Utilization of University Health Center among Residential & Commuter Students
Presentation Type
Poster
Faculty Advisor
Sarah Kelly
Access Type
Event
Start Date
26-4-2024 11:15 AM
End Date
26-4-2024 12:15 PM
Description
Background: University health centers provide valuable medical services and resources to students. Few studies examined the utilization of college campus health centers across the United States. The purpose of this study was to compare students who commute to campus with those who live on campus and the utilization of the health center on campus. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a college campus in the northeast. Study participants were administered a 37-question survey. Questions on the survey focused on students' overall use of the health center. Frequencies and chi-square analysis were used to explore the relationship among the variables. Results: There was statistical significance between residential status and the type of healthcare facility that is used. Most commuter students preferred to seek medical care at a private practice. There was no statistical difference between residential and commuter students and their reason for seeking out care at the health center. Discussion: Many students used private practice for their medical needs. This aligns with the fact that most students commute to campus. Those residing at home may utilize private insurance and prefer private practice clinics that are conveniently located near their home. In addition to this, commuter students may prefer to use reduced-fee, free services, or other healthcare sites such as the CVS Minute Clinic rather than going to a doctor. Health centers at universities are accessible to all enrolled students, yet there's a need for clarity regarding the utilization of offered services.
Utilization of University Health Center among Residential & Commuter Students
Background: University health centers provide valuable medical services and resources to students. Few studies examined the utilization of college campus health centers across the United States. The purpose of this study was to compare students who commute to campus with those who live on campus and the utilization of the health center on campus. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a college campus in the northeast. Study participants were administered a 37-question survey. Questions on the survey focused on students' overall use of the health center. Frequencies and chi-square analysis were used to explore the relationship among the variables. Results: There was statistical significance between residential status and the type of healthcare facility that is used. Most commuter students preferred to seek medical care at a private practice. There was no statistical difference between residential and commuter students and their reason for seeking out care at the health center. Discussion: Many students used private practice for their medical needs. This aligns with the fact that most students commute to campus. Those residing at home may utilize private insurance and prefer private practice clinics that are conveniently located near their home. In addition to this, commuter students may prefer to use reduced-fee, free services, or other healthcare sites such as the CVS Minute Clinic rather than going to a doctor. Health centers at universities are accessible to all enrolled students, yet there's a need for clarity regarding the utilization of offered services.