Central Health

Central Health is Travis County's hospital district, a political subdivision of the State of Texas created by voters in 2004 to build a comprehensive safety-net healthcare system for low-income residents. The organisation employs approximately 800 people and works with more than 80 community organisation partners across Travis County. Its stated purpose is to improve the health of the community by caring for those who need it most, with a commitment to access to quality healthcare regardless of ability to pay.

Central Health operates an integrated system spanning several components. The Medical Access Program (MAP) provides health coverage for uninsured and underinsured Travis County residents. CommUnityCare Health Centers delivers direct clinical services, while Sendero Health Plans forms the health plan arm of the system. Work covers primary, specialty, dental, behavioural and hospital-based care, as well as post-acute and transitions of care.

Programmes extend beyond clinical care. The Food Is Medicine initiative addresses social determinants of health, and the Medical Respite Center serves people experiencing homelessness. Guided by a Healthcare Equity Plan adopted in early 2022, Central Health is directing up to $700 million in investments toward closing gaps in the safety-net system. As a voter-created public entity, it is accountable to the community it serves.