 
Greetings from Irene M. Ibarra While health insurance coverage is one of the strongest predictors of whether children have access to health care, even insured children aren’t guaranteed access to affordable, appropriate, high-quality care. To grow, learn and thrive, all children need timely access to physical, oral and mental health services, and school-based clinics are an important strategy to improve child health. These clinics provide a familiar, easy way for families to make sure that their children receive immunizations, have access to primary and preventive care, and improved access to specialized care for complicated illnesses. In turn, these children are likely to have better school attendance and academic performance levels, and fewer hospitalizations and visits to the emergency room – especially for such treatable conditions as asthma attacks or ear infections. With funding from The Trust, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment will be able to double its reach over the next two years in providing community grants to strengthen existing school-based health centers and to establish new centers across the state. Additionally, we’re pleased to support the Colorado Children’s Campaign in leading a task force of educators, parents and health providers to develop a statewide plan that will streamline, strengthen and sustain a system of integrated school health. Through this two-pronged approach, those who know best what’s needed to improve and sustain school-based health centers will come together to ensure that this strategy helps to provide quality physical, dental and behavioral health care that is accessible and affordable for all Colorado kids.
Irene M. Ibarra |
