Since 1988, December 1 has been recognized as World AIDS Day. It’s a time for people to unite worldwide in the fight against HIV, show support for people living with HIV, and commemorate those special people in our lives who were taken away much too soon because of AIDS.

Community members and activists have done amazing work in the decades since the start of the HIV epidemic. At the same time, much work is left to do for a world without HIV.

Everyone deserves access to life-saving whole-person primary care, including sexual health care. Today, HIV is considered a chronic manageable condition, if people have access to the right tools and resources. Yet, the HIV epidemic rages on. In Texas, one in three people newly diagnosed with HIV identifies as black or African American. Two in five are Hispanic or Latino.

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically interrupted the world’s efforts to end HIV. Testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections had declined significantly since the start of the pandemic and many sexually transmitted infections are on the rise here in Texas.

At CommUnityCare’s David Powell Health Center patients receive inclusive, person-centered care that includes comprehensive sexual health care, PrEP, HIV testing and treatment. Regardless of who you are, who you love, where you come from, or what language you speak the care at CommUnityCare’s David Powell Health Center is both affirming and inclusive.

For more information visit https://www.davidpowellhealthcenter.org

.

Isaac Sanchez has been elected to serve on the CommUnityCare Board of Directors. Sanchez has a background in hotel management and is now retired. He is a proud member of the LGBTQIA community and has been actively involved in raising AIDS awareness. He joined Austin Pride in 2008 and has been serving as a co-chair since 2011. Sanchez also spends time lending support to the Austin International Drag Festival and the AIDS Candlelight Memorial Service. He also enjoys volunteering his photography skills to these organizations.

Sanchez is excited to serve on the board of directors to be an advocate for increasing access to health services.

Sanchez moved to Austin in 1997, originally from McAllen, Texas. He graduated from McAllen High School in 1975.

AUSTIN – CommUnityCare Health Centers, the second largest nonprofit community health center system in Texas, has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Ambulatory Care Accreditation by demonstrating continuous compliance with The Joint Commission’s performance standards. The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care.

CommUnityCare underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite review in July. During the visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with Ambulatory Care standards spanning several areas including environment of care, infection prevention and control, leadership, medication management, and rights and responsibilities of the individual.

The Joint Commission’s standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. They are informed by scientific literature and expert consensus to help health care organizations measure, assess, and improve performance. The surveyors also conducted onsite observations and interviews.

“As a private accreditor, The Joint Commission surveys health care organizations to protect the public by identifying deficiencies in care and working with those organizations to correct them as quickly and sustainably as possible,” says Mark Pelletier, RN, MS, chief operating officer, Accreditation and Certification Operations, and chief nursing executive, The Joint Commission. “We commend CommUnityCare for its continuous quality improvement efforts in patient safety and quality of care.”

The accreditation applies to CommUnityCare’s almost 30 health centers in Travis County and surrounding areas.

“Whether your income is in the highest bracket or the lowest, everyone wants to know they are receiving the highest quality and safest medical care at their doctor or dentist’s office,” said Jaeson Fournier, CEO of CommUnityCare. “That’s why The Joint Commission’s independent and rigorous review of our services is so important. It gives patients peace of mind and is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our clinicians, nurses, and care team members and demonstrates our commitment to continuously improving our health care services as we strive to achieve greater health equity for all, but especially for our low income and uninsured patients.”

Patients and community members can go online and download the quality report here.

Accreditation is required for hospitals that participate in federal health care programs and optional for community health centers.

As the largest safety net healthcare provider in the Austin region and one of the 1,373 federal Health Center Program Grantees nationwide, CommUnityCare sees 130,000 unique patients, representing 460,000 patient visits each year.

CommUnityCare’s David Powell Clinic, center of excellence for HIV care, also received a new certification by The Joint Committee as a Primary Care Medical Home, a designation that means a health institution focuses on the whole person and respects each patient’s needs, culture, and values. CommUnityCare anticipates seeking the PCMHC designation for all of its health centers.

“We provide communities traditionally left behind with inclusive, non-judgmental care– regardless of income,” Fournier said. “As importantly, we strive toward bringing health equity to these communities by knocking down traditional barriers, like race, ethnicity, and language.”

CommUnityCare announced today that Cristie Pellegrini, RPh, MHA, has been promoted to Vice President of Pharmacy Services and will serve on the senior executive team. Pellegrini will continue leading CommUnityCare’s pharmacy program, which includes oversight of the health system’s three pharmacy locations and medication management at its 28 clinics.

“Throughout her more than four years with CommUnityCare, Cristie has consistently enhanced our increased pharmacy services and programs with an eye to ensuring that our patients continue to access the life-sustaining medications they need,” said Jaeson Fournier, CEO of CommUnityCare Health Centers. “She has dedicated her career to serving the underserved community by increasing medication access and striving for health equity.”

Pellegrini has worked in the health center space for more than 20 years and is an expert in the federal 340B program to maximize patient access to affordable medications.

In her previous role as CommUnityCare’s Director of Pharmacy, Pellegrini added a generic price list option for patients, increased access by quadrupling the number of contracted pharmacy access points in Travis County and surrounding areas, added a new in-house pharmacy, and coordinated a diverse group of healthcare providers in drawing COVID-19 vaccines in support of large-scale vaccination events.

Pellegrini will continue to oversee the pharmacy team and Patient Assistance Program, as well as support CommUnityCare’s clinical pharmacist services including medication therapy management.

