Senators Call for Increased Funding for School-Based Health Services in Oregon: Promoting Equal Access to Quality Healthcare for Students

Recently, Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley wrote to federal officials to express their support for a grant application made by the Oregon Health Authority. The senators urged the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to award up to $2.5 million in funding to enhance school-based health services funded by Medicaid in Oregon.

In their letter, the senators emphasized the importance of providing technical assistance, training, and community engagement to support school districts and local education agencies in preparing schools to offer a comprehensive approach to students’ medical and behavioral health needs within the school environment. They also commended Oregon for taking the initiative to expand the use of Medicaid to cover a wide range of health services in schools beyond those listed in individualized education programs and individualized service plans.

The senators highlighted CMS’s 2014 initiative that allows states to seek reimbursement for health services for all students enrolled in Medicaid, which they referenced as a crucial step towards ensuring that all students have access to quality healthcare services regardless of their financial background or location.

The senators expressed optimism about the potential impact of the grant funding on enhancing the provision of Medicaid-funded school-based health services in Oregon. They expressed confidence that the Oregon Health Authority would effectively utilize the grant funding to address existing gaps in the delivery of these services, ultimately leading to improved outcomes for students’ medical and behavioral wellbeing.

Their letter underscores their commitment towards ensuring that all students receive equal access to healthcare services, regardless of their background or location.