Health remains an essential and unique part of Head Start.
In 2016-17, NHSA conducted a voluntary survey of Head Start programs asking about access to medical, dental, mental, and other health services in their communities. A total of 482 Head Start programs participated in the survey, approximately one quarter of Head Start and Early Head Start grantee and delegate agencies nationwide. While participation was voluntary, the programs that responded closely reflect the national diversity of grantee auspices and sizes.
The results of this survey provide insight into both the successes and challenges that Head Start programs and families currently experience accessing health services in their communities. In this report, NHSA presents the results, revealing the state of health services, identifying needs, and proposing recommendations to improve access to and quality of these services.
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