New Federal Toolkit Links Health & Education
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Education have joined forces to create a toolkit, Healthy Students, Promising Futures, for local schools and partners to improve school-based health – expressly calling out the important role of school-based health centers (SBHCs). We’re excited to see the secretaries recognize the importance of linking health and education, something the school-based health care field has long understood. This toolkit and guidance will boost local efforts to improve school-based health care. Many of the recommendations directly relate the programs and policies we’re advancing in California:
High-Impact Opportunity #1: Help eligible students and family members enroll in health insurance. Learn about the All-In Campaign and download materials to help your students and families enroll in health coverage.
High-Impact Opportunity #2: Provide and expand reimbursable health services in schools. California is implementing the recent change to the free care rule that will allow school districts to increase federal reimbursement for school health services. Learn more about our efforts to support this work.
High-Impact Opportunity #3: Provide or expand services that support at-risk students. We’re working with school-based health centers in Oakland and West Contra Costa to address trauma.
High-Impact Opportunity #4: Promote healthy school practices through nutrition, physical activity, and health education. We have been at the forefront of efforts to improve school wellness policies and programs in California. Gather resources for improved nutrition and physical activity.
High-Impact Opportunity #5: Build local partnerships to support expanded health services like school-based health centers. Check out our comprehensive resource section on how to start and operate SBHCs.