A Qualitative Evaluation of Elev8 New Mexico School-Based Health Centers

School-Based Health Centers: A Concept Analysis

INTRODUCTION

This concept analysis aims to provide a conceptual definition for school-based health centers (SBHCs). Despite growing evidence of SBHC growth and impact, there is a gap in the conceptual clarity of SBHCs.

METHOD

A systematic review using Walker and Avant's 8-step method of concept analysis produced 369 articles, of which 17 were analyzed. PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Library were searched with no time limit to capture the history and development of SBHCs. Search terms included "school-based health" and "school-based health center."

RESULTS

Accessible and advanced practitioners, heterogeneity, integrated care and location, and youth-friendly provide defining attributions to SBHCs. Antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents are discussed.

DISCUSSION

This concept analysis highlights evidence supporting the potential impact of SBHCs as a health service model for advancing health equity. Clear criteria contribute to understanding SBHCs and serve as a basis for ongoing research and stakeholder collaboration.

[Adolescents' access to contraception: perceptions of health workers in Huechuraba, Chile]

OBJECTIVE

Identify difficulties in adolescents' access to contraceptive care and information, based on perceptions and experiences of health workers in Huechuraba, in the Metropolitan Region of Chile.

METHODS

This qualitative, descriptive study incorporated principles of participatory action research, involving health care teams in the survey and data analysis, and generating proposals for improvement. Seventeen (17) semi-structured individual interviews and one group interview were conducted with professionals and technical personnel involved in adolescent care in the commune's health centers.

RESULTS

Health workers perceived that adolescents were having difficulties reaching the centers due to cultural factors, lack of information, lack of health activities in the community, while administrative requirements and procedures hindered access to care. Shortcomings were evident in the management and interpretation of fertility regulation standards and of current legislation, and in the absence of explanatory frameworks recognizing adolescents' gender, sexual, and reproductive rights.

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescents and their needs have a low profile and there are conflicts between theory and practice regarding access to contraception and counseling, with a lack of definitions or agreements that take into account social and cultural contexts. It is urgent to provide health workers with training on gender and sexual and reproductive rights, together with opportunities for reflection in order to generate coordinated and effective approaches. Efforts are required to disseminate the program and organize activities in community spaces, together with other community sectors.