UnitedHealthcare Community Plan's Investment in Student Health
In a bold effort to enhance student health and well-being, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of New Mexico has unveiled an impressive $250,000 investment. This funding is designed to improve integrated health care services in schools, partnering with Goodside Health—a provider dedicated to ensuring students have access to essential physical and behavioral health services.
Collaborative Efforts with Local School Districts
This initiative is set to benefit schools across various districts, including Cibola County Schools, which serves over 3,000 students in 12 schools, and Bloomfield School District, catering to more than 2,500 students across seven schools. These districts were specifically chosen due to their ongoing provider shortages that delay students' access to necessary health care.
Quote from Leadership
Andrew Peterson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of New Mexico, expressed the importance of this initiative, stating, “Expanding access to primary care and mental health services for our school children is vital to building a healthier New Mexico.” He highlighted that this collaboration will make it easier for students to receive the care they need, which ultimately supports their health and academic accomplishments.
Services Offered to Students
This program ensures that participating schools incur no start-up costs, making these vital services more accessible. Importantly, students at these schools can access care regardless of their insurance coverage. With this funding, Goodside Health is set to provide a comprehensive array of school-based health services, which include:
- Physical and Behavioral Health Screenings: Thorough screenings with referrals for further care and additional social services support.
- Well-Child Events: These events include sports physicals, annual check-ups, and state-required screenings.
- Virtual Acute Care: Immediate access to primary care through virtual platforms—an essential resource for today’s students.
Commitment to Health Equity
Peter Morrison, Chief Strategy Officer at Goodside Health, shared his enthusiasm about expanding integrated health care services within local schools, stating, “We are responding to the critical demand for enhanced pediatric care throughout New Mexico.” By bringing high-quality health care into schools, this initiative aims to overcome the barriers many families face when seeking health services, ultimately improving health outcomes for children.
Importance of School-Based Health Care Services
School-based health care is essential, not just for promoting physical health, but also for boosting overall student performance. Research indicates that around 29% of students depend solely on their school-based health center for care, and without these services, 32% would resort to urgent or emergency care. By placing these vital resources within the school setting, the initiative aims to reduce logistical hurdles for parents, like transportation issues or needing to take time off work for appointments.
Broader Commitment to Health Services in the U.S.
This collaboration is part of a wider commitment from UnitedHealthcare to invest millions in enhancing access to critical health care services in schools across the nation. With over 250,000 members in various plans, including individual and Medicare options, UnitedHealthcare continues to fortify its network, which includes more than 40 hospitals and around 11,000 health care providers throughout New Mexico.
About UnitedHealthcare
UnitedHealthcare is dedicated to helping people lead healthier lives, striving to enhance the health care system for everyone by simplifying the healthcare experience and addressing the wellness needs of consumers. Their extensive range of health benefit programs serves diverse demographics and is supported by partnerships with over 1.7 million healthcare professionals and various medical facilities nationwide.
About Goodside Health
Goodside Health is committed to providing pediatric care by collaborating with communities, ensuring that children have access to physical and mental health services in schools, homes, and clinics. The organization prioritizes health equity and adopts a holistic approach to child care, with a mission to bridge gaps in children's health services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of UnitedHealthcare's $250,000 investment?
The investment aims to enhance access to integrated health care services for K-12 students in New Mexico, supporting their health and educational success.
Which school districts will benefit from this initiative?
Cibola County Schools and Bloomfield School District are among the first districts set to implement school-based health services as part of this initiative.
What specific health services will be provided?
The program will offer physical and behavioral health screenings, well-child events, and virtual acute care, ensuring students receive comprehensive health support.
How does this initiative improve health equity?
By providing health services within schools, it tackles barriers to care such as provider shortages and transportation issues faced by families.
What is UnitedHealthcare's broader commitment to health services?
UnitedHealthcare is investing millions to expand access to health services in schools across the U.S., reaching a significant number of members in New Mexico.
