Healthcare access in Aransas Pass is entering a new phase, as multiple medical providers expand services to meet growing community needs. After years of limited options following the closure of the city’s only hospital in 2019, residents will soon benefit from more convenient and affordable care—without the need to travel the city.
New Urgent Care Facility Breaks Ground
A major step forward is underway off Wheeler Street, where a new urgent care clinic is currently under construction. The facility, operated by StatCare Urgent Care, marks a significant investment in restoring local healthcare access.
Katherine Rabagos, owner of StatCare Urgent Care, is leading the expansion across the Coastal Bend region. As a family nurse practitioner, she emphasizes that improving access in underserved areas remains central to her mission.
Bringing Care Closer to Home
Rabagos explains that many residents in smaller communities often face unnecessary barriers when seeking basic medical attention. Long travel times and higher costs in larger cities can delay treatment.
To address this, the new clinic will provide walk-in services, including vaccinations, medical evaluations, and prescription support. By offering these essential services locally, the facility aims to reduce wait times and improve patient outcomes.
Moreover, affordability remains a key priority. While the national average for urgent care visits ranges from $120 to $150, StatCare plans to offer services at approximately $85 per visit. This pricing model is especially beneficial for uninsured patients, ensuring that cost does not prevent access to timely care.
Addressing a Critical Healthcare Gap
The need for expanded healthcare services in Aransas Pass has been urgent since the hospital closure in 2019, which followed the devastating impact of Hurricane Harvey. Since then, residents have had to rely heavily on nearby cities like Corpus Christi for even basic medical needs.
Local Leaders Highlight Urgency
City Councilmember Ruth Camarillo Smith, a former nurse, underscores the importance of restoring healthcare infrastructure. She notes that the absence of emergency and urgent care services has created significant challenges for both residents and visitors.
According to Smith, the arrival of StatCare represents a historic milestone for the community. It signals progress toward rebuilding a healthcare system that can adequately serve the local population.
However, she also acknowledges that gaps remain. Services such as long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and specialized support for seniors and individuals with disabilities are still lacking. As a result, city leaders continue to advocate for further investment in these areas.
Amistad Health Expands Services
In addition to the new urgent care facility, Amistad Health is also playing a vital role in strengthening healthcare access in Aransas Pass. Since opening in 2021, the clinic has steadily expanded its offerings to meet increasing demand.
New Specialties and Services
Under the leadership of CEO Dr. Eric Baggerman, Amistad Health has recently introduced nephrology services and added a new adult care provider. These additions address critical gaps, particularly in adult healthcare, which has been in short supply locally.
Furthermore, the clinic plans to expand its behavioral health services by hiring an additional licensed counselor. This move reflects a growing recognition of the importance of mental health care alongside physical health services.
By broadening its scope, Amistad Health is helping create a more comprehensive healthcare network within the city.
A Promising Future for Local Healthcare
As healthcare providers continue to invest in Aransas Pass, the outlook for residents is steadily improving. New facilities and expanded services will reduce reliance on neighboring cities while enhancing the overall quality of care.
Importantly, these developments also support economic growth. Access to reliable healthcare can attract new residents and businesses, further strengthening the community.
What Comes Next?
The groundbreaking ceremony for the StatCare Urgent Care facility is scheduled for April 20, marking the official start of construction. As the project moves forward, residents can anticipate more timely and affordable healthcare options in the near future.
While challenges remain, the momentum is clear. With continued collaboration between healthcare providers and local leaders, Aransas Pass is on track to rebuild and expand its medical infrastructure—one step at a time.