myhaam.org
Lifestyle
Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM) Reaches Out
By |
In early 2005, a group of Austin area musicians and friends in the music industry came together to bring a
solution to a growing problem. They knew the ever growing gap in healthcare options for working musicians
was widening but they found a way to bridge that gap. Their creation, the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians
(HAAM), is the answer for low-income Austin musicians who find their work with their passion may not always
allow for preventative or unexpected medical costs.
The Mission
Photo: myhaam.orgTheir mission was simple, but overwhelming; to provide access to affordable healthcare to Austin’s
low-income, uninsured working musicians. A year after forming the idea, several entities
came together to make the dream a reality. SETON Healthcare Network came aboard as a
way to provide primary medical care, St. David’s Community Health Foundation joined to
provide basic dental care, and the SIMS Foundation is there to provide mental health counseling. In the
years since their inception, HAAM has been joined by Estes Audiology and Capital Area Dental
Foundation.
Services Offered
Photo: Services are available for a range of conditions. From low cost primary care services, mental health counseling,
dental services, and even audiology; HAAM has residents of Travis County, or residents in the surrounding 50
mile radius, covered. Eligibility requirements vary based on the services needed, but the baseline indicates the
patient must live in Travis County or surrounding areas and be able to have three references verifying they are
an actively working musician in the area. Over the years, HAAM has helped over 4,000 musicians get the care
they need. See their website for a complete breakdown of how they can help you, or call them today at ![]()
(512) 322-5177.
How to get Involved
Photo: myhaam.orgThere are many ways to get involved with HAAM to support their mission. There are various benefit concerts
throughout the year that benefit the organization. There is also a community of young Austin professionals
under 40 called Good Eggs & HAAM. They value the asset of life music and the musicians that create their art.
This, coupled with a desire to give back to those musicians, spurs their passion to educate others about HAAM
and their mission while organizing events in the community. You can also donate to HAAM monetarily
knowing that every $1 donation turns into $7 worth of healthcare services for HAAM members due to the
gracious community sponsors and healthcare partners.
