New report shows concerning rise in obesity rates among LAUSD students
Changes from 2018-2022
The Los Angeles Trust for Children's Health has released a comprehensive Data xChange Impact Report for the school year of 2021-2022, providing valuable insights into the impact of Wellness Centers and school-based health centers (SBHCs) in Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). These centers play a crucial role in delivering essential health services to students, families, and community members, underscoring their commitment to health equity and inclusivity.
Since 2015, The Data xChange has experienced a remarkable expansion, with the number of its medical clinics more than doubling. Today that number includes 15 Wellness Centers and 8 other school-based health centers located in underserved communities. The system has grown and for good reason. Over the years, the Wellness Centers and SBHCs have been instrumental in providing care to over 300,000 patients through nearly 900,000 visits. Serving as a medical home for many students, these centers focus on prevention, education, early intervention, and screening to promote well-being and academic achievement.
Wellness Centers and School-Based Health Centers at LAUSD.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the centers have witnessed an encouraging increase in the number of visits, returning to pre-pandemic levels last year. However, the report highlights a concerning rise in diagnoses of being overweight or obese, emphasizing the need to address associated health risks.
While there has been a decline in visits for contraceptive management, which reflects a nationwide trend influenced by the pandemic, the report notes a significant increase in chlamydia screening, underscoring the centers' commitment to addressing critical aspects of sexual health.
The report also emphasizes the importance of dental care services provided by the centers. Poor oral health has been linked to chronic diseases in adults and academic difficulties among students. With over 175,000 dental care visits since 2015, these centers are bridging the gap in access to dental care.
The patient demographics indicate that Latinx patients form the largest proportion, mirroring the composition of LAUSD's student population. The Wellness Centers extend their care to not just students but also families and community members, with a higher proportion of female visitors compared to males.
Changes in the proportion of all visits for specific types of services from 2018-2019 to the 2021-2022 school year.
Additionally, the data reveals a concerning increase in diagnoses of anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), particularly among community members. This aligns with the national trend of rising anxiety, depression, and substance use.
The findings of this report underscore the crucial and irreplaceable role that Wellness Centers and SBHCs play in delivering comprehensive healthcare services. These centers are deeply committed to ensuring health equity and refusing to leave anyone behind. They have become a cornerstone of healthcare and a reliable source of support within the highest need areas of Los Angeles.
About the Data xChange
The Data xChange is guided by an Expert Advisory Council that includes representatives from the following organizations: Children Now, Community Clinic Association of LA County, Community Coalition, Community Health Councils, First 5 Los Angeles, Inner City Struggle, Kaiser Permanente, L.A. Care Health Plan, LAUSD Student Health & Human Services, LAUSD Office of Data & Accountability, Prevention Institute, The Children’s Health Partnership and The Advancement Project.