The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), Bureau for Medical Services (BMS), in partnership with the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE), are expanding Medicaid School-Based Health Services. This expansion gives more students access to essential medical and behavioral healthcare right in their schools
“Expanding access to school-based health services is an investment in West Virginia’s children and their future,” said Carl Ayers, Cabinet Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Human Services. “This partnership allows more children to receive needed services in an environment where they are already learning, growing and receiving support. By removing barriers to care, we can better support children, families and communities across our state.”
The expansion will broaden the population eligible for School-Based Health Services. Under the expanded program, any Medicaid-eligible youth with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), 504 Plan, other individualized health or behavioral health plan, or where medical necessity has otherwise been established may qualify for School-Based Health Services.
Previously, eligibility for School-Based Health Services was more limited. The expansion allows more Medicaid-eligible students, including those who may not receive special education services, to access medically necessary health and behavioral health services through their school. Providing services in a familiar setting can help reduce barriers that make it difficult for families to access care outside of school.
“We are excited to partner with the Department of Education to provide additional services to children and youth across West Virginia,” said Christy Donohue, Commissioner of the DoHS Bureau for Medical Services. “Expanding eligibility allows us to meet students where they are and connect them with services that can support their health, well-being and ability to succeed in the classroom.”
The expansion also adds three provider types to the School-Based Health Services program:
- Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)
- Licensed social workers
- School counselors
Adding these providers will expand the range of health and behavioral health professionals who can participate in the program and provide eligible services to students.
BMS and WVDE have been working to implement changes to the School-Based Health Services program in accordance with federal requirements and guidance. The expansion will increase opportunities for Medicaid-eligible youth to receive medically necessary services in the school environment.
