Mtn. View HS set to add school-based health center, though weather delays modulars’ arrival

(Update: Adding video, comments from Mosaic pediatric manager, MVHS student)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Mountain View High School is getting a new addition to its campus: a school-based health center that is expected to open this spring. But, its arrival has been delayed for a few days due to a snowy spring break.

Bridget McGinn, communications manager for Mosaic Community Health, said the modular's transport company was taking Interstate 84, but it has been closed to wide loads through Thursday evening, pushing back its scheduled early-week arrival.

The goal is to get the two-section modular structure to the campus on Friday and start the process of putting it together and equipping it for its upcoming use.

Mosaic Community Health's pediatric manager, Tamarra Harris, explained why the center is needed.

"If your physical and your mental health are well, you're going to do better in school -- and in life," Harris said Tuesday.

The health center will be the sixth in Deschutes County and will be staffed with a pediatric primary care provider, medical assistant, receptionist, behavioral health consultant and a behavioral specialist.

"It will house two exam rooms, two behavioral health rooms and a break room and really, truly be a welcoming space," Harris said.

The clinic is a partnership between Mosaic Community Health, Bend-La Pine Schools and Deschutes County Behavioral Health.

It's being funded through grants, private donations, and district funding, at a total cost of $700,000. The clinic will be open to anyone up to age 18, whether enrolled in the school or not. Health insurance is not required.

The health center will offer physical, behavioral and preventative health services, as well as giving students an opportunity to visit during the day. It will help reduce costs, transportation and inconvenience for students.

Mountain View student Mia Pacifico understands its importance.

"It would be important," she said, "because it's a easy way to get access to help and health."

The center is already painted to align with Mountain View High School's colors. It's expected to open to patients on May 1.

You can learn more about Bend-La Pine Schools' current school-based health centers and other health and wellness offerings here.

Here's a fact sheet about the new health center and its offerings: