House Republican Press Release

February 5, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

REPRESENTATIVE GIEGLER INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO ESTABLISH HEALTH CENTER AT ROGERS PARK MIDDLE SCHOOL

State Rep. Janice R. Giegler, R-Danbury, has introduced legislation to establish a School Based Health Center (SBHC) at Rogers Park Middle School in Danbury. House Bill 6194 has been submitted to the Legislature’s Education Committee.

Danbury currently has school-based health centers at Danbury High School and Broadview Middle School. These centers offer a number of services, including: treatment of injuries and illnesses, such as colds, ear infections, sore throats and skin problems; routine check-ups; prescription and dispensing of medications; laboratory tests; nutrition counseling and weight management and crisis intervention.

The 50 SBHCs in Connecticut are free standing health facilities. The majority of such facilities are supported by the state Department of Public Health. SBHC’s are staffed by teams specializing in child/adolescent health, including one or more licensed nurse practitioners or physician’s assistants, clinical social workers, medical assistants and in some cases, dental staff.

"This legislation will help call attention to the need for a school based health center at Rogers Park Middle School," said Rep. Giegler.  "Especially in light of the school’s growing population, it is vital that we provide the same comprehensive health services that students already receive at both Broadview and Danbury High School. I am hopeful that as the budget process unfolds, we can incorporate plans for establishing a center at the school."