Column by Kristen Gobel-Brown

Not feeling so great?

University Health Services (UHS) has solutions. UHS  is a service provided exclusively for students, tailored to students’ health care needs.

“Part of our mission is to treat the student so that they can get back to their classes and campus activities,” said UHS Clinical Director Dr. Ann Hays. “Good health plays a large part of a

student’s successful college experience.”

UK tuition includes a health fee for full-time students, and part-time students can voluntarily pay the fee or be seen on a fee-for-service basis.

Health insurance is strongly recommended to cover services that are not covered by the fee. Most students can get a same day appointment, which is required to see UHS staff.

If you need to be referred to a specialist, UHS has a full-time referral specialist to make sure the student’s complete needs are met.

UHS also offers a Phone Information Nurse for students who don’t have time for an appointment but want to talk to a medical provider.

The Phone Iformation Nurse can help triage your illness, suggest at-home remedies or work with your class schedule to get you in for an appointment if one is needed.

Speaking of appointment, did you know that UHS has a pharmacy?

Located on the first floor of the UHS building, students can get prescriptions filled quickly and for usually less than at off-campus pharmacies.

Prescriptions are not covered by the health fee and health insurance is recommended. The pharmacy also has over-the-counter medications and supplies.

The Student Health Advisory Council (SHAC), is a group of students that serves as the student body’s voice for health-related matters.

Biology senior Saher Haroon currently serves as SHAC president.

“The UHS staff is truly concerned about your health, and they do what they can to try and assist you with your needs,” Haroon said. “The staff tries to get to know you… and make you feel relaxed when you come for appointments.”

Kristen Gobel-Brown is the Clinical Administrator for University Health Services.