Realizing the Potential of School-Based Health Centers: A Research Brief and Implementation Guide

This resource, a research brief on School-Based Health Centers (SBHCs), provides a concise overview of how these centers function as vital primary care hubs within school settings. It helps users understand the significant role SBHCs play in bridging healthcare gaps for students by offering medical and mental health services. Finally, the brief clarifies the diverse funding mechanisms that support these centers and the influence of federal and state policies on their operations.
This resource also highlights the tangible impacts of SBHCs on student well-being and academic success—such as reductions in high school non-completion rates and increases in student GPAs in schools with a health center. Additionally, SBHCs contribute to improved health conditions for students, such as managing asthma. As a result, this resource may be particularly valuable for educators, policymakers, healthcare providers, and community advocates seeking to improve student health outcomes.