Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
Students at Bossier High School now have increased access to healthcare with the official opening of a new school-based clinic operated by David Raines Community Health Centers (DRCHC). The grand opening event took place on March 5, 2025, from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M., featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a tour of the facility.
The addition of this clinic expands DRCHC’s school-based network to 17 locations in Caddo and Bossier Parishes, as part of its mission to provide essential healthcare services to students. As a federally qualified health center (FQHC), DRCHC has been serving Northwest Louisiana for over 50 years, offering care to underserved, low-income, and insured residents. The new clinic at 2777 Bearkat Dr. is a significant step in addressing healthcare access gaps for students who may otherwise struggle to receive medical care.
The Bossier High School clinic will provide a comprehensive range of services, including:
✔ Primary and preventive care
✔ Immunizations
✔ Sick visits
✔ Physical exams
✔ Behavioral health support
By integrating healthcare within the school, students can receive necessary medical attention without missing class, allowing them to return to their studies more quickly. Andrea McKnight, DRCHC’s Development Director, emphasized that this initiative aims to reduce absenteeism, improve overall student wellness, and boost academic success.
“Historically, we’ve seen that health centers positively impact school attendance. We have already observed a decrease in absenteeism at Bossier High School,” McKnight said. “This allows for more instructional time and, in turn, greater academic achievement.”
DRCHC’s school-based health centers (SBHCs) are strategically located in Title I schools, where students and families often face financial hardships. The clinic allows children to receive care without their parents missing work, which is critical for families who cannot afford to take time off for a doctor’s visit.
“When a clinic is on campus, a child can walk in, be evaluated and treated, and go back to class all before the next period begins,” McKnight explained.
The selection of Bossier High School as the site for the newest clinic was the result of a partnership between DRCHC and the Bossier Parish School Board, identifying areas where students have the greatest need for healthcare services.
The success of DRCHC’s existing school-based clinics suggests that similar models could be expanded to other schools. McKnight confirmed that discussions are ongoing with the Bossier Parish School Board to explore additional healthcare access opportunities for students in the region.
“It is our vision to fill gaps in care for the communities we serve,” she said. “The Bossier Parish School Board has been an incredible partner, and we look forward to continuing this collaboration to support students’ healthcare needs.”
The Bossier High School clinic will operate Monday through Friday, from 7:00 A.M. to 3:30 P.M., aligning with school hours to ensure maximum accessibility for students.
For more information about David Raines Community Health Centers and its services, visit www.davidraineschc.org.