“CommUnityCare has grown substantially over the past five years in terms of our overall revenue and number of patients seen — now at more than 125,000,” said Fournier. “Cristie has been among those at the helm of this growth. I am looking forward to Cristie’s continued leadership in helping us achieve greater health equity a reality in Central Texas.”

She received her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy at Rutgers University and completed her Master of Healthcare Administration at the University of Southern California.

###

Tara Trower, chief strategy officer for CommUnityCare, recently sat on a panel focused on creating racial equity in the food system. The panel, “Nourishing Black Communities,” explored community-based commitments to providing nutritious foods and discussed how individuals can take steps to address barriers to quality food access.  

“As the affordability issue changes in Travis County, such as our Black and Brown communities moving further and further out, the transportation and time puzzle as connected to food is more imperative for us to solve,” said Trower. 

The panel, cosponsored by Umoja Food and the Black Healthcare and Medical Association, discussed the historic ways Black and Brown communities have been underserved, overlooked, and riddled with barriers and how these communities remain impacted in the present day.  

“I think the mistake that a lot of people make with our populations is that they are not interested in health, which couldn’t be further from the truth,” said Trower. “Really, it’s about the choices they need to make to survive.” 

Access to basic necessities varies across the country. Communities of color unfortunately often fall into geographical areas that experience a lack of access to grocery stores.  

“Here locally [in Austin] there’s one half of the city where there are probably 55 supermarket outlets and east of the interstate there are maybe five,” said Trower. “So, the question not only arises do ‘I have the money’ but do ‘I have the ability’ to get there on a regular basis. We have looked into models that provide food boxes during their visit to the doctor but that does not solve for the fresh produce.” 

CommUnityCare Health Centers served 125,278 patients in 2021, and 86% of those patients identified as racial or ethnic minorities. Ninety-six percent of patients fell at or below 200% of the federal poverty level guideline.  

To watch the full Nourishing Black Communities Roundtable Discussion with Umoja Food for Health, please visit https://umojasupply.com/.  

You may have heard mention in the local news or social media about young people in Central Texas overdosing on the drug fentanyl.

What you may not know is that many of the victims had no idea they were taking fentanyl, a tasteless opioid drug similar to morphine, but much more potent. Compared to other opioids, FENTANYL is particularly dangerous because it can be deadly in extremely small doses. How deadly? The amount of fentanyl that can balance on your pencil point can fatal and the drug can take many forms — pill, powder, patch, solid or liquid. There is no way to make sure fentanyl is evenly distributed, so each pill can be the one that causes an overdose.

In recent years, an increasing supply of illegal drugs combine fentanyl with other more well-known drugs, the ones that young people often experiment with at parties or in friend groups. Many individuals have no idea what they are consuming. It can be made to look like other well-known drugs such as OXYCODONE, PERCOCET, XANAX OR EVEN ADDERALL.

Some versions of the DRUG CAN RESEMBLE CANDY – think Sweet Tarts and other small, colorful candies — as a way to target teens and young adults. Physicians and school officials are asking for increased vigilance, especially as music festival season and Halloween approaches. Teens should never share medications, and even items that look like candy should be wrapped in known commercial packaging before consumption.

Last year in Travis County, 118 people died of fentanyl overdoses, and the vast majority were accidental. This year since June, four Hays County high school students have died of fentanyl-related overdoses. For reference, more people in Travis County died of drug overdoses in 2021 than died in traffic accidents, falls or drowning. The increase caused TRAVIS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS TO DECLARE the opioid problem in the county a public health emergency.

The Austin Independent School District is working on a plan and awareness campaign and student resource officer carry naloxone (Narcan), the drug that can neutralize the effects of an overdose to give time for someone to seek medical care. Other districts, including EANES and HAYS, have Narcan available in their school nurses offices.

Families who have reason to suspect that a loved one may be at risk for fentanyl overdose due to suspected or known drug use can access Narcan without a prescription at local pharmacies including Walgreens and CVS. Some providers, including COMMUNITYCARE HEALTH CENTERS, can provide Narcan to patient families and are working toward wider community distribution this Fall. Organizations in the state of Texas can obtain Naloxone at WWW.MORENARCANPLEASE.COM.

Additional safety tools include fentanyl test strips which detect this potentially fatal substance if used to lace or as a substitute for other drugs. However, these potentially lifesaving test strips are not yet available legally in Texas.

This VIDEO shows how to recognize and respond to these symptoms of overdose:

• Difficult or not able to awaken
• Slow or no breathing
• Unresponsive
• Bluish or pale lips and fingernails
• Limp body
• Pale or clammy skin
• Vomiting or foaming at the mouth

Please call 9-1-1 immediately, start giving rescue breaths, and administer Narcan, if available. For more information about how to combat fentanyl and opioid use in teens, or to access support and treatment options, call the CommUnityCare Addictions Recovery team at 512-978-9401 or visit WWW.SOBERAUSTIN.COM.

The deadline to register to vote in November’s election is quickly approaching. Eligible Texans will have the chance to cast their ballots for statewide races such as governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, as well as for their U.S. representatives, state senators, state representatives.

How do I register to vote? To register to vote in the State of Texas, you must fill out a voter registration application, print, sign, and mail it to your county’s voter registrar. You can also register to vote in person by visiting the voter registrar in your county.

You can check your voter registration status through My Voter Portal and find your poll location.

Who is on my ballot? The League of Women Voters Austin Area publishes an unbiased Voter Guide in multiple languages, both on paper and a digital version. The League will be publishing the 2022 version in the coming weeks.

