When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
RBJ Public Health Center
Why RBJ Public Health Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
RBJ Public Health Center, located at 15 Waller Street in Austin, Texas, is a prominent community health hub known for its accessible and dedicated sexual health and tuberculosis services. As part of Austin Public Health, RBJ provides a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment for individuals seeking care related to sexual health, including testing, diagnosis, and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), as well as HIV counseling and screening. The center operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering convenient hours for visitors. Key features that make RBJ Health Center a trusted place to meet health needs include wheelchair accessibility, customer parking, air conditioning, onsite restrooms, and WiFi, contributing to patient comfort and convenience. Notably, RBJ Health Center has been recognized as a Top Performer by the Human Rights Campaign in the Healthcare Equality Index, highlighting its comprehensive LGBTQ-inclusive policies such as non-discrimination, cultural competency training, employee benefits, and transgender health insurance coverage. This commitment to inclusivity and quality care makes RBJ a welcoming place to all community members. With affordable fees, approximately $20 for testing and treatment, and easy appointment scheduling, RBJ centers its mission on promoting health, preventing disease, and protecting community well-being, making it a vital cornerstone in Austin's public health landscape.
Here's what people think of RBJ Public Health Center
As of recent, RBJ Public Health Center holds a 4.1-star rating based on 62 reviews.
With a solid 4.1 rating based on 62 reviews, RBJ Public Health Center receives feedback reflecting varied patient experiences. Positive reviews frequently highlight the center's compassionate and knowledgeable staff who create a respectful and inclusive atmosphere, especially appreciated by LGBTQ+ patients. Many users commend the center for efficient services, affordable fees, and the availability of a full range of sexual health resources under one roof, which helps reduce stigma and promotes accessible care. The recognition by the Human Rights Campaign as a Top Performer in LGBTQ-inclusive care also reflects the positive internal practices that resonate with users. On the other hand, some less favorable reviews mention wait times and appointment availability challenges, which can occasionally hinder timely access to services. A few users suggest improvements in communication and administrative processes to streamline the experience further. Despite some criticisms, the overall consensus is that RBJ Public Health Center provides essential, high-quality care with a welcoming environment, making it a trusted resource for sexual health and tuberculosis services in Austin. This balance of strengths and areas for growth aligns with its role as a public health facility committed to community well-being and inclusivity.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Indira Starr
I had such a wonderful experience at this clinic! Getting tested here was even better than the clinic I went to where I paid $120. The staff were so welcoming and lovely, the wait time flew by, the blood sample was fast and efficient (a part that I usually dread), and overall I felt so taken care of and supported. Not only did I get tested for STI’s + STD’s but they also offered me very helpful and affordable resources so I can continue to take care of my health as a woman. All in all I’m leaving very happy!
Anna Beaty
Been coming here for years it’s so convenient and adorable I think $20-$25 for STI testing and if you have anything come up that price covers treatment as well. Super friendly and professional staff get tested people and tell your friends to do the same.
Mane Esca
Great place, people are very friendly and helpful. RBJ does care for your health and are always willing to help you and inform you on how to keep you safe. It’s very economical and Social Worker is also great.
Kate Ringer
Why would anyone rate this less than five stars? For only twenty dollars you can get a full STD panel done and receive treatment if you test positive. Even if you have insurance, it is probably much cheaper to get tested here. Everyone I met was wonderful. I was able to make an appointment easily online, but my partner told me you can also call and probably get a next-day appointment if necessary. I love this place!!!
Cat Natty
Really good experience. Everyone was kind and informative, particularly the cashier, Anne. Thank you for the care.
How to reach RBJ Public Health Center
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Website: None
Why RBJ Public Health Center may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at RBJ Public Health Center with your friends?
