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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, putting unvaccinated and under-vaccinated individuals at serious risk. Please review the measles vaccine guidance below.

MMR Vaccine Now Available at H-E-B Pharmacies for MAP, MAP Basic, and SFS Patients

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 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.  

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How CommUnityCare Health Centers is Helping Mothers Thrive Under Medicaid’s Postpartum Expansion

Access to quality care during and after pregnancy is critical for the wellbeing of both mothers and their babies. Historically, Medicaid coverage for postpartum care ended just 60 days after birth, leaving many mothers without necessary follow-up care. Nearly one year ago, the state of Texas took a significant step toward supporting maternal health by extending Medicaid postpartum coverage from 60 days to one year. This change, which went into effect on March 1, 2024, under House Bill 12, has allowed more mothers to access essential healthcare services, particularly those in vulnerable communities.  

“Expanding Medicaid up to one year postpartum allows us to better provide continuous care for our mothers,” said Lynce Espinoza, OBGYN Care Coordinator Supervisor at CommUnityCare Health Centers. “So many mothers experience postpartum depression, high blood pressure complications from a difficult delivery, diabetes, and problems with breastfeeding. Beyond medical concerns, they also have to juggle other children in the home, financial stressors, and in some cases, extended NICU stays for their newborns. Limiting access to medical care and mental health support can really impact a new mother’s well-being.” 

The CommUnityCare OB Care Coordinator team plays a crucial role in ensuring that women receive the care they need before, during, and after pregnancy.  

“One of the things our team does is reengage mothers into postpartum care by scheduling their postpartum appointments before they are even discharged from the hospital. We also assist in scheduling their baby’s first appointment and connect them with community resources,” added Espinoza.  

By addressing the social determinants of health—factors like transportation, housing, and access to nutritious food—CommUnityCare Health Centers helps mothers not just survive but thrive.  

For Sandy Rodriguez, an Austin resident and longtime CommUnityCare patient, the support she’s received over the years has been invaluable. “They have a wonderful group of people working at CommUnityCare Health Centers, and I love them so much. Thanks to them, I have my four little bundles of joy,” she says with gratitude.  

Rodriguez, now a mother of four, has relied on the CommUnityCare OB Care Coordinator team throughout each of her pregnancies. Her most pregnancy was met with complications, navigating preeclampsia complications and her baby spending time in the NICU for several weeks.  

“I have nothing but good things to say because all these years that I’ve been with them, anytime I needed something for myself or my kids, all it took was a phone call or a message, and I always got a response back,” Rodriguez shares. “It helps you a lot because it makes you feel that you’re not alone. You have somebody there. When everything feels dark, they remind you that it’s not.” 

The expansion of Medicaid postpartum coverage in Texas has made a tangible difference in the lives of countless women and families, especially within vulnerable populations who often face barriers when accessing quality care. Health outcomes such as maternal mental health conditions and mortality rates remain pressing concerns in the state of Texas. Expanding coverage is a strategic step in early identification potentially reducing economic and personal impacts.  

Looking ahead, providers at CommUnityCare Health Center remain committed to ensuring that every mother receives the care and resources she needs to thrive beyond childbirth. 

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Honoring Black History Month at CommUnityCare Health Centers  

At CommUnityCare Health Centers, we recognize the invaluable contributions of our diverse team members who help shape and strengthen the care that we provide to our communities. This Black History Month, we are proud to spotlight three remarkable employees and their heritage and dedication to health equity.  

We also celebrate all the Black professionals at CommUnityCare Health Centers who dedicate their talents and passion to advancing health equity. 

Brandon Altillo, MD, MPH

Physician, Internal Medicine | 2.5 years at CommUnityCare Health Centers

Dr. Altillo’s Afro-Caribbean heritage has shaped his approach to life and medicine, instilling resilience, practicality, and a strong sense of family. His upbringing in a culture that embraces adaptability in the face of adversity has influenced his perspective as a physician.  

He sees Black History Month as an opportunity to continuously learn and celebrate the achievements of Black individuals while acknowledging systemic barriers.  

“There is such a rich and vibrant history of the Black experience, and I love that there are always more achievements to celebrate and more historical figures to admire,” he adds. “Even though it is critically important to recognize the historic and systemic disadvantages Black people have faced and continue to face, it is also so uplifting to have time dedicated to celebrate the strength, resilience, and brilliance of Black people throughout our history. 

Altillo is a leader in the CommUnityCare Internal Medicine Residency Program and says he has first-hand experience watching how CommUnityCare Health Centers is equipping the future generations.  

“The CommUnityCare team plays such a central role in increasing access to care and reducing health disparities in Austin, especially the black community,” he says.”I know that they are  training the next health care leaders to continue this important work providing person-centered, equity-minded, culturally sensitive care, while also reinventing the systems that prevent some from achieving their full potential of health and wellness.” 

Shondrea Harroon, PhD

Associate Director, Patient Access and Financial Eligibility | 3 years at CommUnityCare Health Centers

“Cultural heritage is more than just a part of our background; it profoundly influences who we are and how we relate to the world,” said Shondrea Harroon. “As an African American, I have found that my journey has been deeply shaped by the rich traditions and stories passed down through generations.” 

For Haroon, her African American heritage has instilled in her a deep sense of resilience, cultural pride, and commitment to community. Black History Month holds a special place in her heart, as a time of reflection and celebration for the achievements and struggles of those who have come before us. 

Haroon also shares her dedication for creating an inclusive environment at CommUnityCare Health Centers, mentoring future leaders, and advocating for health equity.  

“The work that I do at CommUnityCare Health Centers takes on special significance during Black History Month. It is an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations” added Haroon. “By embracing our unique backgrounds, we can foster a more inclusive and welcoming society. I encourage everyone to participate in this important dialogue, not just during Black History Month, but throughout the entire year.” 

 

Dominique Holman

Black Men’s Health Clinic Outreach Program Manager | 5 years at CommUnityCare Health Centers

Dominique Holman’s passion for community outreach is deeply rooted in the wisdom and resilience passed down by her grandparents and great aunt. Black History Month holds personal significance for her—not only as a time to reflect on the fight for civil rights but also because she celebrates her birthday this month.  

“Although February is the shortest month, it gives us time to reflect on those before us who fought for the rights that I have today,” she says.  

Her work in the CommUnityCare organization, particularly at the Black Men’s Health Clinic, is driven by her commitment to breaking generational health disparities and creating a safe space where Black men can seek care without stigma.  

“Black Men’s Health Clinic is a safe space where men can be themselves and open up without judgment. Our team is here, ready to support and guide all men through their healthcare journey.” Holman believes in setting the tone for compassionate, patient-centered care, ensuring every individual is treated with dignity and respect.

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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.