[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 153 (Thursday, September 28, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1868]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   THE SCHOOL BASED HEALTH CLINIC ACT

                                 ______


                        HON. NYDIA M. VELAZQUEZ

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 28, 1995

  Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to announce the 
introduction of legislation that is long overdue. The School Based 
Health Clinic Act ensures that every child shall have access to high 
quality health care services. I trust that this body will act to ensure 
prompt passage of this critical bill.
  Tragically, over 12 million children, and almost half of all 
elementary school students, lack access to basic preventative health 
care such as immunizations and physical exams. The barriers that may 
stand in their way are inadequate or no health insurance, few available 
caregivers, and lack of convenient transportation.
  This dilemma has caused many communities to establish school based 
health clinics. These clinics have proven to be very successful in 
their mission--bringing comprehensive health care to children in need.
  Unfortunately, many centers cannot get the funding that they 
desperately need to continue operating. The School Based Health Center 
Act will provide seed money for expanding these centers to new 
communities. My bill will increase access to health services for school 
kids by requiring that HMO's and other managed care plans provide 
assistance to school based health centers.
  Mr. Speaker, our children are in dire need of health care services. 
Far too many children are not immunized, they do not receive dental 
care, and only get to see a doctor in the emergency room. We now have a 
unique opportunity to make a positive impact on the health and well 
being of our Nation's most needy children.
  I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join me in 
sponsoring this historic piece of legislation, and bring comprehensive 
health care to children in dire need of care.

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