Coralis Health and Galena City School District are proud to announce their game-changing partnership to help the children of Alaska. Spearheaded by Coralis Health’s Dr. Starrina Gianelloni and Kelly McBride, Director of Student Support Services for Galena City School District, this unique collaboration brings hope and access to children and their families.
For years, rural Alaska communities like Galena have faced unique challenges in providing developmental and behavioral support to students and families. Geographic isolation and a shortage of qualified providers have often meant that children wait much too long, or even go without, the care they need.
An Urgent Need For Access and Early Diagnoses
There is an urgent need to provide specialized development behavioral services to children with developmental concerns across the United States. This need is especially pressing in states with more rural areas, such as Alaska.
For example, the latest statistics on autism show that 1 in 31 children will be diagnosed with autism. At the same time, the wait to see a developmental behavioral pediatrician can average 8 months to 2 years due to a lack of qualified specialists and an overburdened healthcare system. This is a critical situation, and the clock is literally ticking for these children.
A child’s brain is most adaptable to change in the early years of life, as the neural connections that create the foundation for behavior and learning are forming. As a child grows, these connections solidify and become harder to change. Successful outcomes depend on initiating therapy as early as possible. Delays in diagnoses and treatment can lead to less favorable outcomes, while early intervention gives a child with a developmental issue the ability to reach their full potential and thrive!
Transforming Developmental and Behavioral Healthcare In Alaska
According to the Alaska Governor’s Council on Disabilities and Special Education, following national trends, rates of autism are rising in Alaska, further demonstrating the need and importance of early screening and intervention. By leveraging innovative solutions that overcome distance and resource limitations, this partnership isn’t just about improving services in Galena – it’s about creating a model that could transform how developmental and behavioral healthcare is delivered across Alaska.
Approximately 82% of Alaska communities are off the road system, and have limited access to healthcare, especially developmental and behavioral assessment and support. Currently, for many of these communities the only way to receive specialized care would be to travel either by expensive flight or boat to Anchorage.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to expand our reach to the remote areas of Alaska,” says Dr. Gianelloni, “Galena, like much of Alaska, is off the road system. Opening our clinic up to these communities could have a huge impact on access to care, and I’m looking forward to expanding our offerings to help families connect to support services in our most remote locations.”
“Our partnership with Coralis Health is a game-changer,” notes Kelly McBride, Director of Student Support Services for Galena City School District. “Together, we came up with a solution to meet not only the educational needs for children who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities, but also help families access home and community-based services. We believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, no matter where they live.”
Dr. Gianelloni adds, “The Galena school district special education team has shown remarkable innovation and compassion. Their willingness to embrace new approaches, and prioritize their students’ developmental needs, reflects a deep commitment to families. Together, we’re redefining what access to care can look like for children across Alaska.”
To find out more about our developmental behavioral healthcare in Alaska, or in any of the other locations that we provide service, please visit our provider locations pages or reach out to us at our main office. We are always here to help!
