March 16th, 2009

Reports the Morning Call:

As the recession worsens and more parents lose their jobs and benefits, some are coming to rely more heavily on the free health care provided by school nurses.

Calls to school nurses are up in some places, as parents who can’t afford costly doctor visits look for another way to help sick children, while more families are sending in applications for free health screenings offered in schools.

Meanwhile, school nurses say they’re treating kids with symptoms — tummy aches, random pains, even teary outbursts — that seem linked to money-related stress.

…

Even parents who still have insurance are leaning more on school nurses. Sandi Delack, president-elect of the National Association of School Nurses and a practicing school nurse in Rhode Island, said a young boy recently spent an entire day in her office because his single father feared being fired if he left work to get him.

…

Delack said she’s also getting more requests for various free medical services offered through schools this year. Many schools offer programs such as free dental or vision check-ups for eligible students.

Other kids have shown up at her office and say their parents want her opinion before they seek care from a private physician.

Read more at the Morning Call.