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.