Should Public Education Dollars Be Used to Subsidize a Community Medical Center?

Dear Christina,

I'm struggling with this issue.  At last week's board meeting at Stubbs, the board heard the impassioned pleas of those advocating that we approve a plan to convert a portion of our headquarters, the Drew Building, into a health clinic as part of Christina's Community School intiative in the City of Wilmington.  The board is scheduled to vote next month on the plan.

Children and Families 1st (no relation to our blog, Children & Educators First) has enlisted the Henrietta Johnson Medical Center as the potential partner.  HJ already has a clinic in Southbridge.  They would be opening a satelite location in 3,200 sq. ft. of space in Drew to be accessible by a separate entrance.  The Community Schools project will identify and obtain the funding for the conversion of the space.  In return, Christina will allow Henrietta Johnson to use the space for free in addition to conitnuing to pay the utilities on the space.  HJ will then provide the health care services to any member of the public who seeks medical care (covered either by ones' health insurance or on a sliding fee scale based on ability to pay.)

The benefits are obvious - the plan creates accessible healthcare for children and adults on the east side of town eliminating unreliable transportation burdens affecting area residents.  And I know its right to make healthcare as accessible as possible for our children.  It's our moral obligation. 

Yet, I struggle with the idea of using tax payer money earmarked for education to support a medical center.  So, I'm putting out to you, Christina - please share your thoughts in the comments section. 

Thank You,
Elizabeth