The students of Hillcrest Elementary now have greater access to healthcare right from their school campus through an innovative partnership between Alamance-Burlington School System and Cone Health. The new school-based telehealth program, the first of its kind in the district, allows students to connect virtually with healthcare professionals, ensuring timely medical care and reducing the need for parents to leave work or students to miss extended classroom time.
To celebrate this milestone, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at Hillcrest Elementary on Wednesday, March 19, at 10:00 AM. District leaders, Cone Health representatives, school staff, and community members gathered to officially launch the program and highlight the benefits it brings to students and families.
"We are thrilled to introduce this telehealth program at Hillcrest Elementary, marking an important step in expanding access to healthcare for our students," said Superintendent Aaron Fleming. "Through this partnership with Cone Health and Burlington Pediatrics, we are ensuring that students can receive timely medical attention without leaving school, helping them stay healthy and focused on learning."
The telehealth program allows students experiencing minor illnesses or health concerns to be evaluated by a medical provider remotely, with the assistance of a school nurse. Parents can participate in virtual visits and, when necessary, prescriptions can be sent directly to a preferred pharmacy. By bringing healthcare into the school setting, this program helps minimize absenteeism and supports overall student wellness.
"My grandmother was a small-town schoolteacher. I understand the importance of being in class," says Cone Health President and CEO Dr. Mary Jo Cagle. "Missing half days and full days of instruction due to minor illnesses can be a huge obstacle, especially in elementary school. The generous support of local donors to this program gives these children a chance to succeed."
The launch of this telehealth program, made possible through philanthropic gifts to Cone Health, represents a growing commitment to integrating healthcare and education, ensuring that students have access to the resources they need to succeed both academically and physically.
