Sequoia Healthcare District approves $100,000 grant to the Redwood City School District for a health nurse

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Redwood City, CA, June 12, 2008 -- Sequoia Healthcare District approved funding for a school nurse for the Redwood City School District, for the fiscal year 2008-2009. The Healthcare District's Board of Directors approved the $100,000 grant which helps pay for a school nurse to help screen children for tooth decay and dental exams, which have been identified as a need.

Sequoia Healthcare District has funded the school nurse for the last three years. Redwood City School District nurses explained to the Board how the addition of this program will assist in the screening of children who do not otherwise have dental screenings. The children are then referred to appropriate dentists or dental clinics for further evaluation and treatment. Educating both children and their parents is a key factor in improving dental health in school children, the nurses added.

Sequoia Healthcare District Board President Kathleen Kane suggested that the nurses use the Children's Health Initiative since they provide insurance coverage and ensure prompt health and dental exams when appropriate.

About Sequoia Healthcare District
Headquartered in Redwood City, Sequoia Healthcare District has been providing healthcare through Sequoia Hospital since the early 1950s. In 1996, the District transferred operation of the Hospital to a non-profit organization in partnership with Catholic Healthcare West. In December 2007, the District entered into an agreement with its partner CHW to rebuild Sequoia Hospital. The District works collaboratively with local organizations to provide for the health care needs of the District's residents. District tax revenues are used for innovative programs and activities to achieve health, wellness and disease prevention in Southern San Mateo County. Communities in the District include Redwood City, San Carlos, Belmont, Menlo Park, Woodside, Atherton and Portola Valley.

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