State initiatives to support school-based health centers: A national survey

The survey of state representatives revealed a substantial expansion in the number of school-based health centers and a significant increase in state funding for the centers in the 18 months since the initial survey of states. Although the degree of involvement varies state governments have fast become leading players in the development of school-based health centers. With older state initiatives in school-based health centers expanding and additional states piloting new efforts state governments have undertaken the development of service standards staffing guidelines long-term financing strategies and quality assurance guidelines. In addition states have begun to invest in the development of state level offices to provide technical assistance to operating centers as well as support communities in conducting needs assessments and other planning activities. With the emerging role of the states governors legislators and state agency officials have also emerged as key decision makers in program policy formation and development. (excerpt)