A significant initiative between the University of Houston (UH) and Lone Star Circle Of Care (LSCC) is set to dramatically improve access to vital healthcare services for residents in Houston. Beginning Monday, April 1, 2019, a new community-based Federally Qualified Health Center, operated by Lone Star Circle of Care, opened its doors at the University of Houston. This center is dedicated to delivering comprehensive, high-quality primary and behavioral health care to the South Central Houston community. Strategically located in the Health 2 Building, which temporarily houses the emerging UH College of Medicine, this collaboration underscores both LSCC’s and UH’s deep commitment to integrated health solutions, enhanced health outcomes, and an improved quality of life for underserved populations, particularly within the Third Ward.
Addressing Critical Healthcare Needs in South Central Houston
The establishment of Lone Star Circle of Care at the University of Houston directly responds to the pressing need for accessible and affordable primary and behavioral health services in the South Central Houston area. Available data indicates that residents in this region experience disproportionately higher rates of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension compared to the broader Houston population. This disparity highlights the urgent requirement for improved healthcare access to effectively prevent, manage, and treat both physical and behavioral health conditions within the community. Providing a consistent healthcare home is the crucial first step in dismantling these health disparities. Lone Star Circle of Care at the University of Houston is equipped with dedicated family medicine, pediatric, and behavioral health teams, all ready to provide patient-centered care.
Lone Star Circle of Care at University of Houston: Integrated and Accessible Services
“LSCC is thrilled to pioneer a model of care at the University of Houston,” stated Rhonda Mundhenk, CEO of LSCC, emphasizing the synergy between “our Federally Qualified Health Center’s innovation and expertise in serving underserved populations with the academic and clinical strengths of a forward-thinking institution like the University of Houston.” She further noted the invaluable opportunity for UH student learners. “Partnering on the University of Houston campus allows students to directly contribute to improving the health of the Third Ward while gaining practical training in a cutting-edge clinical setting, and to actively participate in reducing health inequalities within the University’s surrounding community.”
Integrated Care Model for Holistic Patient Support
Lone Star Circle of Care at the University of Houston is an integral part of the LSCC network, renowned for its high-quality, integrated care model. This approach ensures that patients’ physical and behavioral health needs are addressed concurrently within a unified clinical system. LSCC’s medical and behavioral health providers collaboratively manage patient care through shared electronic health records, ensuring a seamless and coordinated healthcare experience. This integrated care philosophy is also central to the mission of the UH College of Medicine, which is dedicated to training more primary care physicians to combat the national shortage. Faculty from the medical school and other health disciplines will actively serve as clinicians at the new health center. By co-locating primary and behavioral health providers, the center fosters truly coordinated, patient-centered care.
A Collaborative Approach to Healthcare Education and Community Well-being
Dr. Stephen J. Spann, vice president for medical affairs and founding dean of the UH College of Medicine, highlighted the operational advantages of this partnership. “Collaborating with an established Federally Qualified Health Center like Lone Star Circle of Care enables federal reimbursements from Medicare and Medicaid. Moreover, by utilizing a sliding scale fee structure for uninsured patients, we can extend care to a broader population. This perfectly aligns with our mission to positively impact the region’s health.” Dr. Spann also underscored the educational benefits: “This center provides a significant teaching environment for medical, nursing, social work, pharmacy, clinical psychology, optometry, and even law students. They will have the unique opportunity to observe and participate in this innovative care model under the guidance of experienced, licensed practitioners.”
Convenient Location and Easy Access to Care
Lone Star Circle of Care at the University of Houston is conveniently located in the Health 2 Building at 4849 Calhoun Road, Suite 1001A, Houston, Texas 77204-6066. New patients can easily schedule appointments by calling 1-877-800-5722. The center accepts most insurance plans and public programs. For individuals without insurance, a sliding fee scale is available, based on household income and size, ensuring affordability. LSCC also provides assistance with enrollment in Medicaid, CHIP, Marketplace, SNAP, and other qualifying programs.
About Lone Star Circle of Care
Established in 2001 in Georgetown, Texas, Lone Star Circle of Care (LSCC) is a distinguished Federally Qualified Health Center committed to delivering exceptional, patient-focused healthcare to communities throughout Texas. LSCC currently serves over 85,000 patients, offering a wide range of services for adults, seniors, and children, including primary care, women’s health and OB/GYN, psychiatry and behavioral health, general dentistry, optometry, and pharmacy services. As a registered 501(c)3 Texas non-profit corporation, LSCC is dedicated to its mission of community health improvement. For further details, please visit www.lonestarcares.org.
In conclusion, the partnership between the University of Houston and Lone Star Circle of Care represents a crucial step forward in enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality in South Central Houston. By combining the strengths of both institutions, this new health center promises to be a vital resource for the community, offering integrated, affordable, and comprehensive care while also serving as a valuable training ground for future healthcare professionals.