If you and your friends are looking for a meaningful and health-conscious way to come together, the RBJ Public Health Center in Austin is a unique and thoughtful destination. While often thought of solely as a clinical facility, this center offers more than medical services; it provides a supportive and educational environment where groups can rally around health awareness, preventative care, and community well-being. Gathering with friends here means engaging in activities that promote health—whether it’s getting tested, receiving counseling, or learning about crucial public health topics in a welcoming, safe space. The center’s accessible, well-equipped facilities with amenities like air conditioning, free WiFi, parking, and wheelchair accessibility create a comfortable atmosphere where groups can feel at ease. Furthermore, at a rating of 4.1 from 62 reviews, many visitors appreciate the professionalism and supportive atmosphere, making it a reliable place for groups to plan their visit. Rallying here is a powerful way to support each other’s well-being, have important conversations about health, and encourage responsible, informed lifestyle choices in a group setting.
What activities can groups do at RBJ Public Health Center?
The RBJ Public Health Center offers a range of activities suited to groups interested in health promotion and education. The primary services include HIV testing and counseling, STI screenings, tuberculosis testing and treatment, and health education workshops. These services are available at an affordable fee of around $20 or through insurance and public health programs. Friends or family groups can schedule appointments together to receive confidential testing for HIV, hepatitis C, syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. The center also distributes free condoms and provides partner notification services, supporting responsible sexual health practices within your group. Beyond testing, educational programs about HIV/AIDS prevention, hepatitis prevention, and STI treatment offer a knowledge-rich experience that can empower your group to make informed health choices. The presence of bilingual staff fluent in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese helps ensure clear communication for diverse groups. With counseling sessions available, groups can explore more personal health discussions with professional support, fostering an open and supportive atmosphere. Having these essential health services in one center makes it a practical and efficient meet-up spot for groups interested in promoting wellness collectively.
Why is RBJ Public Health Center ideal for a group meetup?
RBJ Public Health Center is perfectly suited for groups because it combines health services with community-oriented features that encourage collaboration and education. The facility’s location in downtown Austin is convenient for locals and visitors alike, with ample parking making arrival hassle-free for groups traveling together. Inside, air conditioning and clean restrooms ensure comfort during your visit. The center’s commitment to accessibility means wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges can navigate the facility with ease, allowing whole groups to participate. Scheduling appointments online or by phone simplifies coordinating visits for groups, and the center’s consistent hours—Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a lunch closure—fit well with most schedules. This organization promotes inclusivity by serving a broad demographic, including low-income individuals, at-risk persons, and different ethnic communities, making it a welcoming space for groups of varied backgrounds. Meeting here supports a shared sense of responsibility and health advocacy, reinforcing bonds as group members learn and take care of themselves and each other.
What amenities does RBJ Public Health Center provide to enhance group visits?
Several amenities at RBJ Public Health Center enhance the experience for groups hosting meetups there. Free WiFi access allows visitors to stay connected or gather information online while waiting or discussing health topics. Air conditioning provides a comfortable climate indoors, important in Texas’ warm weather, especially for larger groups. Convenient parking spots are available for customers, easing the stress of finding a place to leave multiple vehicles during the visit. Restroom facilities are clean and accessible, accommodating the basic needs for groups of friends or families. Importantly, the center is fully wheelchair accessible, enabling participation by people with disabilities without barriers. These thoughtful amenities demonstrate the center’s focus on guest comfort and accessibility, which helps foster a relaxed environment conducive to learning and support during health-focused meetups. Additionally, staff members are trained to assist and communicate compassionately in multiple languages, further enhancing the welcoming atmosphere for diverse groups.
How can a group maximize their visit to RBJ Public Health Center?
To get the most out of a group visit to RBJ Public Health Center, planning ahead is key. First, schedule your clinic appointments online or by phone to secure times that work for everyone. Coordinating group visits allows members to support each other during screenings, counseling, and educational sessions, reducing anxiety around health topics. Arriving early enables your group to settle in comfortably, take advantage of the amenities, and gather any educational materials the center offers. During the visit, engage actively in counseling and prevention education to boost collective health knowledge. Groups can also make use of partner notification and free condom distribution services to encourage ongoing safe practices beyond the visit. Following up after your visit by sharing what you learned and encouraging regular testing promotes group wellness long-term. Finally, respecting the center’s guidelines and space creates a positive environment for other visitors and staff, highlighting your group’s role in community health support.
