Requires school health service aides in New York city public schools

Title of bill

An act to amend the education law, in relation to requiring school health service aides in schools within a city with a population of one million or more

Purpose or general idea of bill

To improve the provision of medical care and services to school children many of whom would otherwise not have access to such services.

Summary of specific provisions

This bill would require that at least one full time health aide be deployed in every public school within each community school district in the City of New York.

Justification

Health Care, health education and strong preventive programs are an integral part of learning. A survey by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that nationally, 94% of the teachers view health and fitness as important for performance. However, the City's patchwork of health services for the systems one million public school children does not cover children equally. Several decades ago, the City's school health program was the model for the nation. In virtually every school, there was a nurse who ensured that students were in compliance with government mandates including physical exams and other screening. In contrast to many suburban and private schools with full-time nurses and health aides, today, many city schools receive infrequent visits from public health nurses and have no on-site health aides.

While this condition adversely affects all students, it is especially problematic for those who are from low-income families without medicaid coverage and who are unlikely to receive preventive services. Without health aides, thousands of students, especially new entrants, have not received their required physicals, immunizations and TB tests. Additionally, many others have gone without regular hearing and vision screenings and without testing for lead poisoning. As a result, many conditions that interfere with the learning process and are known to cause behavioral disorders or impair the development of a child go undetected.

Moreover, numerous exam reports and health files are incomplete and the health problems of some students may have worsened. In the absence of trained staff, some school clerical staff have attempted to fill the gap and administer first aid and other services. This inadequate level of care comes as need for it increases. With rising enrollment--including thousands of immigrants--students are faced with the perils of AIDS, TB and lead poisoning. Under general supervision a school health aide would staff the medical room and if trained administer first aid and emergency services; screen students for vision and hearing; maintain and review health records for immunization status; and, assist in referring students in need of medical attention and follow-up. Ensuring the presence of a health aide in every public school within each community school district in the City of New York has been advocated by many including the City Comptroller in 1983 and by a task force on school health which involved representatives from medical societies, parent and community organizations, pedagogical associations, governmental agencies and health interest groups.

Enactment of this bill would demonstrate a commitment to the health, education and general well-being of the students in New York City.

Fiscal implications for state & local governments

The average annual salary for a health aide is approximately $19,000 including fringe benefits.

Effective date

First of September next succeeding the date on which it shall have become law.