Many families face barriers to accessing timely medical care for their children due to transportation challenges and the need for parents or caregivers to take time off work. VNA Health Group's Children and Family Health Institute helps address these barriers through its School-Based Nurse Practitioner Program, which brings primary care directly into schools through three dedicated nurse practitioners.

Students in underserved Monmouth County communities will continue to receive healthcare directly in their schools thanks to an additional $2,000 grant from the Norene Quarado Fund for Monmouth County through the Community Foundation of New Jersey.

The School-Based Nurse Practitioner Program removes barriers to care by bringing healthcare to students where they spend much of their day, making it easier for children to receive timely medical attention without leaving school. By providing care in a familiar and convenient setting, the program also reduces time away from the classroom while easing the burden on parents and caregivers who may otherwise miss work to seek medical care for their children.

"Access to healthcare is essential for helping children stay healthy and succeed in school," said Sahai Cole, Vice President of the Children and Family Health Institute. "Our School-Based Nurse Practitioner Program brings healthcare directly to students, making it easier for them to receive the care they need without leaving school. We are grateful to the Norene Quarado Fund for Monmouth County and the Community Foundation of New Jersey for their support in helping us continue this work."

Through its School-Based Nurse Practitioner Program, CFHI partners with local school districts to provide primary and preventive healthcare services to students from pre-kindergarten through high school. Each year, about 1,450 students receive onsite acute care visits, health screenings, and school physicals through the program. The program also provides health education to approximately 550 students and parents annually and helps at least 75 students better manage chronic conditions such as asthma and diabetes.

Working alongside school nurses, nurse practitioners diagnose and treat common childhood illnesses, conduct health screenings, prescribe medications when appropriate, provide health education, and connect families with community resources. This collaborative approach helps students receive care sooner while giving families convenient access to trusted healthcare services and support.

The program serves students in Keyport, Keansburg, Asbury Park, Freehold Borough, Eatontown, and Red Bank, helping improve access to healthcare for children across these communities. By making care available during the school day, the program minimizes missed class time and helps students stay healthy, engaged, and ready to learn.

About the Children and Family Health Institute

As part of its comprehensive approach to community health, VNA Health Group operates the Children and Family Health Institute (CFHI), which serves more than 54,000 clients and families each year. The Institute delivers over 20 life-changing public health programs, including pediatric home care, early intervention, prenatal care, and primary care. CFHI provides the care and resources that children and families need to live healthier, happier lives. For more information, please visit https://vnahg.org/children-family-health-institute.

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