School-based health centers in Louisiana: an introduction.

Up to 20% of students in America's public schools suffer from a chronic health condition. Working parents and the behavioral morbidities of the late 20th century put children at risk for poor physical health, poor mental health, and poor educational outcomes. Access to care is poor for adolescents in general and for the uninsured. School-Based Health Centers deliver primary mental and physical health care inside schools where the children are. They are run by interdisciplinary teams of professionals. They focus their efforts on primary care and prevention and collaborate with schools, parents, and the community to deliver this care.