Wildcat campus health cares

Most college students have a tough time paying for school, not to mention paying doctor bills. With the downturn in the economy, the struggle has become even harder. Many students are choosing to go without health insurance and try their best to avoid getting sick. However, the answer to many students' health problems may lie in the heart of the Weber State University Student Services Building on campus.

The WSU Student Health Center provides clinical medical care, x-ray services, and minor surgery. No insurance is needed for services, as student fees fund the center. Most services are free, but some tests may range anywhere from $10-$50, depending on if services require shipment of materials to other locations. If a sickness cannot be treated at the center, and the student has insurance, the center gives referrals if necessary.

The health center has locations in both the Davis and Ogden campuses, though some services are only available at the Ogden campus. There is also an on-site pharmacy that stocks the most common medications prescribed.

The health center is open from

8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the center's hours are limited during the summer.

"The busiest time of the day is usually from 10 a.m. to noon," said Health Center Receptionist Colette Cooper. "Last year we saw around 5,600 people. Most people find out about us from word of mouth."

Injuries and illnesses change by the season, but the center deals with anything from acute injuries and allergies to flu-like symptoms and strep throat. They also handle other types of illness and dermatological problems.

"We see mainly upper respiratory infections and lower respiratory infections," said Shawn McQuilkin, M.D. of Internal Medicine, who serves the Ogden Health Center. "We usually see around five cases of strep throat a week. We have a rapid strep test and we make that diagnosis two or three times a week."

Weber State is one of the few institutions in the state that provides these types of services without requiring a co-payment or other type of fee.

"Most people disqualify themselves from coming here because they think that they need insurance and that is just not true," said McQuilkin.

Dr. McQuilkin said his best advice for staying healthy is taking care of your body.

"In terms of prevention, I would recommend eight hours of sleep and a regular multi-vitamin every day. If you don't get enough sleep, you have a lower level of leptin which usually causes you to over eat," he said.

The pharmacy does offer some discounted prices, and is used mainly for convenience by many students.

"We have a real hard time keeping up with big chain store prices," Cooper said, "but a lot of people come here just for the convenience. They can go to class and then come pick up their prescription before they go home."

All registered students with a current Wildcard are eligible to use the health center, as well as spouses with a current spouse card. The center is located in Room 190 in the Student Services Building. For more information visit departments.weber.edu/healthcenter.