New Opportunities

As with each new year, there are always new opportunities, and 2009 is definitely a year full of promises for new opportunities. This is certainly true for the field of school-based health care.

Several opportunities will be available shortly after President-elect Obama and his new administration take office. One of the new Congress' first priorities will be SCHIP reauthorization. Congress is expected to pass the expanded version that was previously vetoed. The original legislation contains support for school-based health centers. In addition to SCHIP Reauthorization, President-elect Obama has identified health care reform as one of his top priorities. Several congressional members are currently writing health care reform legislation and at least two identify school-based health centers are part of the reformed system. In addition to the health-related opportunities, President-elect Obama has nominated the Chicago Public Schools Superintendent, Arne Duncan, as the new Secretary of Education. Mr. Duncan is a known advocate for improving academic outcomes through educational reform and by providing students additional support services, such as school-based health centers. His vocal support of such services will definitely assist the advocacy efforts of the school-based health care field.

It appears that the field of school-based health care is gaining support all the way to the top! As with all opportunities, you have to be ready to respond and seize it. If you are a supported of school-based health services, I recommend you keep a close watch on the national scene!