UnitedHealthcare and Goodside Health Partner to Provide Integrated Health Care Services to K-12 Students in Texas

UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Texas has recently announced a groundbreaking partnership with school-based health care provider Goodside Health, with a major $1 million investment aimed at conducting EPSDT (Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment) wellness events in 200 schools spread across Texas.

Referred to as Texas Health Steps within the state, the EPSDT program is focused on early discovery and treatment of childhood health conditions to prevent them from becoming severe or disabling. After each school visit, the Texas Health Steps-credentialed providers from Goodside Health will guide students on the necessary next steps, ensuring that any physical, behavioral, or social needs are properly addressed.

Donald Langer, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Texas, emphasized the importance of expanding access to essential health care services for children to help them thrive in their communities through a holistic approach provided by this partnership.

Health care has evolved to become a critical resource in schools, contributing to students’ overall well-being and academic success, along with their physical health. Studies show that nearly one in five children in the United States live in poverty, indicating a higher likelihood of health care access issues and mental health challenges among youth from lower-income households.

Brian White, the CEO of Goodside Health, pointed out that undiagnosed or untreated health conditions often lead to negative impacts on school attendance, classroom behavior, and academic performance. The partnership will enable them to deliver integrated care to school children, setting the stage for their long-term success in life.

Over the course of 2024 and 2025, the wellness events will be rolled out across various counties in Texas, catering to up to 200 K-12 students per event based on school size. Some of the counties in which these schools are located include Tarrant, Harris, Hidalgo, Travis, Kaufman, Willacy, Collin, Dallas, and Bexar.

UnitedHealthcare currently serves over 4.7 million individuals in Texas under various benefit plans, ensuring access to a vast network of hospitals and care providers throughout the state, while also supporting Medicaid and Medicare beneficiaries.

Goodside Health is at the forefront of enhancing pediatric care through community partnerships that facilitate access to physical health, mental health, and telehealth services across multiple settings. Their mission revolves around closing gaps in children’s healthcare by incorporating innovative approaches and promoting health equity.

This collaboration between UnitedHealthcare and Goodside Health signifies a significant step towards providing comprehensive health care services to K-12 students in Texas, addressing their diverse needs and fostering a healthier future for the younger generation.