HISD Expands Partnership with Hazel Health to Offer No-Cost Care at Every Campus

The Houston Independent School District (HISD) is set to offer no-cost telehealth care at every campus and Sunrise Center in the district, in partnership with Hazel Health. According to Najah Callendar, senior executive director of external engagement for HISD, "Hazel Health’s telemedicine services are one of the most exciting components of our Continuum of Care approach, and we’re thrilled to make these supports available to every student in the district."

As part of the expansion, HISD is investing $1.8 million to provide telehealth services for every student at no cost, along with resources to support school nurses and convenient virtual appointments. The partnership with Hazel Health will also offer behavioral and mental health counseling, access to a clinical support team, and immediate access to common medications.

Dr. Travis Gayles, Chief Health Officer at Hazel Health, highlighted the importance of the partnership in promoting health equity by ensuring all students can access the care they need. "Students will receive high-quality care regardless of their immigration status, ability to pay, or whether they have health insurance," Dr. Gayles said.

The foundation for this expanded partnership was laid with the creation of seven Sunrise Centers in 2023, strategically located in high-need areas throughout the district. These centers serve as community hubs offering essential services such as medical care, basic needs assistance, language classes, and employment support.

Hazel Health, as the nation’s largest provider of school-based telehealth, is committed to providing essential pediatric health care to students across the country. The upcoming community events organized by HISD and Hazel Health will aim to demonstrate how telehealth visits work and support campuses and families in accessing the available services.