MARIETTA — As students return to school in the Marietta and Belpre districts, they’ll find new health services right in their classrooms. This initiative comes from a partnership with Akron Children’s Hospital.
The Akron Children’s School-Based Health Center (SBHC) makes healthcare more accessible. With a parent’s approval, a nurse practitioner is available to provide various medical services, either in person or through telehealth.
Mary Schatz, the clinical nurse manager at Akron Children’s, explained how this works. If a student has ear pain, for example, the nurse can check it on-site or via a video call. If an ear infection is found, the nurse can send a prescription straight to a pharmacy. This service saves families time and helps students avoid missing school.
“SBHC is a proven way to keep kids healthy and ready for school,” said Brad Cunningham, senior director at Akron Children’s. The center focuses on treating minor illnesses like colds, allergies, and rashes, allowing children to stay in class and minimize disruptions.
Stacey Greenup, the lead certified nurse practitioner for Marietta and Belpre schools, will work alongside medical assistants in each school. They’ll be able to offer annual check-ups, vision and hearing screenings, sports physicals, and vaccinations. Additionally, they can screen students for anxiety or depression and refer them to mental health professionals if needed.
Akron Children’s serves 44 school districts in Ohio, providing school-based health services to 17 of those. This development aligns with trends showing that school health centers improve student attendance and performance. A 2022 survey found that schools with health services see an increase in student engagement and a decrease in drop-out rates.
Schatz emphasizes the importance of school nursing: “It’s about caring for kids and ensuring they’re ready to learn.” This new service is a valuable addition to the Marietta and Belpre communities, making healthcare more accessible for families.
For more details, you can visit Akron Children’s School Health Services or call 330-543-7242.
Source link
Business,Akron Children’s to provide health services in Marietta, Belpre schoolsCommunity News,Akron Children’s to provide health services in Marietta, Belpre schoolsLocal News,Akron Children’s to provide health services in Marietta, Belpre schoolsNews,Akron Children’s to provide health services in Marietta, Belpre schools
