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Tag: Wellness

Peer Support on Campus

How to Bring Peer Support to Your Campus

Written by Medicat on . Posted in Industry Articles.

A Guide to Building and Sustaining Successful Programs

Peer support programs have become a vital part of supporting student mental health, empowering students to connect and support one another. These initiatives help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, creating supportive networks where students can openly share their experiences and challenges.

The structuring of these programs can vary, but at their core, they are student-led initiatives that create a safe space for mental health conversations.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the benefits of peer support programs and how to incorporate a peer support program on your campus. We’ll also share insights from Clare Kehoe and Lindsey Kilpatrick from Morgan’s Message, an organization shedding light on student-athlete mental health and peer support programs.

But First – Why Are Peer Support Programs So Important, Anyway?

Peer support programs are designed to foster connections among students, allowing them to share experiences and provide mutual support. The structure of these programs can vary, but at their core, they are student-led initiatives that create a safe space for mental health conversations.

Studies show that 20% of college students engage in formal peer counseling, and another 62% of those who haven’t yet used it express interest in doing so. The most common reasons students seek peer support include:

  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Social Life Challenges
  • Loneliness

Moreover, culturally competent peer counseling is especially important, as usage is higher among Black students (39%), Transgender students (39%), and first-generation students (29%). These students often prioritize finding peer counselors with shared identities and experiences.

Not only do students want support, but they also find meaning in giving it. Around 45% of students who provide peer counseling cite “helping others” as their primary motivation. Also, those involved in peer counseling report higher well-being scores than those who do not participate.

A significant portion of students—36%—say that, when facing a serious mental health issue, they would first turn to a friend or romantic partner for support. The desire for peer support has been amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic, with 48% of students reporting they are now more likely to seek peer counseling. This is especially true for Black students (58%), Latinx students (54%), Transgender students (61%), and first-generation students (54%).

The Advisor’s Role in Peer Support Programs: Dos and Don’ts

Having a staff or faculty advisor is crucial for the success of peer support programs. Advisors provide essential support, strengthen the initiative, and help drive meaningful change on campus. They bridge student-led efforts with the broader campus community, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and securing necessary resources.

Here’s a quick guide to maximize their impact:

Dos for Advisors:

  • Facilitate logistics: Help students reserve rooms, coordinate schedules, and manage event setups.
  • Provide administrative support: Ensure compliance with campus policies and assist with communication across departments.
  • Empower student leaders: Offer guidance without overshadowing or micromanaging their initiatives.
  • Foster collaboration: Serve as a bridge between student groups and campus administration to align efforts with institutional goals.
  • Encourage skill development: Help students build skills in organization, communication, and leadership through their roles in the program.

Don’ts for Advisors:

  • Take over decision-making: Allow students to lead and own their programs to maintain the authenticity of peer support.
  • Limit creativity: Avoid imposing rigid structures that could stifle innovation, collaboration, or enthusiasm.
  • Undermine student voices: Always prioritize and respect student input and lived experiences in shaping program initiatives.
  • Neglect program alignment: Ensure that the program consistently reflects the mission and needs of the campus community.

Focusing on these dos and don’ts creates an environment where students thrive, fostering collaboration and lasting impact through peer support programs.

Maximizing the Impact of Peer-Led Programs

According to the College Peer Support Report 2023, peer-led initiatives are uniquely positioned to address a wide range of student needs, from fostering inclusion to supporting academic and emotional well-being. To ensure these programs reach their full potential, campuses should focus on four key strategies:

  1. Empower Students and Those with Lived Experiences to Lead: Student-led programs are uniquely positioned to address broader issues that impact student engagement and inclusion. Unlike staff-led initiatives, these programs often offer group activities, academic support, and opportunities to foster community connections, making them a cornerstone of holistic well-being on campus.
  2. Provide Comprehensive Peer Support Training: While all students involved in peer support programs should feel adequately trained, there is a demand for additional resources. Training that focuses on systems navigation, cultural humility, and addressing specific mental health experiences—such as psychosis or self-harm—can empower student leaders to point fellow students towards critical support.
  3. Adopt a Trauma-Informed Approach: Ensuring that programs are trauma-informed is critical for supporting student mental health effectively. Peer leaders often express the need for tools to redirect students in crisis towards accessible and thoughtful support options that will help, not further harm, their peers.
  4. Invest in Peer Support Programs: Sustainable funding is essential for growing and maintaining impactful peer support initiatives. These programs not only enhance campus well-being but also expose students to potential careers in mental health, creating a ripple effect of positive change. Investments in educational resources and inter-campus collaboration efforts can further expand the reach and effectiveness of peer support programs.

Strategies for Success

Peer support programs thrive when they engage students in meaningful activities, such as mental health education games or mindfulness workshops. These events help students build skills to manage stress while fostering openness and reducing stigma.

Collaboration across campus is another critical factor in amplifying these programs’ impact. Partnering with other groups allows peer-led initiatives to influence broader policies and create a unified approach to student well-being.

For example, at UMass Lowell, Morgan’s Message inspired the Athletic Director to hire the university’s first-ever athletics-specific mental health counselor. This success story illustrates how peer programs can spark transformative change:

To ensure effectiveness, campuses should prioritize:

  • Elevating student leadership and lived experience
  • Offering ongoing training for peer leaders
  • Using a trauma-informed approach
  • Investing in long-term program sustainability

When combined with collaboration and campus-wide engagement, these strategies can create lasting change in supporting student mental health.

