wellness
Austin Residents Access Affordable Health Screenings Through Low-Cost Clinics
A breakdown of low-cost clinics, testing services, and health coverage programs available to Travis County residents.
How we reported this
Austin residents have several options for affordable health care, from low-cost screenings at the RBJ Public Health Center to sliding-scale clinics run by CommUnityCare and Central Health. Whether you need a routine checkup, an STI test, or mental health support, these publicly funded services are designed to make care accessible regardless of income.
Affordable Screenings at RBJ Public Health Center
Austin Public Health offers free or low-cost health screenings for tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and sexually transmitted infections at the RBJ Public Health Center, located at 15 Waller St. Testing costs are set at $20 for standard STI/HIV tests and TB blood tests, according to the city's health department website [1][6]. The center is a key resource for uninsured and underinsured residents who need confidential testing without a hefty price tag.
Primary Care and Walk-In Clinics
Central Health operates the Southeast Health & Wellness Center at 2901 Montopolis Dr., providing primary care, a convenient care clinic open 7am-8pm Monday through Saturday, plus dental, pharmacy, and lab services [2]. For more locations, CommUnityCare runs multiple Austin clinics, including the East Austin Health Center at 211 Comal St., open 8am-5pm weekdays, and Hancock Walk-In Care at 1000 E. 41st St., which offers Sunday-Monday hours from 7am-8pm [3]. Riverside and Southbrook clinics also provide medical and dental care through the same network.
Health Coverage for Travis County Residents
For those who qualify financially, Central Health's Medical Access Program (MAP) provides local health coverage covering primary care, prescriptions, specialty care, and hospital visits [4]. MAP is available to Travis County residents who meet income guidelines and lack other insurance. The program aims to fill gaps for low-income adults who do not qualify for Medicaid or Medicare.
Mental Health and Substance Use Support
Integral Care serves Travis County residents with low-cost counseling and mental health services for substance use disorders, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and mental health conditions [5]. The organization operates multiple sites across Austin and offers a 24-hour crisis hotline. Services are provided on a sliding fee scale, making them accessible regardless of insurance status.
For any health concern, residents are encouraged to consult a personal physician or contact these agencies directly for the most current hours and eligibility requirements. Prices and availability may change, so calling ahead is recommended.