AFRO Staff Writer
In Baltimore City, children and parents can expect expanded access to healthcare services through school-based health clinics this year. The new law aims to provide more equitable, accessible care for families and students who need it most.
Baltimore City Councilwoman Phylicia Porter (D-District 10) authored and led the bill through the city legislature, and it was signed into law on June 9. Porter said the new law can best be described as a system change for parents, teachers and students, making way for a comprehensive healthcare access point within schools.
The law also requires, without prior approval, follow-up care for positive or abnormal health screenings and a referral to a vision or mental and behavioral health specialist at the written request of a specified individual. These services will be available to students and families through their schools’ health centers and health suites…