What unique services at RBJ Public Health Center support community health?
RBJ Public Health Center offers specialized services that emphasize community health and prevention. In addition to standard HIV and STI testing, the center provides tuberculosis (TB) testing and treatment, a vital service given the public health risks associated with TB. Their epidemiologic approach includes partner notification and case management, helping to reduce disease spread within the community. The center also offers pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a preventive medication for people at risk of HIV infection, which demonstrates their commitment to forward-thinking health strategies. Counseling and education services go beyond clinical care by addressing social and behavioral factors that influence health outcomes. Free hepatitis C testing and prevention education further expand their community impact. These comprehensive, integrated services not only help individual patients but also actively contribute to controlling infectious diseases within Austin, making it a hub for community-centered public health efforts.
What is the community reputation and feedback for RBJ Public Health Center?
Rated 4.1 out of 5 based on 62 reviews, the RBJ Public Health Center holds a solid reputation within the Austin community. Visitors frequently praise the center for its professional and compassionate staff, who are reported to provide knowledgeable care and helpful counseling with respect and sensitivity. Many appreciate the affordability of services and the ease of scheduling appointments, which are often cited as reasons they return or recommend the center to others. Accessibility features and the clean, well-maintained facilities also earn positive comments. While some reviews note occasional waits or crowded conditions during busy periods, the overall sentiment is that the center is an important and reliable resource for sexual health and public health services. For groups, this reputation builds trust that their visit will be handled professionally and that their health concerns will be taken seriously within a supportive environment.
What practical tips should groups know before visiting RBJ Public Health Center?
Before visiting as a group, it helps to understand a few practical details about the RBJ Public Health Center. The clinic operates Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., with a one-hour closure midday, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid the lunch break. Appointments are recommended and can be conveniently made online or by phone at 512-972-5430; walk-ins are less predictable, especially for larger groups. The center accepts insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, sliding scale fees, and also offers low-cost options with a testing fee around $20, making it affordable for most groups. Bringing valid identification and health insurance cards, if applicable, will streamline your check-in process. Since services include sensitive health screenings, privacy and confidentiality are guaranteed, so group members should be prepared for private one-on-one consultations though mutual support while waiting is encouraged. Finally, wearing comfortable clothing and arranging transportation to the center’s downtown Austin location with available parking will ensure a smooth and stress-free visit.
Why is RBJ Public Health Center relevant for hosting meetups despite being a health facility?
While the RBJ Public Health Center’s core mission is clinical care and public health, its community-focus and multifaceted services make it a relevant and valuable site for hosting meetups centered on health awareness and social support. Gathering here with friends or family creates opportunities for collective health advocacy and education—activities that strengthen bonds through shared meaningful experiences. It transforms a routine health visit into a group wellness event, helping normalize discussions about sexual health, testing, and prevention within social networks. The center’s inclusive atmosphere, bilingual staff, and accessibility make it an inviting place, not just for individuals but for small groups seeking to grow healthier together. Additionally, combining social interaction with proactive health care can encourage responsibility while reducing stigma. In this way, RBJ Public Health Center is more than a clinic; it is a community hub where people can rally around well-being, learn, and support one another in a purposeful way.
What nearby attractions can groups enjoy around RBJ Public Health Center?
After completing their appointments or educational sessions, groups meeting at RBJ Public Health Center can enjoy several appealing nearby attractions for a more rounded meetup experience. Located at 15 Waller Street in downtown Austin, the center sits close to popular spots such as the Central Market, offering gourmet food options and a lively market atmosphere. Nearby is the Fairmont Austin hotel, which features dining and event spaces if your group wants to continue socializing in comfort. For those interested in entertainment, the Moody Center provides concerts and events, just a short walk away. Shopping enthusiasts can visit Barton Creek Square Mall or Costco for retail therapy. Additionally, the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and The Domain retail district are conveniently accessible for visitors traveling from out of town. Having all these options nearby means groups can plan a health-focused meetup followed by relaxed social time, making the RBJ Public Health Center a practical and enjoyable starting point for a complete day out.