Health & Well Being
In accordance to the Deed of Trust, Milton Hershey School® provides comprehensive health care to all enrolled students. This care includes services provided by pediatricians and other specialty physicians, nursing care, dental care and dental hygiene services, psychological and psycho educational assessment and therapy, behavioral health specialist, psychosocial and social work services and drug and alcohol specialists.
Health-Related Services/Confidentiality
Confidentiality is an important part of the Student Health Services program. Information is shared only after considering the student's need for privacy, others' "need to know," and applicable law. As a student becomes older, the student takes greater responsibility in deciding what information is shared and what information is not shared. The parent/sponsor is kept informed regarding a student's serious health concerns through the Student Health Services. Often a member of the professional staff will contact the family regarding student health concerns, and students are encouraged to communicate with their families.
At times, sensitive issues arise which a student may feel unable to discuss with his/her family. These might include issues of sexuality, birth control, pregnancy, and/or sexually-transmitted diseases. In such situations, and in order to provide timely information and treatment, the student's request for confidentiality will be respected. The student will be encouraged to understand the parent's/sponsor's concern for him/her, and support will be offered to aid the student in developing the ability to discuss sensitive issues with the parent/sponsor. It is also important that parents/sponsors develop and maintain open communications about these issues with their children. Parents/sponsors who feel that they are unable to discuss sensitive issues with their children are encouraged to contact Student Health Services.
Medical and Dental Services
Preventative and on-going medical and dental care is available to all students while enrolled at Milton Hershey School. The Medical Services staff provides health screenings, routine well-child care, acute care, immunizations, health promotions, and medication regimen. All routine dental procedures, as well as some specialty treatment, are provided. Physicians and nursing staff provide care in the medical and dental clinics within the academic building and at the Health Center.
Health Center
The School's Health Center is an infirmary for students who are ill and cannot fully participate in the regular Scholastic and/or Home Life programs. Admission to the Health Center is usually for a short period of time. Parents/sponsors may telephone their child when in the Health Center at (717) 520-2180.
Psychological/Counseling Services
Psychological/Counseling Services are available to all students who may need help in adjusting to school life or in coping with personal problems. Students who desire to speak with a counselor are encouraged to sign up for counseling at their school building. On occasion, parents/sponsors may wish to have a counselor speak with their child. Parents/sponsors are encouraged to make contact with the Psychological Services staff.
Student Health Services Questions and Contact Information
Questions about care and treatment for students should be directed to the Student Health Services staff working with the Division:
Elementary Division (grades PK-4):
Social Work Services/Coordinator of Student Health Services: (717) 520-3310
Medical Clinic RN: (717) 520-2500
Dental Clinic: (717) 520-2505
Psychological Services: (717) 520-2607
Middle Division (grades 5-8):
Social Work Services/Coordinator of Student Health Services: (717) 520-2264
Medical Clinic RN: (717) 520-2700
Psychological Services: (717) 520-2635
Senior Division (grades 9-12):
Social Work Services/Coordinator of Student Health Services: (717) 520-2267
Medical Clinic RN: (717) 520-2820
Psychological Services: (717) 520-2637
Additional Student Health Services numbers:
Drug & Alcohol Specialist: (717) 520-3433
Behavioral Services: (717) 520-3540
Health Center: (717) 520-2180
Copenhaver Center Dental Clinic: (717) 520-2701
Copenhaver Center Medical Clinic: (717) 520-3000
