There is an ongoing health crisis in the community college sector. Exacerbated by the pandemic, the crisis has resulted in high rates of anxiety, depression, substance abuse, suicidal ideation, food insecurity, and more. Colleges often struggle to address these needs. Fewer than half of students experiencing a mental health condition receive mental health services.

Community colleges play a key role in the delivery of health services to students. But even though many community colleges offer student health services, only a small fraction bill Medicaid for any of the eligible services they offer.

Every college should have access to Medicaid funds in order to ensure student health and well-being. Increasing colleges’ participation in and optimal use of Medicaid to offset costs and generate recurring federal revenues can help remove healthcare access as a barrier to postsecondary completion and build the capacity of institutions to sustain student health funding.