Hazel Health

Hazel Health: virtual medical and mental health care for K-12 students

Hazel Health is an online health care provider focused on elementary and secondary school students (K-12). The company works in collaboration with school districts and health plans to deliver physical and mental health services over the internet, with the goal of helping students stay engaged in learning. Its presentation describes it as the number one health care provider for K-12 students in the country, a claim that comes from the company itself.

Physical and mental health services

The company offers two main lines of care: online therapy and online medical care. Both are designed to serve children and adolescents, from allergies to anxiety, according to the site. The clinical team is made up of professionals from various specialties, including physicians, advanced practice nurses, physician assistants, licensed clinical social workers, licensed professional counselors, and marriage and family therapists. Care is provided individually, with flexible scheduling and year-round access.

Reach and coverage

According to published data, Hazel Health operates in 21 states, with more than 200 school districts and more than 6,000 schools, and has served more than 5 million students. The company states that more than 130,000 families trust it for their children's care. Access to services is arranged through the local school district or the student's health plan, and availability can be checked by searching for the corresponding school district.

Clinical and behavioral outcomes

The site includes various outcome indicators. A Clemson University study indicates that 8 out of 10 children and adolescents experience a reduction in anxiety and depression within six Hazel therapy sessions. A post-program family survey indicates that 84% of parents report a positive change in their child's behavior, that 7 out of 10 parents feel less stressed since their child began receiving help, and that 61% of families report significant reductions in stress. In addition, a case study from Duval Public School District points to more than 11 additional school days attended compared to the previous year. Regarding convenience, 8 out of 10 parents and caregivers indicate that Hazel visits reduce missed work or childcare needs.

Testimonials from families and educators

The website includes opinions from students, parents, and school officials. A student from Florida highlights that it was easy to open up to her therapist and that she felt heard. A mother states that her daughter gained confidence and learned lifelong coping strategies. Another mother acknowledges that she was wrong about online therapy and that her daughter connected with her therapist. A father notes that his son improved his grades and motivation. The superintendent of Polk County Public Schools (Florida) considers that Hazel allows school staff to address real problems, and the superintendent of Los Nietos School District emphasizes the value of prevention and the message of support for families.

Resources for families

The company maintains a resource center with articles and videos aimed at helping children feel better. Among the published content are tips to ease the back-to-school transition, guidance for overcoming test anxiety, and a video on how one family member's distress affects the whole family.

Legal and operational structure

Health care services are provided by Telehealth Services USA PC, Telehealth Services Northeast PC, or Telehealth Services South PA, all operating under the trade name Hazel Health Services. The company also offers interested school districts the possibility of requesting a consultation to learn about its programs.