Meet Kelly Orringer, M.D., co-medical director of the Regional Alliance for Healthy Schools (RAHS), a pediatrician devoted to youth well-being.
With more than two decades of experience, she's been an integral part of Michigan Medicine since completing her pediatrics residency in 1997.
Recently appointed as co-medical director of RAHS, Orringer spearheads initiatives to promote and enhance the health of youth and their families in the region, tackling unique health challenges faced by school-aged children and adolescents.
Q: Tell us a bit about yourself! How long have you been practicing? How long have you been with RAHS? What is the most interesting challenge (so far) that you've worked on?
KO: I completed my pediatrics residency in 1997 and have been with Michigan Medicine ever since. I joined RAHS three years ago and recently became co-medical director. The most interesting challenges have been helping to obtain essential health care services for several immigrant and refugee families seen at the RAHS Ypsilanti Community Middle School-based health center, helping them get their vaccines and checkups needed to enroll in school, and also welcoming them to our community.
Q: Can you share with us the key initiatives and programs that RAHS is currently focusing on to promote and improve the health and well-being of youth and their families?
KO: RAHS is spearheading so many initiatives! Behavioral health support is a true cornerstone of school-based health centers, and RAHS in particular. Ongoing training for the RAHS team and expansion of behavioral health supports to reach more youth and adolescents is essential. Additionally, RAHS is dedicated to helping families find reliable, evidence-based medical homes to ensure comprehensive health care.
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