Highlighting DOH's school-based health center program and looking ahead

DOH’s School-Based Health Center (SBHC) grant program was created and funded by Substitute House Bill 1225, passed in 2021. Last year, the SBHC program completed a Request for Applications and announced the first SBHC grant awards for organizations to plan, start-up, maintain operations, or improve behavioral health services at an SBHC in Washington.

Highlights from the 2022-2023 school year:

• Over 3,000 medical visits completed by grant-funded SBHCs.
• Over 4,000 behavioral health visits completed by grant-funded SBHCs.
• Two new grant-funded SBHCs opened their doors.
• All six planning grantees successfully completed a plan for starting a new SBHC.
• DOH launched an SBHC Community Advisory Board that shares thoughts and recommendations on school-based health care and helps ensure the SBHC program activities and priorities serve the needs of Washington’s young people.

Read more about grantees’ projects on the SBHC Story Map.

What’s next?

The DOH SBHC program will continue to improve and expand the grant program based on feedback on the first year implementation and recommendations from partners and the SBHC Community Advisory Board. As part of these improvements, the SBHC program is updating requirements for clinical hours and operations at grant-funded SBHCs. We will be seeking input on the draft requirements from interested SBHCs, partners, and communities later this year.

Where can I get more information?

Check out the DOH SBHC Program webpage for more information about the grant program, engagement opportunities, and SBHC resources. You can also reach out to DOH SBHC Program Coordinator Mary Simock.