BELLAIRE — Ohio Hills Health Centers has opened a school-based health center in collaboration with the Bellaire Local School District, and it will be available to the public later this month.

The health center is located in Bellaire High School. The health center is currently serving students and staff, but beginning on June 9 it will be open to all community members.

“The school-based health center is essentially a doctor’s office located within the Bellaire High School. We offer comprehensive primary health care services and bill insurances just like a doctor’s office,” said Jeff Britton, CEO, OHHC. “The establishing of the school-based health center has been a tremendous opportunity to work with the Bellaire Local School District, Ohio Department of Health and Nationwide Children’s Hospital to bring much-needed health care to Bellaire students, school staff and the community.”

The staffing for the school-based health center includes Ryan Aston, physician assistant; Stacy Loos, medical assistant; Shannon Mullins, medical receptionist and Brittany Bobka, school health coordinator. The health center will be operational year-round, including the summer months.

“The availability of the school health center has already made a significant difference for our students, and we are pleased to be opening up to all community members starting June 9,” said Derrick McAfee, superintendent of Bellaire Local Schools. “The clinic will help ensure that Bellaire students can be successful academically by reducing absenteeism and improving the health of our students and will also provide easier access to healthcare for all community members.”

This new SBHC was made possible through a planning and implementation grant through the Ohio Department of Health This grant is part of the state’s commitment to improving the health and educational outcomes for all students. One strategy to accomplish this is through SBHCs. Research has demonstrated that SBHCs can positively impact students’ health and position them for academic success.

Ohio Hills Health Centers also offers a Patient Discount Program for those who qualify and can provide assistance in applying for Medicare, Medicaid or the Marketplace. For additional information please visit OhioHillsHealth.org or to make an appointment please call OHHC at 740-239-6447.