What Are School-Based Health Centers?

What SBHCs Are

SBHCs function like a primary care clinic but are based at school. They are staffed by licensed healthcare professionals such as nurse practitioners, physicians, nurses, medical assistants, and mental health providers, depending on the site. In CPS, each SBHC is overseen by a designated healthcare provider organization approved to deliver care within schools. SBHCs are separate from the school itself and operate under medical, not educational, regulations.

Who Can Use Them

SBHCs are available to students enrolled in Cincinnati Public Schools who have a consent form on file. In some cases, services may also be available to siblings or school staff depending on the provider and location, but student care is the primary focus. For minors, a parent or legal guardian must sign consent before most services can be provided. Students who are 18 or older may consent for themselves.

Services Overview

SBHCs provide a wide range of preventive and acute healthcare services. These commonly include sick visits for illnesses like colds, flu, asthma symptoms, or infections, well-child visits and annual physicals, sports physicals, immunizations and health screenings, basic injury care, chronic condition management, and referrals to outside specialists when needed. Many SBHCs also offer dental care, vision services, and mental or behavioral health support, depending on the provider operating that site.

Cost and Insurance Information

There is no cost to enroll in or use an SBHC. Services are provided regardless of insurance status. If a student has insurance, including Medicaid or private insurance, the SBHC may bill the insurance provider. Families are not charged copays or out-of-pocket fees, and students are never denied care because of an inability to pay. SBHC staff can also help families enroll in insurance programs if needed.

Privacy and Consent Basics

SBHCs follow all state and federal privacy laws, including HIPAA and FERPA where applicable. A signed consent form allows the SBHC provider to deliver care and manage health information appropriately. Health information is kept confidential and is not part of a student’s academic record. Parents or guardians may revoke consent at any time in writing. Certain services may have additional consent requirements, and some services may be provided confidentially to students when allowed under Ohio law.

Difference Between an SBHC and the School Nurse

A school nurse focuses on day-to-day health needs related to the school environment, such as medication administration, first aid, health screenings, and managing medical plans during the school day. An SBHC provides full clinical healthcare similar to a doctor’s office, including diagnosis, treatment, prescriptions, and ongoing medical care. SBHC providers can establish a medical home for students, while school nurses support students’ health needs within the educational setting