Washington State Health Care Authority receives $2.5 million to boost school-based services
For immediate release.

OLYMPIA - The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA), in partnership with the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), was awarded $2.5 million by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to improve and expand school-based services. The funds will be used to improve student attendance, increase academic performance, and support overall well-being for students. 

The grant includes $500,000 for the first year and an additional $1 million for both the second and third years. Washington is one of 18 states to receive grant funds totaling $50 million to boost school-based services.

“HCA is honored to have been selected to provide federal capacity-building resources in partnership with schools and OSPI,” said HCA director Sue Birch. “This initiative builds on years of health transformation investments, addressing not only medical needs but also the growing social needs of our school-aged children in Washington. Through the dedicated efforts of the Medicaid school-based team and our integrated Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery, we will enhance the support schools can offer to students still recovering from the impacts of COVID-19, the opioid and fentanyl crisis, violence, and the widespread challenges of anxiety and depression. We are excited to strengthen the resilience and expand the opportunities for Washington’s students, ensuring they have the support they need to thrive.”

Schools are unique locations to deliver needed health care services to children and youth, especially for those enrolled in Apple Health (Medicaid) and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). From preventive and behavioral health care to physical care, school-based services offer families and students convenient care from trusted partners where children learn and grow. These services have a track record of advancing children’s health and improving educational outcomes. 

HCA is planning community engagement activities for students and families, school districts, tribes, and other groups and partner agencies to improve and expand school-based services, including improved student access to behavioral health services and supports.

CMS will partner with Washington to implement new requirements and opportunities described in the SBS guidance published in 2023.

Media contacts

HCA Media Relations

About Washington State Health Care Authority

Functioning as both the state's largest health care purchaser and its behavioral health authority, the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is a leader in ensuring Washington residents have the opportunity to be as healthy as possible.
 
There are three pillars of our work: Apple Health (Medicaid); the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) and School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) programs; and behavioral health and recovery. Under these pillars, HCA purchases health care, including behavioral health treatment for more than 2.7 million Washington residents and provides behavioral health prevention, crisis, and recovery supports to all Washington residents.