By EMILY WEBERSKI/Contributor
The college students’ expenses have seems to grow every day. Due to rising costs, some students are having to make choices between receive healthcare.
“I have friends that have avoided the doctor because they couldn’t afford it,” Katie Robinson, a sophomore education major at UT Tyler, said.
Joy Johnson, assistant director of Community Wellness at the Northeast Texas Public Health District, said healthcare costs have risen exponentially over the years.
“They rose about 5% in the last five years and they’re expected to grow another 4% by 2032,” Johnson said.
This rise in healthcare costs combined with the costs of necessities like rent and tuition can put students in a difficult situation.
“Students are having to choose between their housing or gas or food or healthcare,” Johnson said.
Students of UT Tyler can take advantage of health services offered at The UT Tyler University Health Clinic (UHC).
“As your student health clinic, the UHC recognizes that your health and well-being are vital
components of your success as a UT Tyler student,” the UHC website states.
According to the website, services offered include:
- bacterial meningitis vaccines, which are a requirement for attendance
- basic health check-ups
- STD testing
- and pap smears.
The UHC does not focus solely on physical health, however. A 24/7 mental health hotline is
offered at 903-566-7254.
The service is free. The UHC website promises confidentiality except in emergencies.
Material discussed during counseling does not affect a student’s academic record, and staff follow privacy laws outlined by HIPAA.
They also boast of having a judgement-free staff, saying “No problem is too big or small.”
The University Health Clinic, 3310 Patriot Drive, is available to all students. It can be reached at (903) 939-7870.
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