IL HR0841

Recognizes the 65 school-based health centers in Illinois as vital providers of comprehensive health care for children and adolescents

Acknowledges that school-based health centers have operated for over 35 years and currently serve over 50,000 children and adolescents across the state

Notes that these centers provide physical exams, immunizations, behavioral health counseling, chronic disease management, vision and oral health care, and nutrition education, with over 85% of users enrolled in Medicaid or uninsured

Highlights that school-based health centers improve health outcomes, increase academic performance, reduce high school dropout rates, and contain health care costs by reducing emergency department visits

Designates February 2018 as "School-Based Health Center Awareness Month" and encourages Illinois residents to participate in this observance