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Can I use telehealth at school?

School-based telehealth can help children more easily receive health care services.

Student and school nurse sitting in front of computer with image of health care provider on screen.

What is school-based telehealth?

Many schools offer telehealth services. These may include primary care and mental health care. Care for other common health conditions, such as diabetes and asthma, can also be provided using telehealth.

Telehealth appointments for primary care may include:

  • Yearly checkups and screenings (for example, eyesight and hearing)
  • Screening for infections
  • Treating minor wounds
  • Keeping track of health conditions like asthma and diabetes
  • Teaching about health topics like nutrition and exercise

Telehealth appointments for behavioral health may include:

  • Screening for mental health issues
  • Counseling
  • Therapy

Did you know?

Schools may use telehealth to provide health care to children before, during, and after school.


What are the benefits of school-based telehealth?

Delivering telehealth in schools can provide many benefits for students and their families, including:

  • Increase access to needed health care services.
  • Reduce missed time in the classroom.
  • Improve child well-being, which may result in better school performance.

How do I prepare for a school-based telehealth visit?

Before a telehealth appointment, it is helpful to:

  • Make sure the student’s caregiver has provided a list of the student’s medications.
  • Write down the student’s height, weight, and temperature, if appropriate.
  • Note if the student has any allergies and their health conditions.
  • Ask the student and their caregiver to write down any questions.
  • Speak with the caregiver to find out if the student has a regular primary care provider.

More information:

Can I use telehealth for my child with special health care needs? — Health Resources and Services Administration

How do I pay for telehealth? — Health Resources and Services Administration

How do I use telehealth for behavioral health care? — Health Resources and Services Administration

What can be treated through telehealth? — Health Resources and Services Administration

What should I know before my telehealth visit? — Health Resources and Services Administration

Why use telehealth? — Health Resources and Services Administration