Important Dates

• October 11, 2022 – Last day to register to vote
• October 24, 2022 – First day of in person early voting
• October 28, 2022 – Last day to apply for vote by mail ballot (Received, not postmarked)
• November 8, 2022 –Election Day

Make an informed vote. Your voice matters!

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government declared a public health emergency and has allowed you to continuously keep your Medicaid coverage since March of 2020, without having to reapply. This continuous coverage is expected to end this fall. You will need to submit a new Medicaid application for the State of Texas to determine if you are still eligible.

What you need to do

• Use the Medicaid benefits you have now.  Do not wait to go to the doctor or dentist.  It is unclear when the continuous Medicaid enrollment will end.  However, it is expected to end later this year.
• Make sure your address and contact information are updated/correct on your Medicaid account.
• If you receive a Medicaid renewal packet, DO NOT DELAY. Complete and return the packet today to avoid losing your Medicaid coverage.

The best way to complete your Medicaid renewal is online at YourTexasBenefits.com. (HHSC)

To check if it is time for you to renew your Medicaid coverage, log into your account on YourTexasBenefits.com Or call 2-1-1, choose your preferred language and select Option 2. (HHSC)

If your child is eligible for CHIP, your coverage will not change because of the end of continuous coverage. (HHSC)

For more information, visit THIS link.

CommUnityCare Health Centers has launched a new Doula Pilot Program to help support its Black patients through pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum.   

According to Texas Health and Human Resources in Central Texas, Black mothers rank the highest in maternal mortality and morbidity rates compared to other racial and ethnic groups. Various factors such as access to quality healthcare, underlying chronic conditions and implicit bias contribute to these disparities. 

CommUnityCare is dedicated to recognizing the inequities that persistently affect Black women. By partnering with Black Mamas ATX, CommUnityCare is able to launch a one-year pilot program to provide doula care to its Black patients.  

“I am thrilled that CommUnityCare has partnered with Black Mamas ATX and is taking the necessary steps towards improving the maternal outcomes for underserved populations in the clinical setting,” said Ebony Williams, Doula for CommUnityCare and Black Mamas ATX. “I believe that providing culturally congruent care/ doula support provides a safe space where Black birthing families can be seen, heard, educated and cared for. This type of equity and care is imperative to reducing the infant/maternal mortality rates amongst Black families.” 

CommUnityCare has hired Ebony Williams to become a part of the onsite care team. She will advocate for Black mothers to make informed decisions about their prenatal, birth and postpartum care resulting in better outcomes for mom and baby. The doula will also help families create birth plans and provide emotional and physical comfort throughout birth and postpartum.  

“I’m delighted about our collaboration with Black Mamas Doula ATX and the great work flourishing within our OB communities. We began this partnership over two years ago and we are ready to see the launch of our efforts. I am looking forward to seeing our continued growth with the expansion of this project,” said April Arriaga, CommUnityCare OBGYN Senior Practice Administrator. 

CommUnityCare is the largest community health system in Central Texas, with more than 27 locations that provide outpatient primary health care, women’s health, dental care, pediatric, specialty care, lab, radiology, mammography, pharmacy, and behavioral health services. CommUnityCare is committed to strengthening the health and wellbeing of the communities it serves.  

If you are a CommUnityCare patient, please speak with your OB provider about our doula services. If you are not a CommUnityCare patient, please contact Black Mamas ATX at blackmamasatx.com. 

AUSTIN — CommUnityCare Health Centers has chosen Yvonne Camarena to serve as its inaugural Chief Nursing Officer (CNO). The creation of the role is in recognition of the non-profit organization’s sizable growth as the largest community health system in Central Texas. Last year CommUnityCare served more than 125,000 patients with more than 400,000 plus dental and medical visits provided.

Camarena has served as CommUnityCare’s Chief Operating Officer (COO) since 2018 and as its director of nursing prior to taking that role.  As COO, Camarena shepherded multiple clinic expansions and openings and is currently supporting the development of four new clinics that are expected to open in 2023.

The new CNO role will allow CommUnityCare to better focus on its care management and enabling services, as well as strengthen its pipeline of nurses and medical assistants.  As CNO,  Camarena will also support the further development of CommUnityCare’s expanded patient-centered care model.

“Camarena is a solutions-focused nurse administrator with a comprehensive background in clinical, administrative, and quality fields,” said Chief Executive Officer Jaeson Fournier. “She is a tireless and dedicated leader and as CNO she will be directly involved with CommUnityCare’s evolution toward greater systems. Most importantly, she is a staunch patient advocate that strives to ensure our patients receive the care they need and deserve regardless of their income level or insurance status.”

Camarena’s commitment to serving Central Texas is long, including health care roles with the City of Austin, Austin Regional Clinic, Central Health and CommUnityCare spanning nearly three decades. She was also chief operating officer of Tiburcio Vasquez Health Center in Northern California from 2013 to 2016.

Camarena graduated from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (formally Pan American University) with an associate degree in nursing. She continued her education with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin, followed by a master’s degree in health care administration from Purdue University Global University.

She began her health care career as a nurse’s aide in an acute care hospital. Having begun with bedside care, she understands the importance of patient care at all service levels. She is passionate for the need to create a caring environment for patients and developing positive employee engagement.

