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Empowering Moms, Transforming Care: Join Us for the CenteringPregnancy© Launch Event

Expecting a baby is a personal journey, one that is made easier with support, community and trusted care. That is why CommUnityCare Health Centers is excited to launch CenteringPregnancy© at Southeast Health & Wellness Center, a powerful program designed to transform the prenatal experience for mothers.

We invite the community to celebrate the launch of this innovative program.

Event details:

  • What: CenteringPregnancy© Launch Event
  • When: Thursday, July 17, 2025 | 9 to 11:30 a.m.
  • Where: Southeast Health and Wellness Center | Community Room

  The event will include:

  • A look inside how CenteringPregnancy© works
  • Stories from moms who’ve already benefited from the program
  • Introductions to the care team and program facilitators
  • Community connection, and more!

CenteringPregnancy© is a group-based prenatal care model that brings together pregnant patients with similar due dates for shared learning, health assessments and open conversation. The approach is designed to improve both health outcomes and the overall pregnancy experience.

The program offers expecting mothers more time with their care team and encourages peer support, especially meaningful for patients without nearby family or friends. To learn more about Centering© programs offered at CommUnityCare Health Centers, visit CenteringPregnancy© or CenteringParenting©.

 

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Cristie Pellegrini Named Chief Pharmacy Officer at CommUnityCare Health Centers 

CommUnityCare Health Centers is excited to announce Cristie Pellegrini has been promoted to Chief Pharmacy Officer, where she will lead the strategic, clinical, financial, and operational oversight of the organization’s pharmacy services. 

Pellegrini brings more than 20 years of experience in pharmacy operations and healthcare administration. In her new role, she will continue to focus on expanding medication access, improving affordability, and advancing pharmacy programs that support whole-person care. 

Since joining CommUnityCare Health Centers, Pellegrini has served as Vice President of Pharmacy Services. Under her leadership, the organization has quadrupled the number of pharmacy access points across Travis County and significantly enhanced medication management for tens of thousands of patients. She has also spearheaded efforts to optimize the 340B drug pricing program, integrate pharmacy services into clinical care, and create policies that remove barriers and support the health center’s long-term sustainability. 

As CommUnityCare services continue to grow, expanding pharmacy services remains a top priority to improve access and deliver high-quality, coordinated care. To learn more about our pharmacy services and locations, CLICK HERE.  

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CommUnityCare Health Centers Board Names Dr. Nicholas Yagoda as Permanent CEO

Austin, TX — The CommUnityCare Board of Directors has appointed Dr. Nicholas Yagoda as permanent Chief Executive Officer (CEO), elevating him from the interim position he has held since September 2024.

 During his tenure as interim CEO, Dr. Yagoda guided CommUnityCare Health Centers through a pivotal period of growth and alignment. His accomplishments include implementing a comprehensive strategic plan, deepening collaboration with Central Health and Sendero Health Plans, and reinforcing organizational priorities around access, health equity, and workforce development.

“Over the last nine months, Dr. Yagoda has shown steady, values-driven leadership,” said Guy Swenson, Chair of the CommUnityCare Board. “This decision reflects our confidence in his ability to lead not only CommUnityCare Health Centers, but to play a critical role in unifying the system as a whole.”

Concurrently, in recognition of Dr. Yagoda’s leadership and vision, Central Health CEO Dr. Pat Lee has appointed Dr. Yagoda as Executive Vice President of Ambulatory Services — a newly created role designed to enhance integration across the Central Health system. In this dual capacity, Dr. Yagoda will lead efforts to streamline outpatient operations and build a more cohesive, patient-centered healthcare network for Travis County residents with low income and without insurance.

Health System Integration and Innovation 

Together, CommUnityCare and Central Health are moving toward a more unified, patient-centered model — one grounded in shared values, aligned leadership, and a commitment to expanding access to those who need it most. The two organizations form one of the nation’s largest community health center systems in the country, providing more than a half million patient visits in 2024 – the vast majority to Travis County residents with incomes less than 200% of the federal poverty level.

