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CommUnityCare Health Centers Earns National Recognition for Quality, Access and Innovation 

CommUnityCare Health Centers has received three Community Health Quality Recognition (CHQR) badges from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). The awards highlight the organization’s ongoing commitment to expanding access and improving health outcomes for Central Texans. 

CommUnityCare Health Centers earned the Silver Badge, Improving Access to Care Badge, and Advancing Health IT for Quality Badge for 2024. These distinctions recognize health centers nationwide that meet or exceed performance benchmarks in areas such as quality of care, patient access, and the use of technology to improve outcomes. 

The recognition comes as the CommUnityCare organization continues to grow and serve more patients than ever before. In 2024, the health system provided care for 143,421 patients, compared to 134,180 patients in 2023, an increase of more than 9,000 individuals. Nearly 97 percent of CommUnityCare patients live at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level, underscoring the critical role the organization plays in ensuring access to care for vulnerable populations. 

For a full breakdown of the Travis County Healthcare District / Central Texas Community Health Center HRSA data and performance metrics, visit HRSA’s program data page.

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CommUnityCare Back-to-School Events Provide Vaccines, Backpacks to Hundreds of Families 

Hundreds of Central Texas students and their families started the school year healthier and better prepared thanks to the CommUnityCare Health Centers back-to-school events, held in honor of National Health Center Week (Aug 3-9). CommUnityCare Health Centers provided vaccines, backpacks filled with school supplies and other health resources to ensure students could begin the year with confidence. 

This year, a total of 777 vaccinations were administered, protecting children against preventable diseases. In addition, 1,600 backpacks went home with 596 families, helping students feel ready and equipped for the classroom.

 

Bastrop ISD: Cedar Creek High School Back to School Bash  
Backpacks: 901 

Del Valle Health and Wellness Center 
Vaccines: 215 

Pflugerville Health Center
Vaccines: 176 
Backpacks: 197 

 North Central Health Central:  
Vaccines: 386 
Backpacks: 502 

 

This year, CommUnityCare was proud to expand its reach further into the eastern crescent, a historically underserved area which has long faced barriers to access health care. By hosting events in the Del Valle and Bastrop communities, CommUnityCare Health Centers was able to connect families with essential services that can have a lasting impact on a child’s health, academic success and overall well-being. As part of this effort, a new partnership with Bastrop ISD allowed CommUnityCare to engage directly with families through the Cedar Creek High School Back to School Bash, distributing backpacks and school supplies while providing information on no-cost vaccinations at the newly opened in 2025 Del Valle Health and Wellness Center. This initiative not only helps families prepare for the school year but also strengthens trust and relationships in areas where access to health and educational resources has historically been limited. 

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.   

These events were a true testament to the power of community. They came to life thanks to the dedication of CommUnityCare staff, volunteers and partners, whose hard work ensured that every detail—from organizing logistics to distributing backpacks and administering vaccines—ran smoothly. Every effort, big or small, made a meaningful difference for the families served. 

As the new school year begins, CommUnityCare remains committed to supporting underserved families throughout Central Texas. 

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CommUnityCare Pilots New Check-In Kiosks to Improve Patient Experience 

CommUnityCare Health Centers has launched a pilot program introducing EPIC Welcome Kiosks, giving patients a faster, more convenient way to check in for appointments. 

The kiosks allow patients to skip the front desk line and complete the same check-in tasks they would normally do with a registration clerk or through MyChart. From confirming appointments to verifying personal details, patients can now manage their check-in process with just a few taps. 

The first kiosks went live at the CommUnityCare East Austin Health Center and Del Valle Health and Wellness Center in June 2025. Additional locations will be phased in over time as the process is refined, with more clinics expected to adopt the technology later this summer and into the fall. 

EPIC Welcome Kiosk deployments have been shown to reduce patient wait times, improve data accuracy, ease front desk congestion and protect privacy.  

“We hope patients become as comfortable using the kiosks as they are using MyChart,” said Tony Struthers, Director of Special Projects. “As we continue the rollout of our welcome kiosks, front desk staff and community health works will be available to help guide patients through the new check-in process.”  

