"Welcome to the Tussing Elementary School-Based Health Clinic"
The Tussing Elementary School-based health clinic is a collaborative initiative between Pickerington Local Schools and Pediatric Associates, Inc., designed to bring accessible healthcare to students and their families. Located directly within Tussing Elementary, 7117 Tussing Road., this clinic offers a unique opportunity for schoolchildren to receive quality care without needing to leave the school grounds. By partnering with Pediatric Associates, Inc., our District ensures that students can get the healthcare they need when they need it, keeping them healthy and ready to learn.
Why a School-Based Clinic (SBHC)? Our school-based health clinic supports not only the well-being of our students and siblings, but also the greater Pickerington community (ages 0-21). Access to on-site healthcare services helps reduce absenteeism, promotes healthier outcomes for students, and eases the strain on working families who may have difficulty scheduling medical appointments.
This partnership makes healthcare accessible for all, breaking down barriers that families sometimes face in getting their children the care they need.
What Services Are Available?
- Wellness check-ups and physicals
- Immunizations and vaccinations
- Treatment of common illnesses (e.g., colds, flu, ear infections)
- Management of chronic conditions (e.g., asthma, allergies)
- Health screenings (vision, hearing, etc.)
- Referrals for specialized care if needed
- Behavioral health services and consultations
The Importance of Accessible Healthcare:
By integrating healthcare into the school setting, Pickerington Local Schools and Pediatric Associates, Inc., are working together to improve student outcomes. When students are healthy, they can better focus on their education. The ease of access ensures students miss less class time for routine check-ups or health concerns, and families benefit from the convenience of in-school care.This initiative demonstrates our District’s commitment to fostering a safe, supportive, and healthy learning environment for all.
Hours of Operation:
Appointments are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at our Tussing Elementary location.
How to Schedule an Appointment:
- All Pickerington Local Schools’ students are welcome! The first step is to complete the consent form so we know you are willing to have your child access the services.
- You can call 614-864-3222 or contact your school nurse to make an appointment.
- Ensure that the consent form is completed to allow your child access to the clinic's services.
- Appointments are available Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and take place at our Tussing Elementary School, 7117 Tussing Road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Why was an SBHC added to our school?
A: We want to keep students healthy and actively engaged in their learning. Illnesses and other health conditions can cause students to miss valuable class time to stay home or attend medical appointments. By placing a healthcare provider in the school building, students can access care quickly and easily, allowing them to return to class sooner and families to miss less work as well. Research shows that healthy kids perform better in school, and an SBHC allows us to continue nurturing every child’s potential.
Q: What is a school-based health clinic?
A: a school-based health clinic aims to improve access to health care services for students. SBHCs provide services similar to a pediatrician’s office, including annual well checks, sick visits, behavioral health supports and vaccinations. Remember, this service is not mean to replace your child’s pediatrician or family physician. If you need help finding a primary care physician for your family, let us know, we can help.
Q: How is an SBHC any different from a school nurse? Is this replacing school nurses?
A: Absolutely not! School nurses are vital members of the care team for our community’s students. School nurses will continue to attend to the day-to-day needs of students, providing first aid and care for illnesses or injuries that occur during the school day. The SBHC will expand the care available to students, providing new services such as the diagnosis and treatment of health conditions, and prescription refills. By working together, school nurses and SBHC providers deliver comprehensive care to PLSD students.
Q: Who can use the Tussing Elementary School-based health clinic?
A: The clinic is available to all students enrolled in Pickerington Local Schools and their immediate family members.
A: The clinic is available to all students enrolled in Pickerington Local Schools and their immediate family members.
Q: Do we need to schedule an appointment, or are walk-ins accepted?
A: Walk-ins are accepted, but scheduling an appointment is recommended to ensure timely service.
Q: How will parents & guardians remain informed about the care of their child?
A: Parents and guardians are essential partners in ensuring that the SBHC will provide effective support to students. Please know that no care will ever be provided for your child without your consent. Parents are always welcome to attend appointments, but it is not required for their child to receive care. We’ll talk to you over the phone and will also give your child an after-visit summary that explains what happened during the visit, with any needed medicine or follow-up. Your confidence in our care of your child is very important to us.
Q: Are services free, or will we need to pay?
A: Most services are covered by insurance, and Pediatric Associates, Inc., accepts various insurance plans, including Medicaid. Out-of-pocket costs may apply depending on your family's insurance coverage.
Q: What should I bring to my child’s appointment?
A: Please bring your child’s insurance card and any relevant medical history or vaccination records.
Q: Will my child miss class for the appointment?
A: Appointments are designed to minimize class disruption. School staff will coordinate with clinic personnel to ensure your child can return to class promptly after their visit.
Q: Can the clinic provide care for ongoing conditions?
A: Yes, the clinic can help manage chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, and allergies in coordination with your child’s regular healthcare provider.
Q: Will the clinic share my child’s medical information with the school?
A: No, the clinic maintains strict patient confidentiality in compliance with HIPAA regulations. Information will only be shared with school staff if parents or guardians authorize it.
Before the start of each school year, please be sure to contact your school nurse and child’s teacher to discuss any health concerns your child has, including severe allergies, seizures, diabetes, asthma, and current medication. During the school year, please be sure to update the school nurse and teacher about any new or changing medical conditions or medication.