“Nick has earned the trust and respect of our teams, our partners, and the communities we serve,” said Dr. Pat Lee, CEO of Central Health. “His appointment to this dual role reflects our shared commitment to building a health care system that works better for everyone. I’m excited to continue working alongside him as we transform care delivery from the ground up.”

 
A Vision for Community-Centered Care

Dr. Yagoda brings extensive clinical and leadership experience to his expanded role. A board-certified family physician, he previously served as Chief Medical Officer at CommUnityCare Health Centers for three years, where he championed clinical excellence and provider development.

“It’s an honor to step into this role and advance the mission of health equity alongside the exceptional teams at CommUnityCare and Central Health,” said Dr. Yagoda. “This new alignment is a rare opportunity to build a more connected, community-centered system of care. With shared purpose, strong partnerships, and unwavering focus on the people we serve, we are poised to set a national standard for what community-driven care can achieve.”

For questions, contact Priscilla Estrada at Priscilla.Estrada@communitycaretx.org.

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About CommUnityCare Health Centers

Central Texas Community Health Centers, dba CommUnityCare is a 501.c.3 tax-exempt charitable corporation operating a network of 30+ federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in Central Texas. Our mission is to strengthen the health and well-being of the communities we serve. The services at CommUnityCare Health Centers are available regardless of insurance status or household income. For more information, please visit communitycaretx.org.

About Central Health

Created by voters in 2004, Central Health is Travis County’s hospital district. Central Health provides care and coverage for about 1 in 8 Travis County residents — more than 170,000 people with low income. Guided by a strategic plan, developed with extensive community input and adopted in 2022, Central Health is investing more than $800 million to create a high-functioning, comprehensive, and equitable safety-net system in Travis County. This vision reflects the commitment of the Central Health system, which includes CommUnityCare Health Centers and Sendero Health Plans, a nonprofit insurance company, along with hundreds of community partners, to the residents of Travis County.

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How CommUnityCare Pharmacy Services Are Expanding to Better Serve Our Communities 

CommUnityCare Health Centers is committed to improving the health and well-being of its communities by making health care more accessible and affordable to those who need it most. As the health care landscape continues to evolve, so does the commitment to meeting the growing needs of patients. 

Meeting Patients Where They Are 

In early 2025, CommUnityCare Health Centers began services in the Del Valle Health and Wellness Center, a state-of-the-art facility bringing much-needed primary care services to an area historically underserved. The new health center also brought the first CommUnityCare Pharmacy equipped with drive-thru services. 

“Del Valle pharmacy is an exciting new opening for us. It’s in an area known as a pharmacy desert,” shared Nazley Mohammadi, CommUnityCare Director of Outpatient Pharmacy Services. “There aren’t any pharmacies that serve the population out here, so we’re able to provide drive-thru services, mail order services, and courier services in an area that was underserved – now, we’re meeting that need.” 

“As CommUnityCare Health Centers continues to grow with new clinic openings, expanding pharmacy services alongside them remains a top priority to ensure patients have convenient, affordable access to the medications they need. This new model reflects putting patient-first approach to care delivery, ensuring that barriers like transportation or time constraints do not stand in the way of better health. 

For patients like Cinthia Rivas, this convenience makes a world of difference. 

“I feel good because when I leave my appointment, the pharmacy is right here. I don’t have to get in my car and go somewhere else to find my medication or wait at another pharmacy. I can do it all right here, request it, wait if I need to, and then head straight home.” 

Beyond the Counter: Comprehensive Pharmacy Services for Whole-Person Care 

CommUnityCare Health Centers offers a comprehensive approach to meet the prescription medication needs of its patients. Our team of specially trained pharmacists works closely with patients and providers to deliver the best total patient care, supporting improved health outcomes and quality of life. 

