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CommUnityCare Health Centers Celebrates Dr. John Weems as Recipient of the Ruth M. Bain Young Physician Award 

CommUnityCare Health Centers is proud to celebrate Dr. John Weems, Associate Director of Addiction Medicine, for receiving the prestigious Ruth M. Bain Young Physician Award by the Travis County Medical Society (TCMS). This accolade recognizes physicians 40 years or younger, or with fewer than eight years in practice, who are admired by their colleagues as model physicians. Dr. Weems’ unwavering dedication to addiction medicine, his transformative impact on patients, and his leadership in addressing one of today’s most pressing public health crises make him exceptionally deserving of this honor. 

“I’m honored to receive the Ruth M. Bain Young Award. This recognition reflects the support of my incredible colleagues at CommUnityCare and Dell Medical School, our partners, and the resilience of the patients we serve. I am especially grateful for TCMS’ recognition of the importance of addiction medicine and its role in addressing a stigmatized disease in the face of an overdose crisis. This work is a privilege, and we are proud to serve our communities,” said Dr. Weems.  

 

A Physician Who Leads with Compassion, Innovation and Vision 

When history reflects on medicine’s response to great public health crises—from the advent of antibiotics to the fight against AIDS and the COVID-19 pandemic—it highlights visionary clinicians who lead with courage and compassion. Dr. Weems stands tall among these leaders. As an internal medicine physician and addiction medicine specialist, he is deeply committed to advancing equitable access to care for multi-marginalized communities. 

As Associate Director of Addiction Medicine, Dr. Weems is instrumental in increasing access to high-quality addiction medicine services. Beyond his work at CommUnityCare Health Centers, he serves as faculty at Dell Medical School and as the lead subject matter expert for the SHOUT Texas program (Support Hospital Opioid Use Disorder Treatment). 

 

Tackling the Opioid Epidemic 

The opioid epidemic is one of the defining public health challenges of our time, touching lives both professionally and personally. In Travis County, where overdose deaths have surged in recent years, Dr. Weems has been at the forefront of efforts to combat this crisis. Through his leadership, CommUnityCare Health Centers has championed a “no-wrong-door” approach, offering a whole-person model of care that prioritizes the dignity and lived experiences of patients. Dr. Weems’ innovative strategies address not only the medical aspects of addiction but also the stigma, social determinants, and moral injury often faced by individuals living with substance use disorders. 

During Austin’s fentanyl poisonings this past April, which claimed dozens of lives, Dr. Weems was part of a rapid community response that drove widespread naloxone distribution, undoubtedly saving lives. He has also led multiple town halls for the Travis County Medical Society to educate the community about life-saving medications for substance use disorders and to advocate for systemic changes. 

 

A Leader Known for Authenticity and Advocacy 

“John has championed multidisciplinary solutions to address addiction, extending far beyond medicine to tackle stigma and social drivers of health. He has cultivated a sense of joy and belonging among individuals who have often been cast out by our healthcare system. We are incredibly proud of his impact,” praised Dr. Nicholas Yagoda, Interim President and CEO of CommUnityCare Health Centers.  

Dr. Weems’ authenticity sets him apart. Whether speaking with c-suite executives, city leaders, or patients, he brings the same level of respect, empathy, and humility to every interaction. His colleagues describe him as a reliable friend, a devoted husband and father, and a clinician who inspires those around him to rise to the occasion. 

Dr. Mike Stefanowicz, Director of Intensive Outpatient Care at CommUnityCare, echoed the sentiment, adding, “Someday, when we look back at whether medicine truly met its moment in the face of the opioid epidemic, I am confident John will be among those to whom we attribute our collective success.” 

 

Dr. Weems’ accomplishments remind us of the profound difference one person can make in addressing systemic issues. His work exemplifies the mission of CommUnityCare Health Centers of strengthening the health and wellbeing of the communities it serves.  

Congratulations, Dr. Weems, on this well-deserved honor! To read his feature in the Travis County Medical Society Journal, visit [page14] HERE. 

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Christmas and New Year Holiday Closures

As the holiday season approaches, we want to keep you informed about our adjusted hours to ensure you can plan your visits accordingly. Please see the following schedule for our clinic and office closures during Christmas and New Year’s.

2024 Christmas Closures: 

  • Christmas Eve – Tuesday, December 24th
    • All sites will close at 12:00 PM, with the exception of Hancock Walk-In Care

    • Hancock Walk-In Care will remain open with normal operating hours.

  • Christmas Day – Wednesday, December 25th
    • All sites will be closed, with the exception of Hancock Walk-In Care.

