. I tell patients all the time we’re here to support them in however that looks for them.” 

Also, part of the healthcare for the homeless services are the Austin Resource Center for the Homeless (ARCH) Clinic, the Care Connections Clinic, and the mobile, medical, and mental health (M3) team.  

The ARCH Clinic provides primary medical care to people experiencing homelessness. CommUnityCare services are located inside the ARCH Shelter. The CommUnityCare Care Connections Clinic is where patients experiencing homelessness are encouraged to access services directly at this site without a referral.