Whether it’s filling a prescription, managing chronic conditions, or navigating insurance coverage, our pharmacy team is here to remove barriers and support each patient’s health journey.  

“CommUnityCare offers pharmacy services, and I like to look at it as two different branches,” explained Mohammadi. “Our clinical pharmacy services are located within the medical side of our clinics, helping with medication adherence, therapy management, chronic disease management, and even lifestyle recommendations. Our outpatient pharmacy services, on the other hand, are where prescriptions are filled and picked up.” 

This integration ensures patients have seamless support. Clinical pharmacists collaborate closely with providers, helping manage complex cases, adjust medications, and provide patient assistance programs that reduce medication costs. 

The Lifeline of 340B: Making Medications Affordable for Our Patients

Affordable prescriptions for patients are made possible with the assistance of the 340B Drug Pricing Program, a vital federal program that allows community health centers like CommUnityCare to purchase medications at discounted prices.  

“The 340B program allows our patients, who qualify, to purchase medications at a reduced price,” Mohammadi noted. “The savings from those discounted prices help fund many of our non-revenue generating programs, like healthcare for the homeless, co-pay reductions, and even letting patients put medications on an account if they can’t pay right away.” 

For patients like Rivas, CommUnityCare Health Centers offering a variety of services and programs is life-changing. 

“The truth is it really is a privilege to have this type of medical insurance, that provides. It’s a huge help for many people. Even for me, it’s a lot of help because I don’t have the money to afford some medications or some type of specialists, and thanks to [CommUnityCare] I can cover those needs,” said Rivas.  

Advocating for Our Patients’ Health

As healthcare policies continue to shift, CommUnityCare Health Centers remains steadfast in advocacy efforts to protect programs like 340B. The organization works alongside national and local partners to ensure policymakers understand the real-life impact these programs have on the patients and families we serve. 

“Our goal is simple,” added Mohammadi. “We want to meet people where they need us, when they need us. Whether they’re our existing patients or not, if there’s a need in the community, we want to be there.” 

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CommUnityCare Health Centers Announces Key Leadership Transitions to Support Future Growth 

CommUnityCare Health Centers is proud to announce a series of leadership transitions that reflect the organization’s value-oriented growth and continued commitment to delivering high-quality, compassionate care to the communities it serves. These changes come at a time of opportunity, reflection and forward momentum, allowing a realignment of leadership to further support our teams, enhance operations, and strengthen the care experience for our patients. 

“CommUnityCare will always be focused on what matters most—our mission, our people, and our patients. As the landscape of healthcare delivery and financing shifts, we are evolving to ensure our impact only accelerates. Key to this evolution are vital leadership changes that open the door to new collaboration, fresh ideas, and strategic progress,” said CommUnityCare Interim President and CEO, Dr. Nick Yagoda. “Our future holds extraordinary promise, and we believe these new appointments position us to move confidently toward a more integrated and impactful model of care delivery.” 

Leadership Transitions 

Nancy Ban, CommUnityCare Chief Operating Officer, will be stepping down to take on a new role as CEO of a Federally Qualified Health Center on the East Coast. We thank Nancy for her years of extraordinary service and leadership and wish her all the best in this next exciting chapter. 

To ensure continuity and stability during this transition, Tara Trower, CommUnityCare Chief Strategy Officer, will serve as Interim Chief Operating Officer. Trower brings a collaborative, mission-driven approach to operational leadership and will work closely with our executive team to ensure clarity, coordination, and continued focus on delivering excellent care. She will be supported by Kim Heinonen, Chief Transformation Officer for Central Health, who will serve in an advisory capacity. 

 

We are also pleased to announce the following leadership appointments: 

Asad Asghar has been promoted to Vice President of Business Transformation, where he will lead key efforts to improve operational efficiency and drive innovation across our health centers. 

 

October Ambrose, Vice President of People Partnerships & Engagement at Central Health, will officially join the CommUnityCare Senior Leadership Team, bringing her expertise in team engagement, culture, and workforce development. 