    • Hancock Walk-In Care will be open with adjusted hours and will close at 4:00 PM.

  • Thursday, December 26th
    • All sites will reopen for normal business hours.

2024/2025 New Year Closures: 

  • New Year’s Eve – Tuesday, December 31st

    • All sites will be open with normal business hours.

  • New Year’s Day – Wednesday, January 1st
    • All sites will be closed, with the exception of Hancock Walk-In Care. 

    • Hancock Walk-In Care will remain open with normal operating hours. 

  • Thursday, January 2nd
    • All sites will reopen for normal business hours.

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CommUnityCare Health Centers Recognized as a Greater Austin Top Workplace for 2024 

CommUnityCare Health Centers is proud to announce it has been named a Top Workplaces 2024 winner by the Austin American-Statesman. This recognition is based solely on anonymous employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey conducted by Energage, an employee engagement technology partner. The survey evaluates key themes such as employees feeling respected and supported, empowered to execute, and enabled to grow. 

“We are deeply honored to receive this award, as it reflects the voices and experiences of our incredible team,” said Dr. Nicholas Yagoda, Interim President and CEO of CommUnityCare Health Centers. “This recognition underscores our commitment to fostering a workplace where employees feel valued, empowered, and connected to our mission of delivering compassionate, high-quality care to our community.” 

This achievement highlights the dedication of the CommUnityCare staff in creating an environment where employees can thrive and deliver exceptional care to patients. 

“Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies,” said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. “That’s something to be proud of. In today’s market, leaders must ensure they’re allowing employees to have a voice and be heard. That’s paramount. Top Workplaces do this, and it pays dividends.” 

 

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CommUnityCare Statement Regarding CEO Termination: Reaffirming Commitment to Patient-Centered Care

We learned today that Central Health has terminated the employment of Jaeson Fournier.  

I, along with the CommUnityCare board, remain deeply frustrated by the events of the last few months as it relates to the employment of its Chief Executive Officer.   

The purpose of the patient-led board requirement for community health centers is to ensure that the operations and health care delivery are directed by the patients we serve, and that includes direct oversight of the CommUnityCare CEO by its board.   

The CommUnityCare Board did not approve of this action.    

We are profoundly grateful for Jaeson Fournier’s seven years of strong leadership, which has dramatically expanded access to primary care to those who otherwise would not receive care. Under his watch, CommUnityCare has increased the number of patients served by 45% to more than 143,000 unique individuals each year. That represents what is projected to be more than a half million patient visits this year for un- and underinsured Central Texans, most of whom are low-income Travis County residents.   

CommUnityCare remains committed to building a stronger safety healthcare system for Travis County, in partnership with Central Health as the grantee for the public health center. We believe that the patient-centered public health center model is the best vehicle to deliver equitable primary care services in a county with a vast array of needs facing its un- and under-insured residents. We cannot deliver on that promise without the collaborative partnership of Central Health and the support of the Travis County taxpayers.   

CommUnityCare’s model of care is to put patients first. That is true in the exam room and at every level of leadership. We will continue to do so, as we work to strengthen our partnership with Central Health, so we can continue to improve the health and well-being  of the communities we are so privileged to serve. 

 

Sincerely, 

Dr. Nicholas Yagoda 

Interim President and CEO 

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CommUnityCare Health Centers Expands Telehealth Services Creating Greater Access

 CommUnityCare Health Centers is expanding its telehealth services, offering patients greater flexibility and addressing common barriers to care. For many, accessing care can be complicated by transportation challenges, work schedules or family responsibilities. By CommUnityCare Health Centers expanding its telehealth services, patients can eliminate some of these obstacles and allow them to choose how they want to receive care. 

“We recognize that an in-person visit can sometimes create the inability for them to make it to their appointments,” said Rosa De La Torre, CommUnityCare Associate Chief Medical Officer. “The beauty of telehealth is that we can see patients, as long as they are in the state of Texas, anywhere they want to be whether that be during their break at work or from the comfort of their home so they can continue to receive the care that they need.” 

The expanded telehealth access features a dedicated team of three providers and supporting staff members, offering services that cater to a wide range of needs, including pediatric care, chronic disease management, and acute evaluations. A fourth provider will join the new team at the beginning of 2025. Furthermore, new patient appointments will become readily available, reducing wait times for appointments.  

Additionally, telehealth appointments are integrated into patients’ broader care plans. Providers ensure continuity by sharing visit details with primary care doctors, maintaining a seamless connection between telehealth and in-person services. 

