Author: Veronica de la Rosa

August Is National Immunization Awareness Month

Posted on by Veronica de la Rosa

August is the perfect time to check that your family’s vaccinations are up to date before the school year begins.

Vaccines help protect children, families, and the community from serious diseases. In 2026, more than 2,465 measles cases have been reported in the United States as of August 6, 2026, with more than 70% occurring in children and teens. While there is no current outbreak in Central Texas, public health experts encourage families to stay up to date on recommended vaccinations before school starts.

Not sure what your child needs? Send your clinical team a message via MyChart.

Whether your child needs preventive care, vaccinations, or a back-to-school checkup, People’s Community Clinic is here to help your family start the school year healthy and ready to learn.

People’s Community Clinic is currently accepting new patients in our women’s health, children, teens, and young adult departments. Call 512.478.4939 to schedule an appointment.

Back-to-School Events in Central Texas

Posted on by Veronica de la Rosa

Getting ready for school can be expensive, but many organizations across Central Texas are helping families prepare with free community events.

Families may find:

  • Free backpacks
  • School supplies
  • Health screenings
  • Family-friendly activities

Visit the Community Resources page on the People’s Community Clinic website or follow People’s Community Clinic on social media for updates on local events.

Back to School Starts with Good Health

Posted on by Veronica de la Rosa

The first day of school is just around the corner. Here are a few simple steps to help your child start the school year healthy and ready to learn.

According to Dr. Nilanjana Dasgupta, Chief Medical Officer at People’s Community Clinic, parents can make a big difference by focusing on three things:

  • Schedule your child’s annual wellness visit and make sure they’re up to date on recommended vaccinations.
  • Help children get back into healthy routines with regular sleep, physical activity, and nutritious meals.
  • Stay involved by talking with your child about school and keeping in touch with teachers throughout the year.
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Getting back to a good sleep routine before school starts will help get the school year off to a good start.

— Dr. Nilanjana Dasgupta, Chief Medical Officer

Annual Wellness Visit vs. Sports Physical: What’s the Difference?

Many parents think a sports physical replaces an annual checkup, but they serve different purposes.

A sports physical helps determine whether it’s safe for a child or teen to participate in sports or other physical activities, such as marching band.

An annual wellness visit is a complete preventive health exam. It checks your child’s growth and development, reviews physical and behavioral health, updates vaccinations, and gives families guidance on staying healthy throughout the year.

Even if your child already had a sports physical, an annual wellness visit is still important.

One Tip for a Smoother School Year from Dr. Dasgupta

“Getting back to a good sleep routine before school starts will help get the school year off to a good start.”

Back-to-School Checklist

✔ Annual wellness visit
✔ Sports physical (if participating in sports or other physical activities)
✔ Recommended vaccinations

People’s Community Clinic is currently accepting new patients in our women’s health, children, teens, and young adult departments. Call 512.478.4939 to schedule your appointment.

Know What to Expect Before Your Visit

Posted on by Veronica de la Rosa
At People’s Community Clinic, cost should not stand in the way of getting the care you need. After you complete a screening for our sliding fee discount program, use the chart below to estimate what you may pay for a medical or behavioral health visit.
Please note: People’s offers additional services that are not shown in the chart. These services may have a separate charge.
FPL means Federal Poverty Level. This chart will go into effect on September 1, 2026.

A Letter from our CEO. On-site pharmacy coming in 2027!

Posted on by Veronica de la Rosa

Even in a complex healthcare landscape, there are still times when successful care plans come down to simple moments—like whether a patient can fill her prescriptions. Unfortunately, for many of the patients at People’s Community Clinic, this challenge is all too familiar.

When medications are delayed, skipped, or simply out of reach due to cost, patients suffer.

Dr. Judy Kim, a physician in People’s adult health department, recently cared for a woman in her 40s with uncontrolled blood pressure. The patient had been to the emergency room multiple times, even experiencing seizures due to her diagnosis. Each time she came to visit, her blood pressure was dangerously high despite the medications prescribed.

 

As it turns out, the patient was having trouble accessing the medications she needed to keep her blood pressure under control. She did not have a car and relied on public transportation. Due to unpredictability with the bus schedule, she would often arrive at the pharmacy after it had closed and could not pick up the medications she needed.

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As physicians, we can create a treatment plan, but if patients cannot access their medications, that plan breaks down. I see patients doing everything they can to manage their health, but not all parts of the system are set up to make it easy.

— Dr. Judy Kim, Adult health physician

Stories like this are why People’s will open an on-site pharmacy at our main clinic in Spring 2027. This allows patients to leave their clinic visit with medications in hand.

But we cannot do this alone.

A generous gift of $50, $75, or $100 helps provide high quality medical, prenatal, dental, mental health, and in Spring 2027—pharmaceutical care to those who need it most. Please make your gift today.

Thank you for being part of this mission. We are grateful for your support and look forward to continuing this important work together.

Make a gift today.

