The Pennsylvania Department of Education initiated the ACCESS Program during the 1991-92 school year. The program, now referred to as the School-Based ACCESS Program (SBAP), is an avenue for school entities to receive additional federal funding through Medicaid dollars for medical/mental health-related special education services rendered by qualified staff to students enrolled in the PA Medical Assistance Program.

The SBAP is a partnership between the PA Department of Education (PDE) and the PA Department of Public Welfare (DPW). Public Consulting Group (PCG) is the statewide contractor selected by PDE to perform the day-to-day operations of the SBAP.

Funds received from the SBAP must be used within the district or intermediate unit’s special education program.