“I’m looking forward to this opportunity to engage even more deeply in developing our care teams to best serve our patients’ needs,” Camarena said. “The key to expanding patient access is having well-trained teams, who can provide culturally sensitive and high-quality care that meets the needs of some of our most vulnerable populations.”

AUSTIN — CommUnityCare Health Centers, the largest community health system in Central Texas, has selected Nancy Ban to serve as its Chief Operating Officer. Ban comes to CommUnityCare with years of leadership experience in nonprofit health care systems in Massachusetts, Maine, and Colorado.

Ban will oversee daily business operations of CommUnityCare’s 27 health centers in and around Austin, as well as the management and growth of business units, including primary, pediatric, behavioral health, dental, and specialty care service lines. Last year, CommUnityCare saw 125,000 patients representing more than 400,000 visits.

“Nancy’s expertise, leadership, and dedication in nonprofit healthcare systems will serve our patients well,” said Chief Executive Officer Jaeson Fournier. “We look forward to working with Nancy to continue providing high-quality, accessible care to the underserved communities in Austin and surrounding areas.”

Ban joins CommUnityCare on August 29. She comes from NEXXT Health Advisors in Massachusetts where she served as the Lead Healthcare Consultant. Notable work during her time there was strategic planning for Federally Qualified Health Centers.

She previously worked at Central Maine Healthcare, a nonprofit health care system dedicated to providing accessible, comprehensive care where she quickly climbed the leadership ladder. Her roles included Vice President of Operations and Strategic Initiatives, Vice President of Non-Acute Care Services, Interim System Director of Support Services, and Executive Director of Results Management Office.

Ban also spent time at Centura Health in Colorado, a nonprofit healthcare system as Group Special Projects Manager and Chief of Staff.

“CommUnityCare Health Centers is a progressive and diverse organization that embodies innovation and person-centered health care,” said Ban. “I believe strongly in the organization’s mission and look forward to contributing my experience in operational excellence to positively impact the health and well-being of the communities in which we serve.”

CommUnityCare’s current COO, Yvonne Camarena, will transition into a new senior leadership role as the organization’s first Chief Nursing Officer to help better support CommUnityCare’s rapidly growing nursing and care management teams.

It’s National Health Center week, where the 1,400 health centers across the nation, including CommUnityCare, show their gratitude to patients, staff, and community leaders.

As Central Texas’ largest nonprofit health center with 27 locations, CommUnityCare provides quality, inclusive healthcare to underserved populations in Central Texas. That includes pediatrics, women’s health, behavioral health, dental and primary care.

What we believe

We believe all Texans deserve high-quality, nonjudgmental care–regardless of how much money they make. We knock down traditional barriers to receiving quality care, like race, ethnicity, cost, language, and health literacy. Our approach to health extends beyond the doctor’s office to things like daily nutrition and housing.

Over the coming year, CommUnityCare is scheduled to open a health center inside Pathways at Chalmers Courts East, a project-based rental assistance property for low-income residents in East Austin. Four other expansion projects are in the pipeline for 2023.

So many to thank

• Our 125,000 patients for trusting us with their care and that of their families.
• Our strong community partners, including Austin’s new Black Men’s Health Clinic, Dell Medical School, and Hill Country AIDS Ride, who value bringing quality healthcare to those who need it
• Elected officials in both political parties who support the vital community health system that has an enormous impact, given the population and barriers to care in Texas.
• The CommUnityCare team of 1,100 professionals who day in and day out work to serve diverse communities in Central Texas.

Back to School!

In celebration of National Health Center Week, CommUnityCare is eager to help get Austin kids ready to go back to school. This past weekend, we co-hosted an event with Central Health providing school immunizations and backpacks filled with school supplies. And we’re doing it all over again in a second drive-thru event this Saturday! Both events together, we anticipate, will touch 1,000 families as they head back to school. Join us.

CommUnityCare is excited to announce it is now providing primary care medical services at Austin’s recently established Black Men’s Health Clinic (BMHC) Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6 pm to 8 pm.

The partnership with the BMHC is born out of a mutual commitment to increase access to health care and health care information in a setting that best meets the needs of men of color.

“There are many reasons men of color do not access the health care system including socioeconomic status or lack of information. Another major barrier in accessing care for black men is rooted in historic medical mistrust” said the founder of the Black Men’s Health Clinic, Larry Wallace Sr. “In order to help overcome this mistrust and to address the health inequities men of color face, I recognized that a dedicated and safe environment for men of color was needed – this is why I established the Black Men’s Health Clinic with strong support from community partners and stakeholders, including CommUnityCare.”

In addition to providing primary medical care, CommUnityCare will coordinate care and referrals to other services and will have a full-time community health worker at the BMHC which is located at 6633 E. Highway 290, Suite #100, Austin, Texas 78723. Men interested in accessing care at this location can call 512.978.9015 to schedule an appointment. CommUnityCare plans to expand hours of service at the BMHC in the coming months based on patient demand.

“Data shows that Travis County black men live, on average, 5.1 years less than their white non-Latino counterparts,” said CommUnityCare CEO, Jaeson Fournier. “We also know that our black men, especially those who are low income, are more likely to die from heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer. The Black Men’s Health Clinic provides an opportunity to better address these longstanding health disparities, and CommUnityCare could not be prouder to partner with the Black Men’s Health Clinic.”

For more information visit blackmenshealthclinic.com or communitycaretx.org.

