Patrick County School Board approves pursuit of school-based clinic agreements with Tri Area and Connect Health

The Patrick County School Board voted Dec. 18 to pursue agreements with Tri Area Community Health and Connect Health and Wellness to establish school-based health services, including an in-person clinic at Patrick County High School and telehealth services for elementary schools.

Superintendent Wood presented a committee report recommending a collaborative approach so one provider would provide in-person medical and mental-health services at the high school while the partner would support dental, vision and telehealth across elementary schools. "The only cost would be in-kind space for us," Wood said, adding the division estimated any reconfiguration at less than $10,000 and that providers would supply staff and equipment.

Why it matters: Board members said the clinic would reduce missed class and work time for families and staff by offering same-day telehealth or in-person visits and by simplifying access to prescriptions. The proposal follows similar programs in neighboring localities and was presented as a way to expand medical and behavioral services for students and staff.

Details and vote: Board Member 4 moved that Patrick County Public Schools enter an agreement (MOU) with Tri Area Community Health for medical and mental-health services and with Connect Health and Wellness for ancillary services "as outlined in the committee report." Board Member 3 seconded; the motion passed by voice vote.

Next steps: Superintendent Wood asked for board authorization to enter MOU negotiations; the MOU language and any final costs will return to the board for formal approval when the committee and staff have negotiated terms. The division also said nonstudents and nonstaff referred from school clinics could be directed to community clinics in Patrick Springs for additional care.