Nita M. Lowey Center for Health in Schools

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s):  

What are the requirements for a child to receive care in the SBHC? 

An SBHC Consent Form must be completed by a parent/guardian to enroll a child in the SBHC. Any child who is enrolled in school and living within the participating School District is eligible.  

School-Based Health Center Consent Form – Ossining 
For English  click here, for Spanish  click here. 

School-Based Health Center Consent Form – Port Chester 
For English  click here, for Spanish  click here.  

Is enrollment in the SBHC required by the School District?  

No. Enrollment in the SBHC is a benefit that is optional to families. Students can be enrolled anytime and only need to enroll once to receive services for their entire time in the school district.  

Does a student need to have insurance to be seen at the SBHC?  

No. SBHCs will provide care to students whether or not they have health insurance. If a child is insured, the SBHC will bill the private insurance or Medicaid, but there are no out-of-pocket costs to families. For an uninsured child, there is no cost whatsoever. We will work with the family to explore insurance options and assist with enrolling that child in health insurance.     

• Did you know? All children in NYS are eligible for health insurance up until their 19th birthday, regardless of income or legal status. To learn more or to get health insurance for your child, please contact Open Door’s Outreach & Enrollment Dept. at 914-502-1478 or email insurancecoverage@odfmc.org.  

Is my child’s personal health information protected?  

Yes. SBHC patient records are maintained as confidential medical records; they are not school records. Confidentiality is observed by school staff and SBHC staff, in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA.)  

Health examination documents are shared with the school nurse, only as needed for new students, sports physicals, or during the years that the school requires an updated physical examination. Additional health information may be shared with the school nurse, only on a need-to-know basis, as determined by the SBHC Medical Director to secure the child’s health and welfare.  

What if a student already has a Primary Care Provider?  

Not a problem. The School-Based Health Center will complement (not replace) the care of a child’s Primary Care Provider. Students can use the services provided at the SBHC when they are feeling ill or need medical attention during the school day. The SBHC provider will collaborate with a child’s Primary Care Provider to ensure optimal care. Students who have a private Primary Care Provider will meet with the SBHC provider for one well visit per year. This visit will not interfere with insurance benefits.