MISSISSIPPI — Psychological well being providers will quickly be supplied freed from cost for all college students within the state of Mississippi.
The Mississippi Division of Schooling introduced a $17.6M grant could be awarded to the College of Mississippi Medical Middle to create a telehealth program.
This system could be provided throughout college hours and would offer on-demand providers for youngsters throughout the state.
“So, simply having it accessible throughout college is superior,” stated Southaven mum or dad Keesha Thomas. “Completely gaining access to counseling throughout this pandemic is a superb factor for college kids as a result of they’re doing a lot.”
The grant comes at a time when psychological well being considerations are at an all-time excessive. In response to the American Psychological Affiliation, as stressors linked to the pandemic proceed, faculties must be in command of addressing psychological well being.
The APA reports that between March 2020 and October 2020, psychological health-related emergency visits elevated 24% for youngsters ages 5 to 11 and 31% for ages 12 to 17 in comparison with 2019.
College students’ providers shall be supplied by means of the College of Mississippi Medical Middle beginning this fall.
In response to a press launch issued by the Mississippi Division of Schooling, healthcare suppliers would supply pressing care, psychological healthcare, distant affected person monitoring, and specialty consultations to youngsters in any Mississippi college district.
“I feel that’s one of the best thought, particularly with what we’re going by means of proper now with the pandemic,” stated Jen Savko, a mum or dad and Southaven resident. “I feel that simply offers everyone entry to what they want for well being care.”
The grant would cowl prices for laptops used throughout videoconferencing with medical professionals, in addition to medical tools, together with stethoscopes and otoscopes.
Charisse Gough, an Olive Department college counselor and mum or dad, tells FOX13 the brand new service would additionally profit assist employees at faculties.
“Numerous us, though we’d love to assist as many purchasers as potential, are fairly booked up proper now,” Gough stated.
The funding was made potential by means of the Elementary and Secondary College Emergency Aid III funds (ESSER).
The primary faculties will begin to profit from this system at first of the 2022-2023 college yr. The service will run by means of 2024.
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