Healthy kids do better in school. Research shows that school-based care plays a critical role ensuring kids can stay healthy and learn. Thanks to collaboration and vision from our state leaders, Utah is making strides to help more children connect with care at school.
- During the 2019 Legislative Session, schools received new funding to increase school-based mental health services, including school nurses. School nurses can help identify a mental health condition before it escalates and connect kids with appropriate care.
- Utah is one of a handful of states currently exploring innovative ways to leverage Medicaid funding in schools. By leveraging Medicaid, schools could access additional funding to offer preventive health services such as dental care or mental health services.
- Schools help enroll kids in affordable health insurance. School-based Medicaid/ CHIP outreach and enrollment support is one of the most important ways kids can connect with coverage. Learn more about getting enrollment support at your school!
- School-based clinics, or school-based health programs, are critical ways to help kids access care. For example, school-based oral health programs help ensure kids get preventive dental care. Oral health pain is one of the top reasons kids miss school. New policies, such as teledentistry reimbursement, can ensure the long-term sustainability of school-based health care programs.