Pictured from left to right: Carmen Cardenas, CHW; Diana Castillo, Senior MAC; Luis Chen, CHW; Tania Vega, CMA; Christa Jones, APRN

 Kathryn Litten, CommUnityCare Clinical Pharmacist, PharmD, BCACP

Alex Garza, PharmD Candidate, University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy

Beginning in late 2020, CommUnityCare spearheaded a pilot program to provide insulin pumps to patients who would otherwise not be able to access the insulin pump due to cost. The purpose of the program was to determine the efficacy and satisfaction of the insulin pump in underserved communities and to provide data to support continued funding. CommUnityCare is a nonprofit community health system with almost 30 locations in Central Texas that provide healthcare to underserved communities.

A team of pharmacy students from the University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy evaluated the pilot program.

The Results

A group of 27 CommUnityCare patients in Central Health’s Medical Assistance Program (MAP) who have type one or type two diabetes received insulin pumps at no cost. Overall, the patients’ A1C levels (average blood sugar) dropped by 1.2%, a significant decrease. Patients also reported fewer hypoglycemic events. Most surveyed patients were either satisfied or very satisfied with their pump and said the insulin made a difference in treating their diabetes. Quality of life improved.

Overcoming Barriers to Treatment

According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes is the most expensive chronic condition in our nation. Diabetes continues to affect the population both nationally and in Texas, with nearly one in three adults living with the disease.

As with many other chronic conditions, systemic barriers such income, access to quality healthcare, and education often increase the chances a person will develop diabetes and increase the odds that the disease will remain uncontrolled.

Insulin pumps have many advantages for patients with diabetes, including lowering A1C levels and reducing hypoglycemic events and injections. However, insulin pumps cost upwards of $8,000 without insurance, plus up to $6,000 a year for ongoing supplies.

The CommUnityCare pilot overcame this cost barrier, allowing patients access to insulin pumps and made a positive impact on patient quality of life and insulin levels.

We know gas, groceries, and housing are more expensive. But the cost of healthcare at CommUnityCare hasn’t changed. That’s because your cost is based on your income. We believe quality care shouldn’t depend on economic conditions, how much money you make, or whether you have insurance. To make an appointment for primary care, pediatrics, dentistry, or mental health, call our patient navigation center at 512.978.9015

Nosotros sabemos que la gasolina, el mandado y la vivienda están más caros. Pero el costo de la atención médica en CommUnityCare no ha cambiado. Eso es porque su costo se basa en sus ingresos. Creemos que la calidad de la atención médica no debería depender de las condiciones económicas, de cuánto dinero gana o de si tiene o no tiene seguro medico. Para hacer una cita para atención primaria, pediatría, dentistería o salud mental, llame a nuestro centro de navegación de pacientes al 512.978.9015.

Watch this video to learn more about who we are.

CommUnityCare Health Centers is set to expand access to care in the northern part of Travis County with the construction of a new $3.1 million health center. The new space is expected to open in early 2023 and will replace CommUnityCare’s existing Pflugerville Health Center which originally opened in 2009.

“Thanks to financial support from both the federal government and Central Health, CommUnityCare’s plans for a new and larger Pflugerville Health Center are becoming a reality,”  said Jaeson Fournier, CommUnityCare Chief Executive Officer. “This new health center will allow us to more comprehensively and thoroughly meet the health care needs of Pflugerville residents.”

The new 15,000 square-foot health center will offer pediatric services, family medicine services, women’s health services, dental services, and laboratory services.  The new health center will also include integrated care coordination, care management, and behavioral health services. Planning for the space includes a large and efficient reception area, a dedicated medical area consisting of 24 medical examination rooms, and a dedicated dental area consisting of 9 to 10 operatories.

The new health center will be centrally located at The Three Points Plaza at 2700 W. Pecan St where patients will also have access to more parking. The new health center will be easily accessible and only around half a mile from the current location. Construction is expected to begin in July 2022.

CommUnityCare in collaboration with Central Health is set to expand access to care by opening four new health centers across Travis County in the span of 18 months. New health centers are set to open in Pflugerville, Hornsby Bend, Del Valle, and East Austin, allowing CommUnityCare to further its mission of strengthening the health and well-being of the communities it serves.

CommUnityCare is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and Federally Qualified Health Center that provides outpatient health care services to lower-income populations in Travis County and surrounding areas across 27 health centers.

CommUnityCare Health Centers and Central Health are set to open three new health centers over the next 18 months beginning with a new Chalmers Courts Health Center in East Austin, and replacement and larger health centers in Del Valle and Hornsby Bend.  These three new locations will expand access to care and increase services within these Travis County underserved communities, all of which have demonstrated and longstanding health disparities when compared to other areas of Travis County.

“Achieving greater health equity is the core of CommUnityCare’s vision. We know that individuals and families that experience economic and social insecurity consistently experience worse health outcomes,” said Jaeson Fournier, CommUnityCare Chief Executive Officer. “So, when we take a look at ways to provide access to care it’s imperative for us to identify the communities that face various obstacles and develop solutions to address the health disparities residents in our communities face.”

Groundbreaking ceremonies were recently held on the future sites of all three facilities. Hornsby Bend Health and Wellness Center broke ground March 26, Del Valle Health and Wellness Center broke ground April 2 and Chalmers Courts Health Center broke ground April 4.

Chalmers Courts Health Center

CommUnityCare, Central Health and the Housing Authority of the City of Austin will establish this Community Health Center directly within Pathways at Chalmers Courts East, a project-based rental assistance property for low-income residents in East Austin. The 5,000 square foot health center is set to include family primary care services, dental services, labs, imaging, pharmacy, care coordination, and care management. It is located at 314 Chicon Street and set to open late Summer to early Fall 2022.

