Iron County School District Introduces Expanded Health Services for Students

Tiffany Johnson, Nurse Supervisor for the Iron County School District, joined us on the radio to discuss upcoming changes to student health services in the district. Beginning in 2025, new initiatives aim to improve student wellness and reduce barriers for parents.

One significant update is the district’s expanded policy on over-the-counter medications. Previously, students were limited to receiving one dose of Tylenol per school year. Now, with parental consent, students can access additional medications like allergy relief, making it easier to manage symptoms and stay in class. Johnson emphasized the importance of parental involvement, noting that parents must complete an electronic consent form, available on each school’s website under the Community tab, and provide verbal approval at the time of administration.

Johnson highlighted the flexibility for students managing their own medication. “Students can carry one dose of a medication in a labeled container,” she explained. This policy supports students who may need occasional medications, such as antibiotics, during school hours. Exceptions exist for emergency medications like insulin, which students may carry freely.

Another innovative service is the district’s collaboration with Connect Care, a school-based telehealth program. This service allows students to participate in virtual doctor visits from the school health office. Parents can join these appointments virtually or rely on school nurses to manage the process and relay results. Johnson called this program a "great option for working parents or those with young children at home."

With winter illnesses on the rise, including strep throat, bronchitis, and stomach bugs, these telehealth services aim to help parents secure timely treatment for their children, reducing time away from school. Prescriptions issued during telehealth visits must still be filled by parents at local pharmacies.

Johnson also urged parents to communicate with schools about their children’s chronic health conditions to ensure the creation of appropriate care plans. “We can’t help if we don’t know,” she reminded listeners.

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For more information about these services, visit the Iron County School District’s website or contact your child’s school.

You can hear our visit with Johnson in the podcast below.