The Power of Peer-Led Support

Peer support programs not only reduce the stigma surrounding mental health but also build lasting support systems for students. Empowering students to lead these initiatives fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens campus communities.

Research highlights the unique value of peer-led programs, which often complement staff-led initiatives. While clinical counseling programs address more advanced and specific mental health needs, peer-led programs offer holistic opportunities for students to connect vulnerably with one another. Together, these approaches ensure students have access to a diverse menu of mental health resources to meet their needs.

Creating mentorship opportunities and safe spaces for connection, peer-led initiatives play a crucial role in ensuring no student feels isolated. These programs help students thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally—while reinforcing the importance of shared experiences and mutual support.

Key Takeaways

Peer support programs are essential for fostering a healthy, supportive environment on college campuses. Creating spaces where students can turn to their peers for help improves mental health outcomes and strengthens the sense of connection within the campus community.

Download Morgan’s Message’s education guide to access structured monthly meeting topics.

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Understanding the Okanagan Charter

Understanding the Okanagan Charter: A Framework for Prioritizing Campus Well-Being

Written by Leyna Weakley on . Posted in Industry Articles.

In recent years, colleges and universities worldwide have prioritized student well-being as an integral part of their mission. Furthermore, not only does investing in wellness programs support student health and satisfaction, but it also offers additional benefits. These extra benefits include improving graduation rates, strengthening institutional reputation, reducing recruitment costs, and boosting student retention.

However, establishing meaningful well-being initiatives that align with academic goals and institutional values can be a complex challenge. Enter the Okanagan Charter, a powerful guiding framework designed to help higher education institutions create, implement, and sustain holistic wellness programs.

Recently, we hosted a webinar with three college health leaders—Dr. Oliver Tacto of Maryville University, Emily Pagano of UConn, and Kelly Gorman of UAlbany— shared insights on best practices for promoting wellness on college campuses. Each of their institutions has committed to the Okanagan Charter, setting an example for how campuses can foster a culture of well-being.

What is the Okanagan Charter?

The Okanagan Charter was created in 2015 at the International Conference on Health Promoting Universities and Colleges in Kelowna, Canada. Its goal is to inspire colleges and universities to integrate health into every aspect of campus life. Unlike typical health initiatives, the Charter calls for a comprehensive approach, taking into account the physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being of students, faculty, and staff.

The Charter consists of two primary calls to action:

1. Embed Health into All Aspects of Campus Culture:
Colleges should make well-being a core part of campus life, not just through wellness services, but across all departments and activities.
2. Lead Health Promotion Locally and Globally:
Universities are encouraged to engage with local communities, health organizations, and global partners, creating a supportive ecosystem for all involved.

These calls help institutions, like our recent webinar speakers, build environments where students, staff, and faculty feel supported in every part of campus life.

Hear Dr. Oliver Tacto’s take on the Okanagan Charter in the clip below:

Why the Okanagan Charter Matters for Higher Education

In today’s competitive higher education landscape, where the mental health and overall well-being of students are essential, the Okanagan Charter offers universities a holistic framework to create an impactful, inclusive, and sustainable approach to wellness.

Here’s why the Okanagan Charter matters now more than ever:

  • Aligning with Institutional Values: With many students and their families prioritizing well-being when choosing schools, the Okanagan Charter helps colleges establish wellness programs that align with institutional values, strategic plans, and mission statements, strengthening their reputation and appeal.
  • Supporting Mental Health: As the demand for mental health services continues to rise, the Charter provides a pathway for campuses to develop comprehensive support systems that prioritize mental health without limiting their focus to clinical services.
  • Fostering a Supportive Campus Culture: The Charter’s emphasis on embedding health into all aspects of campus life encourages institutions to foster a supportive culture where students, faculty, and staff feel valued and empowered to take charge of their well-being.

P.S. – You can download a copy of the Okanagan Charter here.

Key Principles for Mobilizing Whole-Campus Health Initiatives in Higher Education

Furthermore, the Okanagan Charter lays out guiding principles to help campuses take action toward whole-system health. Following these principles allows institutions to create healthier, more inclusive campus environments.

Key principles that drive the Okanagan Charter’s approach to whole-campus health initiatives include:

  • Using settings and whole system approaches: Focus on holistic, system-wide methods to create healthy conditions in higher education and model health promotion for other settings.
  • Ensuring comprehensive and campus-wide approaches: Implement interconnected strategies for the whole campus.
  • Leveraging participatory approaches to engage the voice of students and others: Set ambitious goals and engage all stakeholders—students, staff, faculty, and leaders—in collaborative, participatory efforts to establish priorities and foster widespread commitment to action.
  • Developing trans-disciplinary collaborations and cross-sector partnerships: Foster collaborations across disciplines and sectors, both on campus and with local and global partners, to drive comprehensive health initiatives and promote health knowledge and action in wider communities.

Hear Emily’s thoughts on what it means to collaborate versus cooperate:

  • Promoting research, innovation and evidence-informed action: Ensure research and innovation provide evidence to shape health policies and practices, enhancing sustainability on campus and in society, while adapting actions based on new findings.
  • Building on strengths: Adopt an asset-based approach to recognize strengths, address challenges, celebrate successes, and share lessons to continuously improve campus health and well-being.
  • Valuing local and indigenous communities’ contexts and priorities: Promote health by engaging with and understanding the contexts and priorities of local and indigenous communities, while considering the perspectives of vulnerable and transitioning populations.
  • