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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.

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CommUnityCare Employee Honored with Statewide Award 

Austin, TX – The Texas Association of Community Health Centers (TACHC), a private, not-for-profit membership organization dedicated to advancing equitable access to quality health care across Texas, proudly presented Audrey Straus, Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C), Director of Employee Wellness and Health Services, with the 2024 TACHC Emerging Leader Award.  

This prestigious award recognizes exceptional Texas health center staff for their outstanding contributions to enhancing patient and staff experiences, a crucial element of the value-based care model. 

“I feel incredibly humbled to receive this recognition and to be in the company of people like Dr. Mike Stefanowicz who is such an effective leader, improving the lives of our patients, teams, and community. While I’m technically receiving this award, it’s really a reflection of the tremendous work that CommUnityCare Health Centers has undertaken to support our workforce and our community — Nothing I do is done alone,” said Straus. “We are one team, and each of us plays an important role in lifting one another to sustain the work we do every day, providing high-quality, compassionate care for our neighbors. I’m endlessly grateful to have had the opportunity to grow, to lead, and to learn; without the advocacy of those before and around me, I would not have the opportunities I do to support those around me who share the same vision of health equity and social justice in Central Texas.” 

The TACHC Emerging Leader Award celebrates rising stars in Texas health centers, fostering new leadership to advance quality, community-centered health care.  

Straus is one of seven community health center staff members to receive the 2024 Emerging Leader Award. Straus proudly accepted the award at the TACHC Annual Conference in Fort Worth on October 19, 2024. 

Pictured left to right: Carlos Gormaz, CommUnityCare Board Member; Audrey Straus, CommUnityCare Director of Employee Wellness and Health Services; Dr. Nicholas Yagoda, CommUnityCare Interim CEO; Barbara Shirley, CommUnityCare Board Member

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About TACHC 
The Texas Association of Community Health Centers (TACHC) represents community health centers across Texas, supporting their mission to deliver high-quality, comprehensive primary and preventive health care services to underserved communities. 

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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 twenty-nine federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in Central Texas. Our mission is to strengthen the health and well-being of the communities we serve. CommUnityCare services are available regardless of insurance status and discounted based on financial means for those with incomes less than 200% of the federal poverty level. For more information visit https://communitycaretx.org.  

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

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

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

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

Statement from CommUnityCare Interim CEO on Central Health Video

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

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

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

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

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

Nicholas Yagoda, MD

Interim Chief Executive Officer

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CommUnityCare Health Centers Earns Prestigious Community Health Quality Recognition Badge

CommUnityCare Health Centers is thrilled to announce that it has been recognized with the Community Health Quality Recognition (CHQR) Silver badge for 2024, placing it in the top 20th percentile for clinical quality care across fellow Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and look-alikes nationwide. This recognition underscores the commitment to delivery of excellent healthcare services for the un- and underinsured in Central Texas. 

The CHQR badges are awarded to health centers that have demonstrated outstanding achievements in several critical areas including access, quality, health equity and health information technology.  

“At CommUnityCare, we are committed to providing the highest quality of care to all communities we serve. This dedication is central to our mission of advancing health equity and social justice. This national award reflects the passion, dedication, and vision of our teams at CommUnityCare Health Centers, who continually strive for improvement,” said Dr. Nicholas Yagoda, CommUnityCare Health Centers Interim President and CEO. “As we celebrate this recognition, we remain steadfast in our belief that every member of our community is entitled to the highest quality healthcare.” 

This honor is based on the data from the 2023 Uniform Data System (UDS) reporting period. In 2023, CommUnityCare Health Centers served 134,180 total patients. Of these, 97% from households earning at or Below 200% of Federal Poverty Guideline. Additionally, 87% of patients identified as racial and/or ethnic minority patients, 60% were best served in a language other than English and 51% were uninsured. 

To earn a Health Center Quality Leader (HCQL) badge, health centers must achieve outstanding performance in clinical quality measures (CQMs), including cancer screenings, immunizations, prenatal care, chronic disease management, and others. These awards highlight the exemplary work produced within the community health center model, the nation’s most effective demonstration of high-value, equitable primary healthcare.