Free medical care will be available on all Houston ISD campuses next year

HOUSTON – Houston ISD announced it will expand its partnership with a national healthcare provider to ensure students have free access to virtual doctor visits.

In a press release, the district announced the expansion of Hazel Health, one of the nation’s largest school telehealth providers, which is part of its “continuum of care” model.

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Currently, telehealth services are offered on 88 HISD campuses, but will be available districtwide during the 2024-2025 school year.

“HISD is reimagining what it means to meet the needs of students in and out of the classroom,” said Najah Callendar, senior executive director of external engagement for HISD. “Hazel Health’s telemedicine services are one of the most exciting elements of our continuum of care approach, and we are excited to make these supports available to every student in the district.”

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Through this expanded partnership, HISD will invest nearly $2 million with Hazel Health to provide:

• Telehealth services for every HISD student, at no cost to the student or family.

• Resources to help school nurses care for students more effectively and efficiently during the school day.

• Convenient virtual appointments, where the average wait time to see a doctor is four minutes, ensuring that most students can be treated quickly and return to class.

• Behavioral and mental health counseling with therapists who provide specialized support addressing a wide range of student needs.

• Access to a clinical support team to help families navigate long-term treatment plans.

• Immediate access to common over-the-counter medications plus fast, convenient prescription refills.

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“Hazel’s expansion of virtual services will promote health equity in the community by ensuring all students can access the care they need,” said Dr. Travis Gayles, chief health officer of Hazel Health . “Now, when a HISD student needs care, they can get it at their school or at a nearby Sunrise Center at no cost to their family. Students will receive high-quality care regardless of their immigration status, financial ability, or whether or not they have health insurance. Our partnership with HISD removes barriers so students can come to class healthy and ready to learn and thrive.