Information for Partners
The Central Health Enterprise (Central Health, CommUnityCare Health Centers, Sendero Health Plans) is closely following the developing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak in our region and will post news and information most pertinent to our partners on this page. You can find social media toolkits, media contacts, COA resources, and information about health insurance here. Austin Public Health is our local public health authority and is leading efforts to research, gather, and disseminate information to the community. For the latest news and information, please visit the APH website at austintexas.gov/COVID19.
Don't Let Your Guard Down Resource Kit
We’ve created messaging, social media graphics, and post copy for partners to use to inform the community and prevent the spread of COVID‑19. Please tag @CentralHealthTX on social media when posting graphics from our COVID‑19 resource toolkit.
Mecia Contact Information
For media requests, please contact Vice President of Communications Ted Burton at 512.978.8214 or via email at [email protected]
Central Health’s offices are located at 1111 E. Cesar Chavez St., Austin, TX 78702.
512.978.8000
Health Insurance
Getting Health Insurance through the ACA Marketplace
As a result of containment measures being taken to minimize spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), many Travis County residents are losing their jobs, their income, and their health insurance. If these life changes happen to you or someone in your household, you could get health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance Marketplace.
- The Health Insurance Marketplace offers special enrollment periods for:
- Loss of qualifying health coverage
- Changes in household income – meaning loss of a job
- Changes in your household size
- Change in residence
- Change in status
If you are currently enrolled in a Health Insurance Marketplace plan, and your income changes, contact the Marketplace to report the change. You could be eligible for a tax credit.
Call 1-800-318-2596 or visit healthcare.gov.
Foundation Communities also provides assistance with Health Insurance Marketplace applications (by appointment over the phone). Below are various ways you can schedule appointments for assistance to determine if you have qualifying events and are eligible for a Special Enrollment Period:
- Via the following link: https://booknow.appointment-plus.com/yr4hl26q/
- Leave a voicemail message at 512.381.4520
- Email: [email protected]
- Call 2-1-1
As of today, Foundation Communities is not providing tax services. Due to the current situation, all in person services have been temporarily suspended. Foundation Communities is working on implementing a virtual process for tax assistance.
Important Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information for Medical Access Program (MAP) Eligibility
In-person interviews for Central Health’s Medical Access Program (MAP) have been suspended in response to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
Individuals can apply for MAP one of 3 ways
- Online: Go to www.apply4map.net
- Over the phone by calling 512-978-8130
- Download a paper application below
Download a paper application-ENGLISH
Download a paper application-SPANISH
Complete and submit the application in the following ways:
- By Mail :
Medical Access Program
PO Box 300489
Austin TX 78703 - By Fax:
512-776-0457 - By Email:
[email protected]
(Note: applications and documents sent through a client’s email may not be secure)
Individuals experiencing homelessness will still be seen at the eligibility office at Central Health Southeast Health & Wellness Center, 2901 Montopolis Drive.
We are monitoring the situation closely. There may come a time when we will be unable to see anyone in-person and will ask that all applications be done by phone. Please check our website prior to coming into the an office for the most up to date information.
Non-Citizens/Non-Legal Permanent Residents
Even if you are not a U.S. citizen or legal U.S. permanent resident, you should get tested and treated if needed. COVID-19-related care will not hurt your immigration application, and it is okay if a government program pays for your care.
More Options
If you or someone in your household is being affected by income or health insurance loss, you may also be eligible for local health coverage programs such as the Medical Access Program (MAP), Medicaid, or Children’s Health Insurance Plan (CHIP). In Travis County, call Central Health at 512-978-8130 to see what program may work for you.
