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More students across the state now have access to essential medical treatment and behavioral healthcare in their schools.
The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), in partnership with the Department of Education, announced Wednesday they are expanding Medicaid school-based health services.
Under the new plan, any Medicaid-eligible student with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), 504 Plan, other individualized health or behavioral health plan, or where medical necessity has otherwise been established, may qualify -- including those who may not receive any special education services.
“Expanding access to school-based health services is an investment in West Virginia’s children and their future,” DoHS Secretary Carl Ayers, said in a statement. “This partnership allows more children to receive needed services in an environment where they are already learning, growing and receiving support. By removing barriers to care, we can better support children, families and communities across our state.”
The expansion adds three new kinds of service providers to the school-based options:
- school counselors
- licensed social workers
- board-certified behavior analysts
“Expanding eligibility allows us to meet students where they are and connect them with services that can support their health, well-being and ability to succeed in the classroom,” said Christy Donohue, commissioner of the DoHS Bureau for Medical Services.
The expansion is part of an effort to implement changes to the School-Based Health Services program to meet new federal requirements and guidance.