We’ve all heard the sniffles and coughs in class recently, some more severe than others. Getting sick for the first time away from home can feel like the end of the world if you are unaware of the resources you have access to. Locating a health care provider in Austin can be a daunting task, especially if you have a close relationship with your doctor back home.
College students may be wary about seeking health care because of distance, cost of service or lack of information. According to Civic Science, 38% of individuals aged 18-24 report avoiding visiting the doctor. While medical avoidance is common, young people deserve to feel secure in their decision to go to seek medical services.
Many young adults of college age dodge seeking medical care, largely because of financial concerns. It is important for students to know that there are resources for them to make it easier to get help, like University Health Services. Susan Hochman, executive director of UHS, thinks the difference between UHS and outside providers is in the perspective of how to care for the student.
“When students come to see us, we understand that they are students first,” Hochman said. “When they are presenting us with whatever health care issue, we understand that in the context that they are a student.”
Students should know that they have health care options that they pay for already, as they are automatically enrolled in a student health insurance plan at registration. UHS also has an urgent care clinic for students experiencing emergencies for a lower cost than others in Austin.
“Many students are surprised when they see the scope of care that we offer,” Hochman said. “This is so far from what you’d see in a high school, with regards to healthcare.”
UT has a wide range of options for students who are interested in seeking medical attention on-campus. In addition to UHS, students have access to the Counseling and Mental Health Center, where they are able to seek individual counseling. For those who want to explore wellness, the Longhorn Wellness Center is available with health engagement and education. Healthyhorns, the comprehensive system of the above resources, focuses on being centered around the care of the student.
For students without insurance, it is still possible to seek help. On-campus health services provide payment plans and emergency funding for those who are concerned about seeking care due to financial worry.
On-campus health resources are also more convenient than other health care options. With an on-campus facility and various walk-in clinics, seeking services with UHS may be more beneficial for students. Giselle Cerda, business honors and accounting sophomore, prefers using UHS services.
“As for the services that they provide and scheduling, I would say it’s pretty easy,” Cerda said. “It’s pretty quick.”
Utilizing on-campus health care resources can provide students who seek health care with a more convenient, cheaper alternative. The Forty Acres is here to support you, and that includes your wellness.
Lechner is a journalism and political communication sophomore from Rowlett, Texas.
