Report on the Impact of Wellness Centers and SBHCs in L.A. Unified for 2022-2023

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We at The L.A. Trust are happy to announce the release of our recent data report highlighting the impact of Wellness Centers and School-Based Health Centers (SBHCs) throughout L.A. Unified during the 2022-2023 school year.

Our findings from the participation of 14 Wellness Centers and 3 SBHCs in the Data xChange initiative during the last academic year reveal the significant benefits these centers bring to students and their families. Almost 50,000 patients were cared for through over 160,000 visits, an average of 3.2 visits per patient. This tells us that the centers serve as a primary source of care for many. Notably, 35% of these patients accessed a blend of medical, dental, and mental health services, underlining the comprehensive nature of the care provided.

A remarkable uptake was seen in dental services, with over 12,000 patients receiving care through almost 34,000 visits. Half of the student-age patient dental visits included preventive care. Similarly, over half of the student-age patients received preventive primary care services, such as well-child exams and vaccinations, essential for sustained health and wellness. The report also highlights the readily accessible mental health support available through LAUSD’s school-based health centers and mental health agency partners.

The data also draws attention to the link between chronic absenteeism and health problems like obesity and mental health disorders. By tackling these health challenges, we aim to reduce absenteeism and boost academic achievement. The increase in access to care, especially the rise in well-child exams and contraception management visits, not only fosters better health outcomes but also lessens the strain on emergency healthcare services.

This report underscores the importance of our work in navigating the intricacies of student health and education. Comprehensive, accessible healthcare services help make strides in meeting immediate health needs and building a foundation for a healthier, brighter future for our students. This report shows the impact of our collective efforts to support the health and success of every student in Los Angeles. Your continued support of our mission is greatly appreciated.