University Health Services: Helpful Or Hindrance?

Student health services at universities have evolved to meet the growing and complex demands of students. In addition to providing low-cost primary medical care, these services often include mental health support, wellness education, and referral services. The scope of services varies, with some universities offering more comprehensive care than others. While most colleges require health insurance and offer a range of options, the quality and accessibility of student health services can vary, and it is important for students and their parents to carefully consider their choices and understand the limitations of each plan.

The pros and cons of university health insurance plans

University health insurance plans can be beneficial for students, but it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Here are some key points to consider:

Pros:

• Compliance with the Affordable Care Act (ACA): Nearly all student health plans offered by universities are fully compliant with the ACA. This means they cover pre-existing conditions, provide preventive care at no additional cost, include essential health benefits, and do not impose annual or lifetime benefit caps.
• Local provider networks: University health plans typically include local providers, making it easier for students to access in-network care while studying.
• Additional financial aid: Some universities offer financial aid to help students cover the costs of their health plan.
• Confidentiality: Students have better confidentiality when they are on a separate health plan from their parents. They can authorize access to their healthcare information for specific individuals, such as parents, if desired.
• Specialised services: University health services often cater specifically to the needs of students, including mental health support, sexual health services, and treatment for common illnesses and injuries.
• Low-cost primary care: University health services provide low-cost, primary medical care, and some offer certain medications and basic services at little to no charge.

Cons:

• Limited coverage period: Some university health insurance plans may only provide coverage during the academic year, requiring students to purchase additional short-term plans or rely on their parents' insurance during breaks.
• Cost: The cost of university health plans can be high, with premiums sometimes bundled with tuition and running into several thousand dollars a year.
• Limited services: Smaller universities may have less comprehensive services and act as a link to services in the immediate community.
• Confidentiality concerns: While students have better confidentiality on separate health plans, medical bills and explanations of benefits are typically sent directly to the student, who may then need to share this information with their parents for financial support.
• Network limitations: If a student attends university far from home, they may need to see out-of-network doctors when relying on their parents' health insurance plan.

Ultimately, the decision to enrol in a university health insurance plan depends on various factors, including cost, the level of services provided, and the student's individual needs. Comparing the university plan with other options, such as remaining on a family plan or purchasing an individual plan, can help determine the best choice.

The affordability of university health services

University health services are designed to provide low-cost, primary medical care for students. In the past, most universities believed that their only responsibility for student health was to set up a clinic to treat the sick and injured. However, today, many institutions of higher education provide much more, driven by a broader and better understanding of health and its impact on learning.

Funding

University health services are often funded through fees paid to the college or university by students, and these may be included in tuition charges or charged separately. Prepayment for student health services in this way ensures that students have access to treatment while at school. Basic and common services are often offered to full-time students at little or no charge, and over-the-counter medications may be provided for free. However, students will usually be charged for prescription medications and incur charges for lab work, diagnostic tests, and services provided by outside physicians and specialists.

Affordability

Most colleges and universities require students to have and maintain health insurance, and while many students are covered by their parents' health insurance plans, others may need to purchase individual health insurance, often through programs offered by their college or university.

The cost of health insurance and medical care can be a significant burden for students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. Even students with private health insurance through their parents may face affordability challenges due to high deductibles. Additionally, students may delay or avoid seeking medical care to avoid their family finding out about issues related to sexual health, mental health, or substance abuse.

Accessibility

The accessibility of university health services is also a concern, with some students facing long travel distances to reach health facilities. Delayed health-seeking behaviour due to inaccessible health services can increase morbidity and mortality among students.

Impact of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has also had an impact on the affordability and accessibility of university health services, with many health services being postponed or canceled during the early stages of the pandemic. The pandemic has led to new costs for vaccination, testing, and treatment, and it has also caused shifts in health utilization and spending.

University health services play a crucial role in supporting the health and well-being of students. However, the cost and accessibility of these services can be a challenge for many students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensuring that all students have access to affordable and timely medical care during their time at university.

The accessibility of university health services

University health services have become increasingly accessible to students in recent years. Driven by a broader understanding of health and its impact on learning, many institutions of higher education have expanded their health services to include not just treating medical problems but also managing serious chronic conditions and promoting healthy habits.

Funding and Insurance

University health centres are typically funded through fees paid by students, which may be included in tuition charges or charged separately as a student health fee. In addition, some universities include a health insurance plan with tuition, which can be waived if the student is already covered by their parent's insurance. Students can also opt to remain on their parent's insurance plan, as they are eligible to do so until the age of 26 under the Affordable Care Act.

