UHC telehealth services investment aims to improve health outcomes for Florida students
Schools have evolved into key support hubs that promote academic success and overall well-being for the student population. However, many children still face significant mental health challenges, with depression and anxiety being the most common concerns.1 Some children additionally face a lack of access to essential health services due to factors such as provider shortages and financial barriers. This gap can affect not only their well-being but also their academic performance, social relationships and long-term development.
Telehealth services can help children more easily receive health care services.2 School-based telehealth can include annual exams, chronic condition monitoring and behavioral health care. Students who access health care using telehealth in school may have reduced time away from class, reduced travel costs and increased availability for appointments. UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Florida is committed to improving health outcomes for students through support of Miami-Dade Public Schools’ (M-DCPS) collaboration with Hazel Health.
Hazel Health collaboration
M-DCPS’ new collaboration expands access to high-quality mental and physical health care for its K-12 students through virtual health care services both at
Comprehensive Hazel Health therapy outcomes as cited by Clemson University study
75% of students experienced reduced depression, anxiety
Services may reduce chronic absenteeism
68% of students had improved attendance
>30% had perfect attendance after starting therapy
school and at home. Access to these services began in February 2025, and this effort is part of a larger plan announced in 2024 to provide school-based virtual health services for up to 1M students across states nationwide.
Hazel Health, the nation’s largest provider of school-based telehealth services, serves over 5M students across 17 states.3 The telehealth organization provides culturally competent, accessible care with approximately 50% of its providers identify as Black, Indigenous and people of color, and 40% are bilingual, collectively speaking 29 languages. School leaders, teachers, counselors, nurses and families can refer students to Hazel Health’s services to ensure timely, accessible care.
Hazel Health impact
Hazel Health’s services have been shown to be effective. A study conducted by Clemson University found that 75% of students who participated in Hazel Health's therapy program experienced significant reductions in depression and anxiety after an average of six sessions.4 Early research also indicates the therapy program may reduce chronic absenteeism, with 68% of students showing improved attendance and over 30% achieving perfect attendance after beginning therapy.
By investing in student health today, Hazel Health and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Florida are laying the groundwork for improved student health outcomes.
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