The evolution of school health services: New York and nationwide

Implementing EPSDT screening in the public school: resolving some issues

The use of the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment Program (EPSDT) as an adjunct to school health and education services was investigated. In the process of developing systematic procedures for public schools to use in collaborating with EPSDT, critical procedural, cost and policy issues surfaced. Methods for determining and protecting student eligibility information, estimating the cost and feasibility of the procedures and the role of local and state school health policy are examined. Specific recommendations are made. Information is provided that will help others interested in involving the public schools in the EPSDT program.

National Association of State School Nurse Consultants define role of school nurse in "PL 94-142--education for all handicapped children act of 1975"

In summary, school health services are a very important and, at times, a mandatory "related service". A child is better able to benefit from the educational process, if he/she is functioning in an optimal health condition. The school nurse is best prepared to identify the health needs of the child and facilitate remediation of the condition or assist the school setting in adapting to the child's needs. Most states have a state law, as well as the Federal law, which mandates services for the handicapped or exceptional child. In addition, there is Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act that was passed in 1973. Section 504 states "no qualified handicapped person shall on the basis of handicap, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity which receives or benefits from Federal financial assistance". All three laws need to be considered when developing state guidelines and school district policies.