Our Programs
We offer technical assistance, training and resources to the school-based healthcare network.
Our Mission
Optimize health outcomes and education equity for young people in Minnesota through access to integrated health care in schools.
Our Impact
School-Based Health Centers (SBHCs) are a transformational and evidence-based approach for delivering healthcare to children and young people. School-based health means students K-12 can get a flu shot, have an annual physical, have their teeth examined, have their eyes checked, or speak to a mental health counselor in a safe, nurturing place. SBHCs offer support to families without the barriers they too often face, assuring all kids can enjoy their health and thrive in school.
10,000+
Students served in minnesota
29
(and growing) Locations
50
Years of service in community
What is a School-Based Clinic?
“School-Based Health Center” means a safety net health care delivery model that is located in or near a school, and offers holistic medical care - including preventative and behavioral health services provided by licensed health professionals. All students within a school or district can access care regardless of ability to pay, insurance coverage, or immigration status. SBHCs are operated in agreement between a school district and a health care organization.
School nurses and school-based health centers have a distinct and complimentary function, and work together to advance the health and well-being of students.
Fractured Access
When Minneapolis students answered survey question: “If your school did not have a health center, what would you have done to take care of your health problem today?”
45% responded that they would have done “Nothing,” or “I’m not sure.”
10% reported they would have gone to an ER or hospital.
Only 27% reported they would have gone to another Doctor or Nurse.
increasing mental healthcare needs
The MN Student Survey 2022 demonstrated kids who report long-term mental health problems continues to increase over the past 5 years - now reaching 29%.
We fill a vital role for students with unmet needs and fractured access to care.
What do kids say?
“I like how nice everyone is in the clinic because they show so much respect… and they always make sure you have everything you need.”
“I liked how I was able to get all my questions answered, even if it was not about my health condition.”
“Me trataron con amibilidad.”
(Translation: “They treated me with kindness.”)
We are an affiliate of the National School-Based Health Alliance.
Read about the Core Competencies of all School-Based Health Centers.
