Primary & Community Care

At UTRGV School of Medicine, the Department of Primary & Community Care provides comprehensive clinical care, medical education, and community-engaged research to individuals, families, and communities across the Rio Grande Valley. Educating and inspiring the next generation of physicians is at the heart of our mission and central to our efforts to improve the health of our region.

We bring together expertise in family medicine, internal medicine, women's and children's health, integrated behavioral health, population health, residency education, and innovative research. Through strong community partnerships, including our community faculty and Area Health Education Centers (AHECs), we expand access to care, advance health equity, and address the unique needs of the Rio Grande Valley.

Our People

Our faculty, staff, residents, and students are united by a shared commitment to service, excellence, and improving lives. The Rio Grande Valley continues to face physician shortages and significant health disparities, yet our border region is also a place of innovation, resilience, and opportunity. As UTRGV School of Medicine celebrates its first decade of impact, our momentum continues to grow. Together, we are advancing the health of South Texas while preparing the next generation of physicians, scientists, and healthcare leaders. “V’s up!”

A Message from the Department Chair

As someone who grew up in the Rio Grande Valley, built a career in primary care, and raised a family here, I am deeply honored to serve as Chair of the Department of Primary & Community Care.

Working alongside our outstanding teams in patient care, education, and research is both a privilege and a source of inspiration. Every day, I see the dedication of individuals who are committed to improving the health of our communities and creating opportunities for future generations.

I invite you to explore our stories, newsletters, and annual awards celebrations featured throughout our website. Whether you are a prospective student, resident, faculty member, community partner, patient, or supporter, I hope you find a connection to our mission and join us in advancing the health and well-being of the Rio Grande Valley.

Lastly, as John Maxwell noted, “Nothing of significance was ever achieved by an individual acting alone.” The accomplishments of our department reflect the efforts of many individuals working toward a shared purpose. I am particularly grateful for the leadership of Christina Mendoza, Department Administrator, and Xavier Duran, Clinical Service Line Administrator, whose partnership and commitment help turn vision into reality.

• Community Health Partnerships
• Integrated Behavioral Health
• Population Health
• Primary & Preventive Care
• Women's & Children's Health

Graduate Medical Education Programs

• Family Medicine Residency at Harlingen
• Family Medicine Residency at Knapp Medical Center

• Maternal Health Research Center
• Population Health

• Area Health Education Center (AHEC)
• Employee Health
• Student Health
• Primary & Preventative Care
• Women's & Children's Health
  • Women's Health
  • Pediatrics

Clinical Sites

• UniMovil
• UT Health RGV AHEC Primary Care (Bob Clark)
• UT Health RGV AHEC Primary Care (La Victoria)
• UT Health RGV AHEC Primary Care (San Carlos) 
• UT Health RGV Employee Health (Harlingen)
• UT Health RGV Multispecialty (McAllen)
• UT Health RGV Primary Care (Edinburg)
• UT Health RGV Primary Care (Harlingen)
• UT Health RGV Primary Care (Weslaco)
• UT Health RGV Student & Employee Health (Edinburg)
• UT Health RGV Student Health (Brownsville)
• UT Health RGV Student Run Clinic (Proyecto Desarrollo in Peñitas)
• UT Health RGV Women and Children's Clinic