Equity & Access · Texas behavioral health news
Texas Tech Health El Paso and Project Vida initiative reduces school absenteeism by 35% through innovative health care access - El Paso Matters
Mental Health Equity (Google News) · June 27, 2025
In plain language
A telehealth program in Far West Texas is helping students get medical and mental health care right at school. The program, called Campus Care, uses portable devices to let school nurses connect students with doctors and specialists without leaving campus. This initiative has reduced school absences by 35% and helped students manage conditions like asthma and mental health challenges. It is especially helpful for families in rural areas who would otherwise have to travel hours to see a doctor.
AI-generated summary of the source article. Not medical advice.
Key takeaways
- A school-based telehealth program has reduced student absences by 35% in Far West Texas communities.
- The initiative uses portable technology to help school nurses perform medical exams and connect with specialists.
- The program provides critical mental health services in regions with severe shortages of child and adolescent psychiatrists.
- Approximately 80% of students participating in the program reported improvements in their academic performance.
- Telehealth helps rural families avoid six-hour round-trip journeys to El Paso for routine medical appointments.
- Local health workers and specialists collaborate to treat chronic issues like asthma and undiagnosed mental health conditions.
Texas Tech Health El Paso and Project Vida initiative reduces school absenteeism by 35% through innovative health care access El Paso Matters
Need to talk to someone in Texas? Browse Texas-licensed telehealth therapists. In crisis, call or text 988.