 

Dr. Rosa De La Torre has been promoted to Chief Population Health and Integration Officer; a new role focused on advancing value-based care strategies and aligning care delivery with our mission to improve health outcomes across Central Texas. 

 

 

Dr. Susan Dubois is serving as Interim Chief Medical Officer following Dr. Nicholas Yagoda’s appointment as Interim President and CEO. The search for a permanent CEO is already underway in collaboration with Central Health. 

 

To see a full list of our leadership and their bios, click here.

At CommUnityCare Health Centers, these changes represent more than new titles—they reflect a renewed energy and vision for the future. Together, we are building a stronger system of care, one where our teams are empowered, our patients are supported, and our mission is fulfilled at every level. 

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CommUnityCare Health Centers Outlines Vision in New 2025-2027 Strategic Plan 

 

CommUnityCare Health Centers believes everyone deserves access to high-quality, compassionate healthcare regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. As the organization continues to grow and adapt to the changing needs of the communities it serves, CommUnityCare Health Centers is proud to share its 2025–2027 Strategic Plan. 

This new plan is a blueprint for building a healthier, more equitable future across Central Texas. It reflects months of listening, learning, and planning with our staff, patients, partners and community stakeholders. It also comes at a time of transition, as the organization navigates leadership changes and an evolving healthcare landscape. 

Despite these shifts, the CommUnityCare mission remains unchanged which is to strengthen the health and well-being of the communities it serves. To bring that vision to life, CommUnityCare Health Centers is focusing its efforts in five key areas: 

 

  1. Health Equity – Expanding access through targeted initiatives like increased telehealth services and new clinic sites in underserved areas. 
  2. Quality – Striving for top-decile performance in national benchmarks and closing disparities in chronic and sexual health outcomes. 
  3. Innovation – Advancing financial sustainability by embracing value-based care and digital health tools.
  4. Workforce – Investing in our team through retention, training, and pipeline partnerships to support a culturally competent healthcare workforce.
  5. Community Engagement – Strengthening trust, visibility, and collaboration with our partners and the communities we serve. 

Today, CommUnityCare Health Centers stands as the second-largest community health system in Texas and one of the largest in the nation. The organization currently serves more than 143,000 patients annually across 30+ locations, with more than half of its patients uninsured or covered by the Travis County Medical Assistance Program (MAP). As patient needs grow and demographics shift, the plan emphasizes flexibility, data-driven strategies and long-term sustainability.  

We invite you to explore the three-year full strategic plan and join CommUnityCare Health Centers on the journey toward a healthier Central Texas. [Read the Full 2025–2027 Strategic Plan (PDF)] 

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CommUnityCare Leader Recognized for Outstanding Social Impact 

CommUnityCare Health Centers is excited to share that its Chief Strategy Officer and Interim Chief Operating Officer, Tara Trower, has been honored by Austin Woman Magazine for her exceptional work in social impact.  

“I’m honored by this recognition — both personally and on behalf of CommUnityCare,” said Trower. 

Selected from a pool of more than 250 nominees across a wide range of categories, Trower was recognized for her unwavering commitment to health equity and her leadership in advancing the CommUnityCare Health Centers mission throughout Central Texas. The Social Impact Award celebrates individuals and organizations that embed social good into the very core of their values, strategies, and daily operations.  

“Federally Qualified Health Centers — like CommUnityCare — exist across the country. More than 1,300 of us. Our mission is simple but profound: to provide high-quality primary and preventive care to people who might otherwise go without because of where they live, how much money they make or the color of their skin,” said Trower. “CommUnityCare, in partnership with Central Health, is one of the nation’s largest FQHCs. Last year alone, we served more than 140,000 Central Texans across nearly half a million visits.” 

Trower’s recognition not only highlights her dedication but also shines a light on the critical role that community health centers play in building a healthier, more equitable future that transforms lives.  

