School and Healthcare Collaboration in Implementing and Sustaining School-Based Health Centers in Rural Communities.
Xue Zhang1, Mildred E Warner2, Chen Wu2
1The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA.
The Journal of School Health
|September 1, 2025
Summary
School-based health centers (SBHCs) thrive in rural areas through strong school-healthcare partnerships. Collaboration, shared resources, and trust are key to overcoming challenges and ensuring student well-being.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Healthcare Management
- Rural Health
Background:
- Examines implementation and sustainability of school-based health centers (SBHCs) in a rural New York region.
- Focuses on the collaborative relationship between schools and healthcare systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To understand the factors influencing the implementation and sustainability of SBHCs.
- To identify facilitators and barriers in school-healthcare partnerships for rural student health.
Main Methods:
- Conducted 12 semi-structured interviews with school and healthcare system personnel.
- Employed thematic coding using collective impact and collective action frameworks.
Main Results:
- Successful SBHCs exhibit strong collaborative culture, shared resources, and a common agenda.
- Trust and open communication are vital for overcoming institutional challenges.
- Barriers include funding, data sharing, and differing institutional priorities; mitigated by communication and community trust.
Conclusions:
- Collaborative partnerships between schools and healthcare systems are crucial for SBHC success in rural settings.
- Trust and open communication are essential components for effective SBHC operations.
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