School-Based Health Centers (SBHC)
“It’s a safe place for students.” –Texas School Administrator
School-Based Health Centers (SBHC)
A school-based health center is a facility providing preventive and primary health care services to children and adolescents located on or near a school campus. A SBHC is staffed by a multidisciplinary team that may include nurse practitioners, physicians, clinical social workers, psychologists, nutritionists, dentists, dental hygienists and/or administrators. Each center meets the needs of the local community, but they all share common characteristics:
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Serve students with a focus on underserved populations
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Reduce health disparities to improve student health
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Are accessible with a convenient location in a familiar setting
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Provide high-quality primary care with an emphasis on prevention
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Provide chronic disease management to decrease absences
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Ensure continuity of care, building relationships with students
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Refer students to community providers when diagnoses are beyond the scope of the SBHCs
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Are culturally sensitive and meet the needs of the local population through community input
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Work with staff to reduce health-related barriers to achievement and promote healthy development
What SBHCs offer:
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Immunizations (vaccines)
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Well-child exams
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Sports physicals
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Acute care for minor illnesses and injuries
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Management of chronic illnesses
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Dental screenings, treatments, and referrals
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Mental health services
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Basic health education
Read about the benefits of SBHCs, our history and view helpful resources.
“As a parent and a teacher, I think it is an absolutely wonderful service being provided to students in our district.” –Texas Parent and Teacher
Related links:
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Center for School, Health and Education - SBHCs role in Preventing Dropout, Health and Well-being, School Climate, Hunger and Obesity, School Violence
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National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP)