Youngstown Times

State Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel (R-Columbiana County) has revealed that the East Palestine and Crestview School Districts are set to benefit from $488,196 in funding for essential healthcare initiatives. The funding, allocated for a new school-based health clinic, telehealth services, and a mobile unit, aims to provide in-person healthcare for multiple districts in the area. The State Controlling Board gave its approval for the funding during a recent meeting.

"These resources will go a long way to help students not only in Columbiana County but the region as a whole," emphasized Robb Blasdel. "Building a new center in East Palestine will only strengthen the community, and the students of Crestview will be better served with access to the services they need to help them grow and fully reach their potential."

The projects are being undertaken in collaboration with Akron Children's Hospital. The East Palestine City School District is creating a private, school-based clinical space within the elementary and high school premises. The district will receive equipment to support comprehensive, in-person care and telehealth services. A designated school health primary care provider will work directly with the school to provide clinical services and enhance health and wellness initiatives for students, staff, and families.

Similarly, the Crestview School District, in partnership with five other districts, will introduce mobile, in-person provider, and telehealth models of school-based healthcare services. Each district will allocate private clinical space for Akron Children's Hospital's use, facilitating efficient distribution of services, including preventative care. The school provider will offer telehealth and in-person clinical services to the student population, with integrated telehealth equipment to enhance student access to care.

The next meeting of the State Controlling Board is scheduled for April 15, 2024.