Texas Community Health Plans Urge Families to Prioritize Health as School Year Begins
As students across Texas gear up for a new academic year, the Texas Association of Community Health Plans (TACHP) is encouraging families to focus on their overall health. With many parents looking for ways to support their children both academically and physically, local community health plans are stepping up to offer vital services and resources.
TACHP members are dedicated to serving families statewide, ensuring that children, parents, and caregivers have access to healthcare services that are essential for a healthy start to the school year. This is coupled with a strategic collaboration with community-based organizations, schools, and healthcare providers to tackle the various factors that impact the health of Texas families.
Craig Smith, President and CEO of Driscoll Health Plan, highlighted the importance of leveraging local partnerships. He stated, "Starting the school year healthy can make a significant difference for children and their families. Our community health plans work alongside trusted community-based organizations to connect families not only with healthcare, but also with local resources that support their overall well-being."
The emphasis is not only on physical health, but also on mental and emotional wellness. With such consideration, Texas health plans can offer a comprehensive approach. Services include back-to-school physicals, immunizations, vision and dental screenings, hearing assessments, and behavioral health services. This holistic approach is pivotal in recognizing how interconnected physical health, mental health, and social needs can be.
Victoria A. Mora, Chief Executive Officer of Parkland Community Health Plan, expressed the commitment of community health plans to provide high-quality healthcare at affordable rates while serving families' broader needs. "We know that health extends beyond the walls of a doctor's office. Strong local partnerships allow us to meet families where they are, ensuring that they receive the support they need at every level," she stated.
With over 1.6 million Texans being served by TACHP's 11 member health plans, parents and caregivers are encouraged to reach out to their health plans or local organizations to learn about available resources tailored to their needs. These may include strategies for managing school-related stress and enhancing overall wellness for children and families alike.
The focus is clear: ensuring that as families step into the new school year, they have the support needed for a successful and healthy journey ahead. For detailed inquiries regarding the benefits and services available to them, families should not hesitate to engage with their health plan or healthcare provider. By prioritizing health and well-being, Texas families can set a positive tone for the academic year, promoting not just academic success but also the overall happiness and health of their children.
Founded to inform and connect, TACHP works diligently to connect Texans with services they can rely on. For more insight into how these community health plans can support their family’s health needs, visit www.tachp.org.