“Let me be clear: healthcare — especially nonprofit healthcare for underserved communities — is not work for the faint of heart. But it is work that transforms lives. And it’s been a privilege to be surrounded by such extraordinary leaders — most of them women,” added Trower. 

Trower has served as the CommUnityCare Health Centers Chief Strategy Officer since 2021 and most recently, now serves as its Interim Chief Operating Officer.  

 

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CommUnityCare Health Centers Begins Services at New Del Valle Health and Wellness Center

CommUnityCare Health Centers is excited to begin services at the new Central Health Del Valle Health & Wellness Center located at 7050 Elroy Rd, Del Valle, TX 78617. The new state of the art facility is designed to meet the growing health care needs of this historically underserved area.  

The new facility replaces the old Del Valle Health Center located at 3518 FM 973, Del Valle, TX 78617, and all existing appointments have now transitioned to the new location.  

CommUnityCare Health Centers is proud to offer comprehensive, patient-centered care for individuals and families. With expanded services and an upgraded space, the Del Valle Health & Wellness Center is built to improve access to essential healthcare services, reduce health disparities, and strengthen the well-being of the communities we serve. 

“At CommUnityCare Health Centers, we are growing to ensure no one in our community goes without the care they need and deserve,” said CommUnityCare Interim President and CEO, Dr. Nicholas Yagoda.

The Del Valle Health & Wellness Center is equipped to serve patients with a wide range of services, including: 

  • Primary care for children, adults, and seniors.
  • Adult & pediatric dental services to promote lifelong oral health.
  • 13 exam rooms + a dedicated procedure room for enhanced patient care.
  • A convenient drive-thru pharmacy for fast and easy medication access. 

“This expansion marks a significant milestone in advancing health equity for Del Valle residents, many of whom have long faced barriers to convenient, high-quality medical, dental, and pharmacy services,” add Yagoda. “By closing these persistent healthcare gaps, CommUnityCare and our partners at Central Health are laying the foundation for a healthier, more equitable future for Del Valle families.” 

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CommUnityCare Health Centers Addressing Measles Prevention

Measles is currently circulating at unprecedented levels in Texas and in the United States, putting unvaccinated and under-vaccinated individuals at serious risk. Please review the measles vaccine guidance below to remain informed on how you can protect yourself and your community. 

Where can I get vaccinated? 

There are several options available to get your MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) vaccine. CommUnityCare has MMR vaccines available for both adults and children.

Get Vaccinated with us at CommUnityCare

If you or your children are not vaccinated against measles, then make a telehealth visit with our CommUnityCare healthcare providers today to discuss your options around getting vaccinated. Our team can work with you to review your medical history and decide whether you may benefit from an MMR vaccine. Your healthcare team will then get you an appointment for MMR vaccine at a CommUnityCare clinic if needed. 

Visit us here for a telehealth appointment today.

If you are already a patient here at CommUnityCare then you may also choose to directly schedule with your healthcare provider at your medical home to discuss MMR vaccination in more detail. 

Get vaccinated at your local HEB Pharmacy in Travis County 

The MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) vaccine is now available at no cost for all MAP, MAP Basic, and SFS patients at participating H-E-B pharmacies.

  • Who’s eligible? Patients 14 years and older with MAP, MAP Basic, or SFS coverage
  • Cost: $0 copay
  • Where: H-E-B pharmacies

Parents with children younger than 14 are encouraged to reach out  to your healthcare provider to discuss MMR vaccination.

Schedule an appointment at an H-E-B pharmacy here. 

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

Measles is a highly contagious virus that is preventable in most people who are fully vaccinated. Generally, most people should receive two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine in their lifetime. This vaccine clinic is open to both adults and children who meet the current criteria for immunization. If you are unvaccinated or have only received one dose, you should get vaccinated to ensure full protection. Please note that if you do not meet the criteria for vaccination, you will not be eligible to receive a vaccine at this clinic. 

If you are unsure whether you or your children need an MMR vaccine, please review the latest vaccination guidance for adults and children or connect with a health care provider to discuss your options in more detail. 

