Community Invited to School-Based Health Center Ribbon Cutting

The community is invited to celebrate the opening of a new School-Based Health Center in St. Louis on Monday, Jan. 13. The event will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., and will feature a ribbon cutting led by the Gratiot Area Chamber of Commerce, along with brief remarks beginning at 5:45 p.m. The Center is located in Carrie Knause Elementary School, 121 I & K Street, in St. Louis.
With funding support from a Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) grant to MyMichigan Health Foundation, the Center focuses on addressing the physical, emotional, and educational needs of students in the St. Louis school district. Sarah Slavik, F.N.P.-B.C., M.S.N., family nurse practitioner, will provide primary care services to students ages 3 to 21 and is available to all youth who attend St. Louis Public Schools. Gratiot County Community Foundation also provided funding for the School-Based Health Center.
The Center does not replace the student’s current provider but is available for students who do not have a health care provider or would like the convenience of being seen in the school setting. Services will include primary health care, acute health care (such as influenza testing, strep testing, colds, etc.), first aid, well child exams, sports physicals, immunization, labs, preventative care, risk behavior assessment and behavioral health counseling.
According to frequently asked questions posted on MyMichigan Health’s website, a consent must be signed and returned to the School-Based Health Center before a child can receive treatment. Parents/guardians are encouraged to accompany their child to appointments whenever possible, however if work restrictions, transportation or other factors prevent the parent from attending, their child can still receive care, and the care team will communicate with parents by phone. The school district can also assist with transportation between the elementary school and other in-district schools for visits conducted during the school day.
MyMichigan Health will bill insurance and bill for co-pays and deductibles, however no fees are required at the time of service and no child will be turned away due to inability to pay. MyMichigan Health staff can also assist families with qualifying for financial assistance.
“Thanks to funding of this generous grant, we can help to address any gaps in health care services that may exist within the community by providing preventive care, acute care, chronic disease management, and mental health services, creating a foundation for lifelong wellness,” said Marita Hattem Schiffman, president, MyMichigan Medical Centers in Alma, Clare and Mt. Pleasant. “We are delighted to partner with St. Louis Public Schools in this initiative. The Center will truly serve as an essential resource for students and families within the community.”

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