GALLIPOLIS, Ohio (WCHS) — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced two grants in Gallia County on Monday afternoon to improve health care for students while supporting the economy.
Gallia County Schools and Gallipolis City Schools have both raised more than $5 million to build wellness centers.
“This is a part of the state that sometimes feels forgotten. I think the funding we’re announcing will make a big difference in Gallia County,” said Ohio Governor DeWine (R).
The funds will be used to build wellness centers in southern Gallia County and on the Gallia Academy High School campus. We will be equipped with facilities that can respond to a variety of medical needs. Although students are given priority, the Wellness Center also serves local residents.
“What we’re finding with these school-based clinics is that not only do we improve the health of our students and staff, but we also improve the health of our communities,” Governor DeWine said.
He said the money is federal money given to the state to improve health care across Appalachia.
“Some kids are on Medicaid. Some kids aren’t, but Medicaid will take care of it. They can’t afford it, so it will be taken care of. The whole idea is that while in school, That means if someone gets sick, they can go to the clinic right away,” Governor DeWine said.
The state is partnering with Holzer Health Systems to build the wellness center. In addition to his two in Gallia County, 30 more are being built throughout the Appalachian region.
“They are offering students an alternative way and an alternative location to receive health care,” said Dr. Rod Stout, CEO of Holzer Health Systems.
“There are no services available in the southern end of the county, so if you live in the Mercerville area or the Crown City area, it’s a 20 to 25 minute drive to get to a health care provider,” said Gallia County Schools Superintendent Philip Kuhn. Deaf,” he said.
School officials hope to begin construction this fall and have the facility completed next school year.
