Rising Demand for School Health Services Seen at NHC and Statewide
School-based Health Centers (SBHCs) across Oregon are seeing more students than ever before, and NHC’s clinics are no exception. According to a recent report from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), SBHCs throughout the state hit record highs in the 2023–24 school year, with nearly 149,000 visits logged across 87 centers, serving over 43,000 people in 28 counties.
At Neighborhood Health Center (NHC), demand surged at both of our school-based locations: Merlo Station High School and Tualatin High School. Students accessed more care across primary care, behavioral health, and dental services, highlighting a growing need for accessible health care in school settings.
At Tualatin High School, visits increased by nearly 42% year over year, increasing from 1,048 in 2022–23 to 1,485 in 2023–24. The number of unique patients served more than doubled, from 222 to 492. Behavioral healthcare was a major driver of growth, with visits nearly tripling (from 88 to 254). Dental visits also rose by over 60% from 107 to 173. Tualatin’s clinic offers comprehensive oral health services, supporting students with preventive and restorative care on-site.
At Merlo Station High School, the story was similar. Total visits climbed by 21%, and the clinic saw 470 unique patients, up from 370 the year prior. Primary care visits increased from 578 to 715, and sexual health services more than doubled. In addition, more than 120 dental visits were delivered through screening and sealant events led by NHC’s Community Dental Program, helping students receive critical preventive care they might have otherwise missed.
Our SBHCs serve individuals ages 0–21, including students and their siblings who live within the school district. By embedding care directly into the school environment, we reduce common barriers like transportation, cost, and time away from class.
Whether it’s a same-day visit for an overdue vaccination, help managing anxiety, or getting a sports physical before the first practice of the season, our school-based clinics are designed to meet the unique needs of youth, right where they are. As demand continues to rise across Oregon, NHC remains committed to ensuring every young person has access to compassionate, confidential, and comprehensive care, no matter their insurance status or ability to pay.