SBHCs are open during school hours and some have limited hours before and after school. All current RI SBHCs are operated by a state licensed parent health facility. After-hours coverage is provided by the parent health facility. Profile of kids being served in SBHCs. Access to health care is particularly difficult for teens in urban areas.
Adolescence is a time of growth and change, with many health and mental health issues.
RI Kids Count's Fact Book reports that teens from urban communities are at risk for almost every health indicator reported. Schools are strategically situated to provide adolescents and their families with supports that help students achieve healthy productive adulthood. School based health centers are located where students are, provide services regardless of ability to pay, provide confidential care per state and federal statutes, and have expertise in adolescent health issues. SBHCs address teens' counseling and health needs, so schools can teach and teens can get down to the business of learning. Number of Referrals From Woonsocket SBHCs Quality SBHCs need stable funding, in addition to medical care resources, from the state, private partners and communities to develop and sustain them.