Bill > HB1376

This bill establishes comprehensive guidelines for school-based health centers (SBHCs) in Pennsylvania, creating a detailed framework for their operation, governance, and services. The legislation mandates that SBHCs be accessible to students without turning away individuals based on inability to pay or insurance status, and requires centers to coordinate with students' existing primary healthcare providers. The bill creates a statewide school-based health advisory council composed of diverse stakeholders including department representatives, healthcare experts, students, parents, school administrators, and community members, who will provide guidance on SBHC operations and policy development. Centers must develop consent forms detailing specific services, consider local population needs when determining services, and ensure confidentiality of medical information. The bill also establishes a Department of Health liaison to facilitate communication and potentially allows for data collection on SBHC demographics, utilization, and health outcomes. Services that can be provided include primary healthcare, social services, health education, comprehensive health assessments, mental health counseling, immunizations, and referrals to specialty care. Importantly, the bill emphasizes that service offerings will be determined by individual school boards or private school governing bodies, with sensitivity to the age, racial, and ethnic demographics of students. The legislation aims to improve healthcare access for students by creating structured, comprehensive healthcare resources within educational settings.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1376