English – Vaccine Guidance

Spanish – Vaccine Guidance 

Why Is Vaccination So Important? 

Measles is a highly contagious virus, spreading rapidly through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms appear 7 to 14 days after exposure including fever, cough, red/watery eyes, runny nose, and a rash. Measles can cause serious complications that could lead to pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death—especially in young children, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. If you believe you may have been exposed to measles, contact your healthcare provider and remain isolated at home otherwise. 

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CommUnityCare Health Centers Expands Access to Addiction Treatment Services  

In a step toward strengthening addiction treatment in Central Texas, CommUnityCare Health Centers is expanding efforts with its Wellness & Holistic Addiction Medicine (WHAM) program. The program is now offering services at the new Capital Plaza MAT Clinic. This new location is now open in Northern Travis County to meet the growing demand for comprehensive addiction care. The expansion further reinforces the CommUnityCare mission of strengthening the health and well-being of the communities it serves. 

“With rising rates of opioid use disorder and other substance use disorders, we recognized the urgency of improving care capacity and removing barriers to treatment,” said Dr. John Weems, Associate Director, Addiction Medicine. “This new site reflects our commitment to advancing health equity and addressing unmet needs.”  

The new Capital Plaza MAT Clinic is located at 5339 N IH 35 Suite 100 Austin, TX 78723. The new location opened in January 2025.  

A Holistic Approach to Addiction Medicine 

The CommUnityCare WHAM program provides a comprehensive range of services designed to support individuals at every stage of their recovery. Patients have access to FDA-approved medications for addiction treatment, counseling, case management, peer recovery support, and integrated psychiatric care. The clinic’s approach is rooted in both lived experience and best medical practices, ensuring patients receive evidence-based, compassionate care. 

“Our team works within the broader CommUnityCare community health mission, providing chronic and preventive care while linking patients with primary and specialty care,” Dr. Weems added. “We embrace harm reduction principles, welcoming patients whether they’re abstinent or actively using substances. This ensures they receive the support they need to achieve their health goals.” 

The WHAM program stands apart from other addiction treatments through its holistic and inclusive philosophy. By integrating addiction medicine with mental health and primary care services, the clinic is able to effectively address co-occurring conditions.  

“Humor, warmth, and genuine compassion are key to our program’s culture,” said Dr. Weems. “We want WHAM to be a place where healing truly feels possible.” 

Serving Underserved Communities 

The WHAM program is focused on serving individuals with substance use disorders, particularly those from marginalized and underserved communities. Many of its patients face additional challenges such as homelessness, systemic inequities, or involvement with the carceral system. The program is designed to be a safe, judgment-free space where anyone can seek care and improve their well-being. 

To reach high-risk populations, WHAM collaborates with CommUnityCare partners, including Intensive Outpatient Care clinics, the Central Health Vulnerable Populations Care programs, Austin-Travis County EMS, local hospitals, and community organizations. By building these relationships, CommUnityCare is able to identify and engage underserved populations more effectively. Additionally, educational campaigns are also a key part of its outreach, helping to reduce stigma and promote awareness of addiction as a treatable chronic medical condition.

The Future of Addiction Medicine 

In its first year, the CommUnityCare WHAM program aims to expand access to treatment for the community’s most vulnerable populations, improve patient retention and engagement, reduce overdose rates in the region and foster a culture of healing, trust, and even joy in the recovery journey. 

“By offering patient-centered care, we hope to enhance the quality of life for individuals and families while strengthening trust in our services,” said Dr. Weems. “Our new team members have infused WHAM with fresh energy and expertise, playing a pivotal role in launching our new clinic and expanding our impact.” 

With the launch of the expanded addiction treatment services, CommUnityCare Health Centers continues to push forward in its mission to remove barriers to addiction care and foster healthier communities. 

For more information about Wellness & Holistic Addiction Medicine services, CLICK HERE.