Addressing Educationally Relevant Health Disparities: The Partnership of Local Health Departments and Public Schools

Background  - An extensive body of literature supports the relationship between health and learning. The identification of educationally relevant health disparities (ERHD) represents a unique opportunity to promote the development of youth in a manner that addresses both health and educational outcomes. Local health departments (LHD) work broadly throughout their communities to address health disparities and are uniquely situated to work with schools within their jurisdiction. Methods - A Web-based survey was designed to assess local health department (LHD) engagement with public schools in activities designed to address ERHD.  The survey was implemented among Ohio LHD over 4 weeks during spring of 2013 utilizing Ohio’s Public Health Practice Based Research Network.  One response per health department from the health or nursing director was requested (response rate 72%, n=90 of 125).  Results – LHD reported greater involvement in activities related to nutrition (61.8%), physical activity (58.4%), and teen pregnancy prevention (53.3%).  Less involvement was reported in activities related to asthma (61.8%), attention deficit and hyperactivity (77.3%), school breakfast (65.6%).  The presence of a school health coordinator, provision of school nursing services, and diverse funding was significantly associated with collaborative efforts to address ERHD. Approximately 12% of LHD reported no involvement in addressing ERHD in schools.  Conclusions - Despite the historic relationship between the fields of education and health, there is variation in collaborative efforts that support both health and academic achievement within the school setting.  Collaborative efforts that address ERHD represent a mutually beneficial approaching to achieving improved health and educational outcomes.