“The Chalmers Courts Health Center will help remove so many barriers to health care that our residents face every day as they will have this amazing facility right in their own backyard. This health center will help us fulfill the vision for a complete Chalmers Community that supports our residents and east Austin neighbors,” said Michael Gerber, HACA President and CEO.

Hornsby Bend Health and Wellness Center

This new 7,800 square foot facility will be located at 3700 Gilbert Road, replacing the existing Hornsby Bend Health Center. It will offer residents primary medical care, integrated behavioral health, oral assessments, community gathering space, plus more. It is set to open Spring 2023.

Del Valle Health and Wellness Center

This 18,900 square foot facility will replace the existing Del Valle Health Center. The Del Valle Health & Wellness Center will include primary care, dental care, integrated mental health, and a pharmacy. It is set to open Summer 2023.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued an expanded recall of Abbott Nutrition’s baby formula warning families not to use certain powdered infant formulas over bacterial contamination concerns.

The recalled products include Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare powdered formulas. The recalled products can be found on the company’s website using the 7 to 9 digit code and expiration date.

As of February 28, the FDA states that there have been four total reports of Cronobacter infections and one complaint of a Salmonella infection. All five of the reported illnesses, which include cases in Texas, have led to hospitalization and may have contributed to the death of two of the infants.

According to healthychildren.org Cronobacter is a bacteria that can cause a life-threatening infection called sepsis and meningitis which is an inflammation around the brain and spine. Salmonella can cause stomach and intestinal illness.

If you are a parent and your baby’s formula is recalled healthychildren.org advises you take it in store for an exchange or refund. It is also advised that you contact your pediatrician if you are worried about switching formulas. CommUnityCare pediatricians are ready to assist and answer any questions for parents who are concerned over which formula is safe.

Parents using WIC benefits should call WIC offices for more assistance if they are unable to exchange or return.

For more answers to commonly asked questions such as what to do if you can’t find a formula in stock due to the pandemic, other ways bacteria can spread while feeding your baby, or special considerations for premature babies visit healthychildren.org.

Not even the COVID-19 pandemic could stop the success of CommUnityCare’s Healthy Chef Cooking Program in improving clients’ diets around Central Texas.

Founded in 2016, the program teaches nutrition education and provides hands-on learning to use healthy ingredients to create healthy meals. The program lasts six weeks, with six separate cohorts taking lessons in English or Spanish.

“The most rewarding part of this program for me is the cooking classes. It’s really neat to see people who are uncomfortable with certain cooking techniques or do not have good health literacy prepare meals and get that sense of success,” said Elyse Henson, CommUnityCare’s Clinical Nutrition Manager & Outpatient Dietitian.

Healthy Chef serves more than 100 patients per year and, after a brief pause during 2020, has adjusted to continuing its mission during the pandemic Class sizes have gotten smaller. Masks and vaccines are required. And in-class food sharing has been replaced by to-go-boxes that allow for after-hours tasting.

The program increased access to lessons in healthy eating both before and after COVID-19 arrived.  In 2019, for instance, the “Lose to Win” weight management class consisted of three groups with 24 hour-and-a-half long classes, for a total of 108 hours of lessons for Central Texas residents. This year, six groups are taking 12 two-and-a-half hour classes that collectively offer 180 hours of lessons in diet and nutrition.

The instructors present the nutritional teachings at the start of each class. They cover a broad range of topics, such as what it means to sauté or how much is in a tablespoon.

The lessons follow a set curriculum, with the first focused on kitchen safety, teaching participants how to keep meat and produce separate from one another and store them properly.

Other lessons explain what a healthy plate looks like, including the right daily balance of protein and starches and their roles in a healthy diet. Students actively participate in all lessons by answering questions, reading instructions, and helping to cook.

Participants are recruited from a variety of CommUnityCare health centers. Information is posted on flyers and digital screens. Physicians are encouraged to tell patients about the program if they believe they would benefit. About 90% of the clients who participate in the program are at risk for health complications.

Many participants cite the class as a highlight of their week. Although participation is limited to once per year, some clients find it so valuable they rejoin the program each year.

To learn more about enrolling in the Healthy Chef Cooking Program, please call 512-978-9269.

CommUnityCare Health Centers provide much-needed dental care to about 17,000 Central Texans each year through seven dental clinics, including three that serve children from low-income families.

Now, the centers will be able to reach these patients even more effectively, thanks to a $150,000 grant from the Delta Dental Community Care Foundation. The generous grant will help buy new equipment, supplies and chairs — and directly keep down costs for patients in need

“Many of CommUnityCare’s patients across Central Texas have gone years without regular dental care and are facing significant problems with their teeth and other areas of oral health care,” said CommUnityCare Chief Executive Officer Jaeson Fournier. “We are grateful for this commitment from the Delta Dental Community Care Foundation, which will directly support our mission to strengthen the health and well-being of the communities we serve.”

The funding is part of more than $20 million in grants the foundation is distributing this year throughout the 15 states and the District of Columbia, where Delta Dental of California operates.

The Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Delta Dental of California and its affiliated companies. Since 2011, it has awarded more than $60 million to health centers, food banks, disaster relief agencies and other community nonprofits to increase access to dental care, oral health education, and advance scientific research. Much of the foundation’s work goes towards improving equity in diverse communities.

