It’s been hailed as the “Most Modern Community Health Center in Central Texas,” and Central Health Southeast Health & Wellness Center (the Center) in Austin, TX, does appear to live up to their reputation. The Center celebrated it’s Grand Opening in February of this year, and stands out because of it’s focus on the whole person. “This center was conceived and created by local residents and numerous community groups,” said Central Health Board Chair Katrina Daniel. “They told us they wanted more than a medical clinic. They wanted a center of health and wellness that would care for the whole person and the whole family. Central Health and our Board of Managers listened, and we leaned on a core group of dedicated leaders who met regularly to make this community vision a reality.”
Of the 70 item priority list created by community members, 68 items have been implemented or are in progress. In addition to more typical medical offerings (primary care, specialty care, dental, behavioral health, on-site pharmacy, radiology/mammography, prenatal education/care) the Center offers (or will offer) many additional features and services, including:
Healthy cooking classes in their teaching kitchen
An educational community garden
Free exercise classes, including yoga and Zumba
A “Centering Pregnancy Program” where expecting and new mothers participate in group visits and learn from one another
Diabetes support and education classes
A WIC office with expanded services
Public meeting and gathering spaces including an outdoor plaza, playground, and community rooms
Community Resource Center to assist with eligibility and enrollment for health care coverage, screening for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Central Health’s Medical Access Program (MAP)
“Central Health Southeast Health & Wellness Center represents our innovative model in which we focus on health outcomes instead of just more care,” said Patricia Young Brown, Central Health’s President and CEO. “Here under one roof, an expectant mom with diabetes can fill her prescriptions, attend prenatal classes, healthy cooking classes or a Zumba class. After she delivers her baby, she continues to see her doctor here [and can] relax outside on the plaza, watch her child play on the play scape, and even learn how and when to plant tomatoes in our educational garden. It really is a one-stop destination for healthier living.”
Photo Credit: Central Health
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