Garrett County is often the lowest county in the state for yearly adolescent well child checks. It is important for the children and adolescents of our community to be seen yearly for this preventive visit where we can ensure that these children are healthy and developing normally. Age-appropriate education and screening are also completed at a well-child visit as well as updating immunizations if needed. And, a yearly well child check can help to catch problems early, when they may be easier to treat. Let’s share ideas and collaborate on ways to increase awareness and get our adolescents in to see their doctor for a yearly preventive exam.
Research results recently released from Cornell University found that while the benefits of SBHCs are well known in Urban Centers, Rural students see the same results. In Upstate New York case studies demonstrated improved attendance, less frequent use of Urgent Care, and that children were more likely to receive well care than those locations without SBHCs.
Published June 2022
Studied the direct and indirect effects of school-based health centers (SBHCs) on the health and health behaviors of middle and high school students.