“We’re honored to support CommUnityCare and their efforts to promote oral health care in the communities they serve,” said Kenzie Ferguson, vice president of foundation and corporate social responsibility for Delta Dental of California.

“This year, we looked for grant applicants who can meet the needs of those who often do not have access to quality dental health resources, such as the elderly, individuals in rural areas, and underserved communities of color. CommUnityCare stood out as a nonprofit organization that shared our mission and values. We’re very happy to extend this grant to them.”

CommUnityCare’s dental health services include exams, teeth cleaning, fillings, extractions, dentures, sealants, emergency treatment, and exams for children as young as 1-year-old as part of their well medical checkup. CommUnityCare also operates the School-Based Sealant Program for Austin Independent School District Title 1 schools.

Thanks to a generous $100,000 grant from the LOLA WRIGHT FOUNDATION, CommUnityCare will buy a new Ambulance Sprinter van in 2022 that can serve as a mini-medical clinic. The sprinter will allow CommUnityCare’s HEALTHCARE FOR THE HOMELESS team to expand mobile healthcare services to Austin’s homeless population.

The funds will also be used for other items to support street medicine, such as sleeping bags, clothing and tents.

“The Lola Wright Foundation’s support and partnership will help to serve people experiencing homelessness, promoting comprehensive wellness and preventive care while potentially avoiding critical illness and hospitalization,” said CommUnityCare Chief Medical Officer Dr. Nicholas Yagoda. “The Ambulance Sprinter is about providing the right care at the right time, and with the help of the Lola Wright Foundation, this vision will become a reality for more Central Texans.”

CommUnityCare has long served those in Travis County experiencing homelessness, providing them with necessary healthcare and supportive services. This includes operating the clinic at the Austin Resource Center for the Homeless (ARCH), a shelter in downtown Austin, and offering medical care for unsheltered individuals staying near Sunrise Church, a homeless resource center in South Austin.

The Clinical Lead for the Healthcare for the Homeless team, Dr. Audrey Kuang shared, “Our street medicine team has been providing comprehensive primary care services to unsheltered individuals for the past five years in Austin. Through our consistent and compassionate care, our patients have come to trust us with their healthcare needs and beyond. The sprinter van will allow us to expand our services and our reach no matter rain or shine. We are so grateful to the Lola Wright Foundation for supporting our work.”

CommUnityCare also provides dental and vision care and has served more than 1,000 individuals experiencing homelessness. The grant from the Lola Wright Foundation and the new Ambulance Sprinter will build on these efforts and continue to help the unsheltered population in Travis County better manage their healthcare.

Founded in 1954,  the Lola Wright Foundation supports children and youth, public health and human services, education and community development and arts and culture. It provides grants to organizations in and around Austin.

CommUnityCare expects to purchase and dispatch the Ambulance Sprinter in early 2022. Click to learn more about COMMUNITYCARE’S STREET MEDICINE TEAM.

CommUnityCare Health Centers Chief Medical Officer Dr. Nicholas Yagoda answers some of the most common questions we are hearing as the COVID-19 Omicron variant spreads in Central Texas.

I haven’t gotten my first COVID-19 vaccine, and now I hear there are three or four required. Is it too late to catch up? Is there any point?

It is never too late to get started on updating your vaccines.

COVID-19 is likely to be with us for years to come, so starting to build your immunity through vaccines will have long-lasting benefits for you and those around you. Most of the vaccines we receive as a normal part of our healthcare require multiple doses to build full immunity, and COVID-19 is no different. It takes time to build a strong immune response.

I’m healthy and have already had the first two shots. Do I really need a booster? Isn’t that just a recommendation?

The booster is now strongly recommended based on Omicron’s ability to escape the immunity generated by the initial vaccination doses. Additionally, the immunity from only one or two doses of the COVID-19 vaccines started to wane after 4-6 months. Based on our experience with other vaccines, this is not surprising. It is quite common among our routine vaccinations to require multiple doses to achieve sustained, effective immunity. The COVID-19 vaccine boosters are following the same pattern.

I’m vaccinated, and I’m now hearing about the need to wear masks again — is that really necessary? 

Masking is an important barrier to prevent infection when our immune systems are not strong enough to protect us from serious illnesses that might require hospitalization or cause death. The immunity we develop following initial vaccine doses is initially very strong but gradually starts to weaken. ​Fortunately, boosters help restore strong protection. So while we work to get our community their protective boosters, we return to masking to keep us safe at a time when we are vulnerable.

CommUnityCare Health Centers will be closed all day on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day (Dec. 24 – 25), and News Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day (Dec. 31 – Jan. 1).

The only exceptions are:

• HANCOCK CONVENIENT CARE will be open all of those days
• CAROUSEL PEDIATRICS – Riverside will be open from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. on New Year’s Day

Have a happy and healthy holidays.

This December 1^st 2021 marks World AIDS Day — a solemn moment of reflection during the 40^th year of the HIV epidemic. For many of the early survivors, World AIDS Day is a somber moment to pause in remembrance of those who lost their lives to HIV; celebration as we note the progress that has been made in science and medicine; and consternation as we pass yet another year of an epidemic that has not been brought under control.

