Community health plans in Texas boost services for healthy start to school year
As the new school year begins, community health plans across Texas are stepping up to ensure families start the year healthy and ready to succeed. The Texas Association of Community Health Plans (TACHP) is urging parents to take advantage of the services and resources available through their community health plans and local organizations.
TACHP member health plans, serving over 1.6 million Texans, are partnering with community-based organizations, schools, and healthcare providers to address the broader factors that influence health and well-being. These efforts focus on preventive care, behavioral health services, and other resources essential for maintaining health throughout the school year.
Craig Smith, President and CEO of Driscoll Health Plan and TACHP Chairman, emphasized the importance of these partnerships. "Our community health plans work with trusted community-based organizations to connect families with healthcare and local resources that support their overall health and well-being," he said. "The start of a new school year is a critical time to ensure children have the care and resources they need to thrive."
Victoria A. Mora, CEO of Parkland Community Health Plan and TACHP Vice Chair, echoed this sentiment. "Starting the school year healthy can make a meaningful difference for children and their families," she stated. "Community health plans across Texas are committed to helping families access affordable, high-quality healthcare while partnering with organizations in their communities to support the whole person and the whole family."
TACHP's 11 member health plans are dedicated to expanding access to healthcare and improving health outcomes for Texans. As the school year begins, parents and caregivers are encouraged to check with their health plan, healthcare providers, and trusted community organizations for available services and resources. These include back-to-school physicals and immunizations, vision and dental screenings, hearing assessments, age-appropriate wellness checkups, and behavioral health services for anxiety and depression.
Behavioral health services are crucial, with many families facing challenges related to mental health. TACHP member health plans also connect families to community-based organizations and local resources that address broader needs, such as managing school-related stress and promoting overall wellness.
"Through these partnerships, we are strengthening the health of the communities we serve and supporting the holistic needs of individuals and families," said Smith. "Our goal is to help Texans get the care they need and connect them with resources close to home."
As the school year gets underway, families are encouraged to contact their health plan or healthcare provider to learn more about benefits, services, and resources available to them. TACHP and its member health plans remain committed to working with community-based organizations to ensure all families have the support they need to thrive.