Georgia Highlands Medical Services

School Based Health Center

is now providing care for the students and staff members of Otwell Middle School.

Click HERE for more information

School-Based Health Centers

The Georgia Department of Education's Office of Whole Child Supports​ is working to expand school-based health services to rural communities in Georgia. The goal is to provide students the best opportunity to succeed by addres​sing medical, behavioral, dental, and vision health needs. School-based health centers (SBHCs) are proven to be an effective method for addressing these needs by meeting students where they are – in school. This model of healthcare delivery helps to eliminate barriers such as transportation, accessibility, and cost for children and families living in communities with little to no access to healthcare.​

​​Parental Rights and Responsibilities Related to SBHC Services

• • Parental/legal guardian consent and notification are an essential – and required – part of delivering services to students through SBHCs.
  • Parents and legal guardians have the right to utilize SBHC services as they see fit, with the freedom to choose or opt out of services offered.
  • Parents and legal guardians can request and receive health information and records for their child at any time. Student health data must follow federal FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) and HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) guidelines.

Parents and legal guardians can terminate services through the SBHC at any time. ​

For more information, review the link below.

School Based Health Centers Frequently Asked Questions