Sincerely,
Matt Balthazar, CEO
People’s Community Clinic

Important Notice: Recall of TRUE METRIX Blood Glucose Meters

Posted on by Veronica de la Rosa
People’s Community Clinic is sharing an important update to help keep you safe and informed about your diabetes care.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a Class I recall, the most serious type, for all TRUE METRIX blood glucose meters due to a software issue that may affect how results are displayed.
TRUE METRIX meters may show an “E-5” error message.
According to the FDA, this message can mean two different things:
  • Blood sugar is extremely high (over 600 mg/dL), or
  • There is a problem with the test strip or device
As a result, patients may delay seeking care or self-treat incorrectly, which can lead to serious health risks.
In some cases, this confusion has been linked to serious outcomes, including dehydration, loss of consciousness, and other complications when treatment is delayed or incorrect.
What you should do:
You can continue using your TRUE METRIX meter for now. However, if you have access to another blood glucose meter, it is recommended that you use that instead when possible. For your safety, do not change your insulin or other diabetes medications based only on an “E-5” error message.
Trividia Health is offering free replacements for certain TRUE METRIX® blood glucose meters. You should contact Trividia Health to verify if your meter is affected and to get a replacement.

How to Contact for Replacement:

If you have an E-5 error and feel unwell:
  • Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if symptoms are severe.
  • Contact your provider right away, or
  • Call the People’s Community Clinic at 512.478.4939

Resources:  

FDA: Blood Glucose Monitor Recall: Trividia Health Issues Correction for TRUE METRIX Blood Glucose Monitoring Systems 

FDA: Risks of Using TRUE METRIX Blood Glucose Monitoring Systems by Trividia Health: FDA Safety Communication 

URGENT: MEDICAL DEVICE CORRECTION – UPDATED Trividia Health Correction for TRUE METRIX Blood Glucose Monitoring Systems (May 1, 2026)

Why Gut Health Matters More Than You Think

Posted on by Veronica de la Rosa

When people want to stay healthy, they usually focus on exercise, sleep, or drinking more water. But gut health is also a key part of wellness that many people miss.

Your gut does more than just digest food. A healthy gut helps your immune system, energy, heart, mood, and even your brain. Some experts call the gut the body’s “second brain.”

Dr. Nilanjana Dasgupta, Chief Medical Officer at People’s Community Clinic, says researchers are still discovering how closely the gut and brain are connected.

“The gut-brain axis (GBA) is a well-established communication network linking the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system through neural, endocrine, immune, and metabolic pathways,” said Dr. Dasgupta.

“The health of your gut doesn’t just affect digestion. It plays a role in mood, energy, memory, and overall well-being. Taking care of your gut through nutrition, sleep, and stress management is an important part of caring for your whole self.”

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The health of your gut doesn’t just affect digestion. It plays a role in mood, energy, memory, and overall well-being. Taking care of your gut through nutrition, sleep, and stress management is an important part of caring for your whole self.

— Dr. Nilanjana Dasgupta, Chief Medical Officer

What Is Gut Health?

Gut health refers to how well your digestive system works, especially the balance of bacteria and other tiny organisms in your intestines, collectively called the gut microbiome.
Not all bacteria are harmful.
Healthy bacteria help your body:
  • Break down food
  • Absorb nutrients
  • Fight harmful germs
  • Support the immune system
  • Reduce inflammation
If your gut gets out of balance, it can impact many parts of your health and how you feel every day.

Signs Your Gut May Need Attention

Everyone has stomach issues sometimes, but if symptoms keep happening, your gut might need more attention.
Some common signs are:
  • Frequent bloating
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Heartburn
  • Upset stomach
  • Feeling tired often
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Changes in mood
  • Food sensitivities

If these symptoms don’t go away, it’s smart to talk to a healthcare provider.

Colorectal Cancer Screening Can Save Lives

Most people should start getting screened at age 45, and some may need to start earlier depending on their health and family history. The good news is that there are several screening options available—not just colonoscopy. Talk with your doctor about what’s right for you.
At People’s Community Clinic, our physicians are strong advocates for colorectal cancer screening and will help you choose the option that best fits your needs.

Call 512.478.4939 to make an appointment with a doctor to explore your options.

Simple Ways to Support Gut Health

The good news is that small daily habits can really help over time.
Eat More Fiber
Fiber helps feed the healthy bacteria in your gut. Foods high in fiber include:
  • Fruits
  • Vegetables
  • Beans
  • Whole grains
  • Nuts and seeds
Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water helps your digestion and supports your overall health.

Add Fermented Foods

Some foods naturally contain probiotics, which are healthy bacteria that may support digestion. Examples include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, miso, and tempeh.

Limit Highly Processed Foods

Foods high in added sugar and processed ingredients can be bad for your gut health.

Get Enough Sleep and Manage Stress
Stress and insufficient sleep can affect your digestion and gut bacteria. Simple habits like walking, stretching, deep breathing, and turning off screens before bed can help keep your gut healthy.
Don’t ignore digestive problems that keep coming back. A healthcare provider can help find the cause and suggest treatment or changes to your habits.
At People’s Community Clinic, providers help patients take care of their whole body, including digestive health and prevention. Regular checkups can catch problems early and help keep families healthy at every stage of life.

