Examining how school-based health centers can improve children's mental health and education.

A Multidisciplinary, Mixed Methods Analysis of the Implementation and Efficacy of School-Based Health Centers and Mechanisms through which SBHCs Improve Child Mental Health and Education Outcomes

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University · NIH-11000332

This study is looking at how school-based health centers can help kids with their mental health, especially after the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, to see how they can better support children who need it most in Tennessee.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11000332 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effectiveness of school-based health centers (SBHCs) in addressing the mental health needs of children, particularly in the wake of challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. By analyzing a comprehensive dataset of children in Tennessee, the study aims to understand how SBHCs can serve as a vital resource for vulnerable populations and improve access to mental health services. The research will explore the mechanisms through which these centers can enhance both mental health and educational outcomes, focusing on underserved groups. The approach includes a mixed-methods analysis to gather both quantitative and qualitative insights into the functioning of SBHCs.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years, particularly those from underserved communities who may benefit from enhanced access to mental health services.

Not a fit: Patients who are outside the age range of 0-11 years or those who do not have access to school-based health centers may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health services for children, enhancing their overall well-being and educational performance.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that school-based health centers can effectively improve access to care and health outcomes for children, suggesting a promising avenue for this study.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.