Chronic disease management

Documentation, medical orders, and clear communication about chronic diseases and medication help students receive the care they need at school.  

Schools can provide care for students who take medication at school or who have chronic conditions like asthma, severe allergies, seizure disorders, or diabetes, but they need the right documentation to do so. Even children without chronic conditions should attend well visits and regular medical follow ups to stay healthy and prevent unnecessary school absences.  

See your school district’s School Health Services page for key forms required by your district.  

• Richmond Public Schools Services 
• Henrico County Public Schools Health Services 
• Chesterfield Public Schools Health Services 
• VDH also links to key forms on their website. 

Contact your student’s pediatrician to ask what they need from you, and how they would like you to proceed in order to get these important documents completed. All members of a child’s care team (parents or guardians, providers, school nurse, and after-school caregivers) should be familiar with the child’s school health forms. Direct communication and sharing information ensures that your student receives the best care and stays healthy at school.  

• Students with diabetes need a Diabetes Medical Management Plan (DMMP). DMMP and other forms can be found in the Virginia Diabetes Council Tool Kit. 
• Students with epilepsy should have a Seizure Action Plan 
• Students with severe allergies or asthma should complete an Anaphylaxis Emergency Action Plan. 
• Students with asthma should also have an Asthma Action Plan. There is more information on asthma in the section below.