As patients become more familiar with the kiosks, CommUnityCare operations team anticipates a quicker check-in process and improved clinic flow. The $97,388 pilot investment includes hardware, installation, training, and support to ensure a smooth transition. 

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Do Not Close the Doors on Community Health Centers 

By Nicholas Yagoda, MD, CEO for CommUnityCare Health Centers

As CEO of one of the nation’s largest community health centers — and as a doctor who has spent my career working to advance healthcare access for all — I am deeply concerned by the new guidance from the Department of Health and Human Services barring people living in the U.S. without legal documents from accessing taxpayer-funded programs, including the federal Health Center Program.

On its face, this might sound like standard policy. Most taxpayer-funded benefits exclude undocumented individuals. But for nearly 30 years, community health centers have been a deliberate and important exception. And for good reason: preventive and primary care for everyone not only saves lives but also keeps costs down for our communities and the health system as a whole.

Health centers were created to serve anyone in need, regardless of race, gender, income, or immigration status. After all, illness and disease know no boundaries. That principle has never been in doubt — until now.

Last year, CommUnityCare in Austin cared for more than 140,000 patients. Across the U.S., community health centers served 32.5 million people. Most were uninsured or covered by Medicaid. We are the front line of prevention. We keep people healthy and nurture thriving communities.

Removing this carve-out will not solve the national debate over immigration or save taxpayers money. Rather it will make people sicker, pushing them out of primary care and into the emergency rooms, while driving up costs for hospitals and taxpayers. It will increase the spread of preventable disease at a time when we’re still recovering from COVID and battling the largest measles outbreak in 33 years. It will leave us further behind other high-income nations around the globe in key health outcomes. This new HHS guidance expressly directs the medical community to abandon our sacred commitment to do no harm.

And it will hurt our communities. Undocumented residents are not outsiders; they are part of our social fabric, contributing vital services to strengthen our community. Many live in families that include U.S. citizens. Denying them access to basic care is not just inhumane — it’s shortsighted and dangerous for our public and economic health.

The health center carve-out existed for a reason. It recognized a simple truth: caring for each one of us leaves us all safer, stronger, and more secure. That truth has not changed. HHS should reverse this guidance immediately. Congress should make it crystal clear that community health centers must remain open to everyone — our nation’s health depends on it.

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The official guidance provided by HHS is posted here. The guidance provides a 30-day public comment period. Comments must be submitted to HHS by 11:59 PM EDT on August 13th, 2025. They can be submitted via the Federal Register here. 

CommUnityCare follows statutory and regulatory requirements and until further notice, in the setting of conflicting interpretation, will continue to serve all patients in need of healthcare services, regardless of immigration status.

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CommUnityCare Health Centers’ Tara Trower Appointed to Sendero Health Plans Board of Directors 

Austin, TX— CommUnityCare Health Centers is proud to announce that Tara Trower, the organization’s Chief Strategy Officer and Interim Chief Operating Officer, has been appointed to the Board of Directors for Sendero Health Plans, a local nonprofit health insurance company and member of the Central Health Enterprise. 

“Tara’s appointment represents a significant step forward in advancing systemwide alignment to better serve our communities,” said Dr. Nicholas Yagoda, CommUnityCare Health Centers Chief Executive Officer and Central Health Executive Vice President of Ambulatory Services. “Her deep operational insight and strategic acumen will bring valuable perspective to Sendero’s work and will ultimately benefit the patients we all serve.” 

Sendero Health Plans provides health insurance coverage to Central Texans, including individuals who are medically complex, low-income, or who face barriers to accessing care. The organization plays a key role in expanding access to affordable health coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace. 

With Trower serving on the board, CommUnityCare Health Centers will gain valuable insight into local health insurance strategy and operations. This will strengthen the organization’s ability to advocate for patients and respond to changes in coverage, cost, and access to care. Her appointment reinforces the organization’s commitment to building a more equitable and sustainable healthcare system in Travis County. 

“Every decision we make about coverage and care has a direct impact on the lives of the people we serve,” said Trower. “I’m honored to represent community health centers in this work and committed to ensuring that patients’ voices remain central as we build a more connected, equitable healthcare system in Travis County.” 

 

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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 https://communitycaretx.org. 

 

 

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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.