School-based health centers (SBHCs) are medical clinics that offer health care to children and youth either in a school or on school grounds. SBHCs have primary care providers such as doctors, nurse practitioners and physician assistants as well as mental health providers. Some SBHCs also have dental providers.
SBHCs funded by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) provide services to children and youth who attend the school and are within the school district. Services can include:
- Well-child exams.
- Sick visits.
- Health screenings.
- Immunizations.
- Mental health and other counseling.
- Substance use screening.
- Oral health screening.
- Reproductive health services.
- Classroom/school-wide health education or promotion activities.
SBHCs are convenient. Many centers offer same-day appointments or permit walk-ins. Another benefit SBHCs offer is that parents and guardians do not have to take time off work and students spend less time away from school.