Range of Services

The range of services provided by university health centres varies widely. While some universities have full-time physicians on staff, particularly larger institutions with medical centres, others maintain part-time relationships with local doctors. Most university health centres are now led by licensed nurse practitioners, registered nurses, or physician assistants.

University health services typically cover three primary areas: physical, mental, and educational health. Physical health services can range from basic care for colds and minor injuries to more comprehensive services such as lab tests, X-rays, and pharmacies. Mental health services may include basic intervention and referral for long-term care, as well as extensive and long-term psychotherapy. Educational health services focus on promoting healthier lifestyles and preventing future illness or injury.

Confidentiality

University health centres generally maintain confidentiality in their services, with the responsibility of informing parents falling to the student in most cases. However, health services staff may break confidentiality if there is concern about harm to the student or others, usually with the student's permission.

Accessibility for Different Groups

Research has shown that certain groups of students are more likely to utilise university health services. Private institutions, for example, have substantially higher rates of utilisation than public institutions. Additionally, female students tend to use health services more than male students, and younger students are seen at much higher rates for all categories of health services. University health services are also accessible and receptive to diverse populations of students, with higher utilisation rates among the principal ethnic groups.

The quality of care provided by university health services

The range and level of services offered by university health centres vary. While some centres are led by licensed nurse practitioners, registered nurses, or physician assistants, others have full-time physicians on staff or maintain part-time relationships with local doctors. The most comprehensive centres offer lab tests, X-rays, specialists, and pharmacies, while less comprehensive centres provide basic care for common illnesses and injuries. Many universities also offer counselling services, ranging from basic intervention to long-term psychotherapy.

University health services play a crucial role in promoting health and preventing illnesses. They actively engage in fighting substance use, promoting good nutrition, sleep, and exercise habits, and educating students about making healthier choices. Additionally, they address headline-making issues such as campus safety, suicide prevention, sexual assault, and alcohol and drug abuse. With the increasing number of international students and global pandemics, universities also need to provide long-distance medical and safety counselling to students studying or travelling abroad.

The funding for university health centres comes from various sources, including student fees, institutional resources, and tuition charges. Some universities include health insurance plans in their tuition, while others offer it as an optional add-on. Students can also choose to remain on their parents' health insurance plans until the age of 26, as allowed by the Affordable Care Act. The choice between insurance plans depends on factors such as coverage, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs.

Overall, university health services have expanded beyond traditional medical care to encompass a holistic approach to student wellness. They adapt to the changing demands and complexities of student health, striving to provide accessible and affordable care to support the academic success and long-term health of their students.

The impact of university health services on student success

University health services have a significant impact on the success of students, providing critical support that enables them to thrive academically and personally. The services offered have evolved over the years, going beyond merely treating illnesses and injuries to encompass a broader understanding of health and its influence on learning. This shift reflects the recognition that student well-being is integral to their academic achievement and future success.

Meeting Student Health Needs

University health services play a crucial role in meeting the diverse health needs of students. These needs include managing chronic conditions such as asthma, ADHD, eating disorders, addiction, autism spectrum disorders, and physical disabilities. Additionally, mental health support has become an essential aspect, with a growing number of students struggling with issues like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. University health centres also provide sexual health services, including contraception and STD prevention and treatment, which are vital for promoting overall student well-being.

Promoting Healthy Habits

University health services have expanded their focus to include health promotion and disease prevention. They actively engage in encouraging healthy lifestyle choices, such as proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and regular exercise, while also discouraging the use of tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs. By empowering students to take responsibility for their health and make informed decisions, these services contribute to their overall success and well-being.

Impact on Academic Performance

The availability of quality health services on campus has a direct impact on students' academic performance. When students are physically and mentally healthy, they have greater capacity to learn and fully engage in their educational experiences, both inside and outside the classroom. This positive impact on learning is particularly notable in students with chronic health conditions, who may require ongoing support to manage their conditions effectively.

Accessibility and Affordability

University health services are typically low-cost or included in tuition fees, making them accessible to most students. This accessibility ensures that students can seek treatment without worrying about financial barriers, allowing them to focus on their studies. Moreover, these services often act as a referral source, connecting students with specialised medical providers in the community when needed.

University health services have a profound impact on student success, not only by treating illnesses and injuries but also by promoting overall health and well-being. By addressing the physical and mental health needs of students and fostering healthy habits, these services create an environment conducive to academic achievement and personal growth. As such, universities that invest in comprehensive and accessible health services contribute significantly to the success and bright future of their student population.

Frequently asked questions