People’s Community Clinic is Now Accepting New Patients

Posted on by Veronica de la Rosa

Do you have a friend or family member who needs health care?

At People’s Community Clinic, everybody from babies to senior adults can get the care they need in one place. With affordable options, a sliding fee scale, and assistance for patients without insurance, it’s easy to get started.

Healthcare for Every Stage of Life

Care for your whole family, all in one place:

  • Primary care for children, teens, and adults
  • Women’s health and prenatal care
  • Pediatric care
  • Dental services
  • Behavioral health support
  • Chronic disease management

Care That Fits Your Life and Your Budget

Insurance Accepted

People’s Community Clinic accepts:

  • Medicaid
  • Medicare
  • CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program)
  • Marketplace (Affordable Care Act) plans

Cost should not keep you from seeing a doctor. At People’s, it will not be a barrier.

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Cost should not keep you from seeing a doctor. At People’s, it will not be a barrier.

No insurance? You can still get care at reduced cost.

  • Sliding Fee Scale based on income and household size
  • Financial counseling is available to help you understand your options and enroll in coverage.

Who qualifies?
The sliding fee scale is available to individuals and families who meet specific income guidelines. You may qualify even if you work or have limited coverage. A financial counselor will explain income thresholds and guide you through eligibility and options.

Reach out now to maximize your options and access to care.

Not sure what you qualify for?
Enrollment timelines matter. Financial counselors can help you apply for or update coverage before the deadline.

Can uninsured patients access these services?
Yes. Many services, including primary care, dental, and behavioral health, are available to uninsured patients at reduced cost for those who meet sliding-fee-scale income guidelines.

Delaying care can turn small issues into bigger ones. Starting now makes a real difference.

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Delaying care can turn small issues into bigger ones. Starting now makes a real difference.

What to Expect as a New Patient

How soon can you get an appointment?
New patient appointment timing can vary. Teams work to schedule patients as quickly as possible. Calling early gives you the best chance for availability.

Care That Meets You Where You Are

Languages
Services, interpretation, and financial counseling are available in multiple languages, including Spanish, to ensure patients feel comfortable and understood.

Location & Access
People’s Community Clinic serves Central Texas with multiple locations in the Austin area. Clinics are accessible by car and public transportation, and parking is available.

When you call, staff can help you find the location that works best for you.

 A Medical Home You Can Count On

For decades, People’s Community Clinic has provided trusted care for Central Texans, especially those seeking affordable options.

  • Affordable
  • High-quality
  • Respectful
  • Designed for your family

Join thousands of families who rely on People’s and schedule your care today.

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Join thousands of families who rely on People’s Community Clinic.

Get Started Today

Affordable healthcare for your family is available. Schedule now.

Call 512.478.4939 to schedule your appointment today.

Childhood Vaccinations & Immunizations at People’s Community Clinic

Posted on by Veronica de la Rosa

Childhood Vaccinations & Immunizations at People’s Community Clinic

Recent news has focused on childhood vaccines and immunizations. People’s providers want to clarify vaccines and the immunization process for children and teens at People’s Community Clinic (Peoples).
Staying up to date on recommended vaccines and immunizations not only protects your child but also protects babies, older adults, and others in the community who may be more vulnerable to illness.
At People’s Community Clinic, we understand that parents may have questions about vaccines. Our healthcare providers are here to provide trusted information, discuss any concerns, and help you make informed decisions about your child’s health.
Learn more about childhood vaccinations, recommended immunization schedules, and how vaccines help keep your family healthy by visiting our Childhood Vaccinations and Immunizations page.

People’s Community Clinic Launches New Community Resource Tool

Posted on by Veronica de la Rosa

It’s now easier than ever to find support near you.

Now it’s easier to get help outside your doctor’s office.

People’s Community Clinic has launched a new Community Resources tool that helps patients and families find local support by ZIP code. How easy!

Check it out here:

https://www.austinpcc.org/community-resources-near-me/

Support That Goes Beyond Healthcare

Health is more than just a clinic visit. Access to food, safe housing, transportation, and financial support all affect well-being. This tool quickly connects patients to these important services.

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Health is more than just a clinic visit. Access to food, safe housing, transportation, and financial support all affect well-being.

The tool, powered by Findhelp.org, lets users:

  • Search for nearby resources in seconds.
  • Explore programs that fit their needs.
  • Connect directly with local organizations.

There’s no guesswork or endless searching. This tool gives you help right when you need it.

Built for Real Life

Whether you’re going through a tough time or planning ahead, this tool meets you where you are. It’s simple, easy to use, and designed with dignity in mind. There should never be barriers when looking for support.

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At People’s, care goes beyond the clinic and reaches into the community, where it matters most.

Get Started

Patients and community members can explore resources anytime:
https://www.austinpcc.org/community-resources-near-me/

At People’s, care goes beyond the clinic and reaches into the community, where it matters most.