There are many ways to reach people who qualify for Medicaid insurance – some of them provide health dividends, such as an innovative school physical. The Health Authority has begun planning such outreach initiatives in Inkster on Aug. 21.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for us to improve the health status of young people and reach their families with valuable health insurance information,” explained Chris Allen, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Detroit Wayne County Health Authority. “This program represents a valuable collaboration between several health care and education organizations that will result in improved health status and access to health care.”

“The purpose of the Health Authority’s school physical initiative is to improve the health and educational outcomes of youth,” noted Faith Polk, Director of Community Outreach. Athletes are generally the only students who receive physical exams in schools. Offering physicals are the first step to introducing young people, and their families, to a medical home. Parents will be asked about their health insurance coverage when they approve the physical exam for their child. If they need Medicaid enrollment, Health Authority staff will assist with enrollment and referrals on the spot, according to Polk.

It’s expected that about 2,100 students will receive physicals through a collaboration involving the Oakwood Health System, Western Wayne Family Health Center, Wayne County Health Department, Wayne State University School of Medicine, and Wayne County Community College Dentistry Program. Students will receive a comprehensive physical exam, including vision and oral health assessment, and health promotion information. Referrals for follow-up care will be made to Western Wayne Family Health Center.

As many as one in seven adolescents has no health insurance; one in three low income adolescents is not covered by Medicaid; and private insurance coverage of adolescents is increasingly restrictive, according to “Great Transitions: Preparing Adolescents for a New Century.” The book recommends expanding school-linked health services.

“Health and education go hand in hand,” according to former Surgeon General, Dr. Antonia Novello in “Healthy Children Ready to Learn: An Essential Collaboration between Health and Education.” Dr. Novello noted that “Just as our children have a right to receive the best education available, they have a right to be healthy. As parents, legislators, and educators, it is up to us to see that this becomes a reality.”