“If you see me as a telehealth provider, it won’t disrupt your relationship with your primary care doctor,” explained Dr. Roberto Rodriguez, CommUnityCare Telehealth Pediatrician. “I share the details of each visit with your regular provider to keep them in the loop about your health.” 

CommUnityCare Health Centers aims to reach 30,000 unique telehealth patient encounters in fiscal year 2025.  

The expanded telehealth program is a testament to the commitment CommUnityCare has to patient-centered care. By addressing barriers and offering more ways to connect with healthcare providers, the organization is paving the way for a healthier, more accessible future. To learn more about CommUnityCare telehealth services or to schedule an appointment, visit our telehealth services webpage. 

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Get Your Free Flu Vaccine at Participating H-E-B Pharmacies

CommUnityCare Health Centers is excited to announce a new partnership with H-E-B pharmacies to provide free flu vaccines to its patients. This flu season, protecting your health is more accessible than ever. You can now get your no-cost flu vaccine at select H-E-B Pharmacy locations, making it easier to stay healthy and protected. This promotion ends Wednesday, December 4, 2024. 

How It Works

CommUnityCare patients can visit participating H-E-B Pharmacies to receive their flu vaccine at no cost. Vaccines will be administered on a first-come, first-served basis, and are available while supplies last. No appointment is needed.

Participating H-E-B Pharmacies

Please visit any of these participating H-E-B Pharmacy locations to receive your free flu vaccine:

  • H-E-B Pharmacy #14, 5401 SOUTH FM 1626, KYLE
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #31, 12860 N HIGHWAY 183, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #68, 5800 WEST SLAUGHTER LANE, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #91, 2508 E RIVERSIDE DR, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #161, 7112 ED BLUESTEIN, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #183, 9414 NORTH LAMAR, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #202, 5808 BURNET RD, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #218, 12407 N MOPAC EXPRESSWAY, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #227, 2110 NEW SLAUGHTER LANE, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #229, 6607 IH35 S, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #236, 1434 WELLS BRANCH PKWY, PFLUGERVILLE
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #243, 641 E HOPKINS LANE, SAN MARCOS
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #265, 170 E WHITESTONE BLVD, CEDAR PARK
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #269, 10710 RESEARCH BLVD STE 200, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #388, 6001 WEST PARMER LANE, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #404, 12400 STATE HWY 71 WEST STE 100, VILLAGE OF BEE CAVES
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #425, 1000 E 41ST STREET, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #428, 6900 BRODIE LANE, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #445, 403 S COLORADO ST, LOCKHART
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #465, 2701 E 7TH STREET, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #475, 1080 WEST HWY 290, ELGIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #476, 500 CANYON RIDGE DRIVE, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #477, 15300 S IH 35, BUDA
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #479, 201 NORTH FM 685, PFLUGERVILLE
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #495, 603-A LOUIS HENNA, ROUND ROCK
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #582, 104 HASLER BLVD, BASTROP
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #591, 1700 EAST PALM VALLEY BLVD, ROUND ROCK
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #592, 651 N US HWY 183, LEANDER
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #639, 1801 EAST 51ST STREET, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #659, 14028 NORTH US 183, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #710, 8801 S. CONGRESS, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #714, 2000 RANCH ROAD 620 SOUTH STE A, LAKEWAY
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #735, 1503 HWY 1431 WEST, MARBLE FALLS
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #755, 2301 CONGRESS AVE, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #765, 7901 WEST HWY 290, AUSTIN
  • H-E-B Pharmacy #773, 1601 TRINITY ST BLDG A, AUSTIN

Why Get Vaccinated?

The flu vaccine is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones from the seasonal flu. Vaccination helps reduce the risk of flu-related complications, hospitalizations, and protects those around you, especially individuals who are more vulnerable.

Visit Today!

Take advantage of this opportunity to stay flu-free this season. Simply head to one of the participating H-E-B locations for your free flu vaccine, courtesy of CommUnityCare Health Centers and H-E-B Pharmacies.

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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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Important Update for CommUnityCare Health Centers Patients 

Starting November 1, Executive Order GA-46 requires public hospitals to collect immigration status information from patients. However, this rule does not apply to CommUnityCare Health Centers or Carousel Pediatrics.

Key Points:

  • We do not collect immigration status information before providing care.
  • Our commitment to offering you safe and comfortable healthcare remains unchanged.
  • We encourage you to attend your scheduled appointments and participate in financial aid screenings.

If you have any questions about your rights as a patient, please visit Patient Rights and Responsibilities.

Thank you for trusting CommUnityCare Health Centers with your health.