How school-based health clinic will help students
Have you ever thought about the difference in your work productivity between the days you are feeling your best versus the days you are under the weather? It is safe to say that most people experience more productive days when they are feeling physically and mentally well. Which then leads to the question, is there a correlation between a student’s overall health and academic performance?
The short answer is, yes! Medical and behavioral concerns can interfere with a student’s learning. Early detection of medical needs with prompt intervention can increase academic success. Consistent research in this area has led to the development of School Based Health Clinics. SBHCs increase the access to healthcare and allow students to acquire primary health care, preventive services, and counseling while at school. The convenience of SBHCs reduces the time away from work for parents, as well as the student’s time away from class.
Northridge Local Schools has a partnership with Primary
Health Solutions, a community-driven nonprofit healthcare agency. This partnership has led to on-site behaviorists that provide counseling to students.
Now, we are excited to announce students will have access to medical care. Through the Primary Health Solutions partnership, a new SBHC is opening up their doors to Northridge students. This clinic will be led by pediatric nurse practitioner Alicia Napier, who is also uniquely the school district’s nurse. The goal for this new medical service is to diagnose and treat ill students and to fill the gap when students need a well-child exam or sports physical all while at school.
Opening day for the clinic was Jan. 17. In order for a student to have access to the medical or counseling services offered, a Primary Health Solutions packet must be completed by a parent or guardian. If parents are interested in obtaining this consent packet, please call the school clinic at 937-2757469, ext. 2148. The school clinic staff will then ensure a paper copy is sent home with their child.