CommUnityCare has been at the forefront of the fight against HIV in central Texas with the David Powell Health Center, which has been centering people living with HIV with comprehensive primary care, pharmacy, mental and behavioral health, and social services for over 30 years. Click on the video to hear from our team members at David Powell who are at the forefront of the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

By Audrey Kuang, MD

In 1978, Delta Airlines pioneered the “Hub and Spoke” model, following deregulation of the airline industry, with the goal of increasing access and efficiency of air travel. Atlanta, GA was established as the hub through which most flights were routed while other airports were designated as spokes where travelers might begin or complete their routes. In healthcare, the Hub and Spoke Model has been used to increase access to specialized care within primary care settings, in addition to the traditional offering at a hospital or specialty clinic. CommUnityCare’ s Care Connections (CareCo) Clinic serves as both a hub (for complex procedures) and a spoke (for key services), bringing together a remarkable array of services for our patients with the highest burden of clinical illness as well as people experiencing homelessness. With this model we are boldly and safely challenging traditional notions of “right care, right place, right time.” Some of these services include the following:

1. Paracentesis is a procedure that is typically provided in a hospital setting that provides relief to individuals by draining fluid that has accumulated in the abdomen. This procedure helps avoid visits to the emergency room or hospital, and patients prefer the calm setting of our clinic with their trusted providers and team.

2. Hepatitis C treatment was traditionally provided exclusively by a GI or Infectious Disease specialist, but with newer hepatitis C medications, treatment protocols have been simplified allowing for treatment in the primary care setting. CareCo is one of a number of sites at CommUnityCare to offer Hep C screening, diagnosis and treatment within the convenience of our patients’ primary care experience.

3. Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) combines medication and behavioral therapy to treat substance use disorder, including the remarkably effective medication, buprenorphine, for the treatment of opioid use disorder. Initiation of this treatment requires intensive support, however, once a patient has stabilized on buprenorphine at our SEHWC hub, they are then transferred to a spoke site, including CareCo, for continued treatment. This exciting work is led by our MAT lead, Emily Humphrey.

4. HIV care has traditionally been delivered out of our hub site, the David Powell Clinic. Timely linkage to care is critical in the treatment of HIV, and CareCo Clinic has been developed as a spoke site to provide HIV care. Through additional HRSA grant funding, a HIV case manager and community health worker will be hired to assist with the spoke model work. This exciting addition is led by our Sexual Health Associate Director, Dr. Mike Stefanowicz.

(Austin) – Central Health-affiliated CommUnityCare Health Centers is now administering Pfizer-BioNtech COVID-19 vaccinations for children ages 5 through 11 years old who are established patients. CommUnityCare is also offering booster shots by appointment only to eligible adult patients who completed their primary Pfizer-BIONtech, Moderna, or Johnson & Johnson vaccine series. Children and adult patients can receive their shots at their CommUnityCare home clinic (medical home).

To support the demand for pediatric vaccines and provide adequate staffing, CommUnityCare will close its walk-in vaccine locations starting this Friday, Nov. 12, at Rosewood-Zaragoza, North Central Health Center, and Southeast Health & Wellness Center. “CommUnityCare strongly encourages patients eligible for a COVID-19 booster to come in and get their shot and is also encouraging parents to vaccinate their children five and up,” CommUnityCare CEO Jaeson Fournier said, while noting that, “Vaccines continue to be the most effective way to prevent severe illness and death from COVID-19.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, the following vaccine recipients are eligible for any of the COVID-19 boosters authorized in the United States:

• Those who have completed the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine series at least six months ago and are:
  • 65 years or older
  • Age 18+ who live in long-term care settings
  • Age 18+ who have underlying medical conditions
  • Age 18+ who work or live in high-risk settings
• Those who have received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least two months ago and are 18 years and older

“Vaccines and boosters are key to stopping the spread and keeping each other safe,” Central Health President & CEO Mike Geeslin said. “COVID boosters and pediatric vaccines are free and will be the best reinforcement for a safe and healthy holiday season.” Pfizer’s vaccine for younger kids is two doses of 10 micrograms, rather than the 30 micrograms per dose used for people 12 and older.

For more information and to schedule appointments, call CommUnityCare at 512-978-9015. For the latest information on CommUnityCare’s efforts related to COVID-19, visit HTTPS://COMMUNITYCARETX.ORG/COVID19/#VACCINEINFO.

We’re celebrating more than 10 years of serving Central Texas to improve health equity and we are looking forward to another 10 years. We are committed to providing the right care, at the right time, and the right place for those who need us most. We can’t wait to show you what we do next. Click on the video below to learn more.

Nurses are the heart of CommUnityCare Health Centers and are often the first providers that patients engage with. Listen to Marion Douglas, long time nurse and The DAISY Award winner talk about why she loves working at CommUnityCare and what the DAISY award means to her.

By: Dr. Audrey Kuang

The Austin Resource Center for the Homeless (ARCH) is a homeless shelter in downtown Austin that can house up to 100 individuals on any given night. Our ARCH clinic, dedicated to patients experiencing homelessness, is located on the first floor of the lobby.

On October 14th, 2021, the ARCH clinic team hosted a special event for women experiencing homelessness, to encourage health screening and improve health engagement. The event was open only to women, and they were warmly welcomed into the waiting room for snacks, tea, and free goodies like purses and nail polish. Many women participated, some of who had not had any regular healthcare for over 10 years. Pap smears (cervical cancer screening) were collected, mammograms were ordered, flu and Covid vaccines were administered, and screening labs (for diabetes, STDs, etc.) were performed. The women had a chance to meet the whole team, including our behavioral health counselor and case manager, to discuss their needs and struggles. Many women shared that, through the event, they felt loved and cared for; our hope is that our team at the ARCH will continue to support these women to promote their health and well-being.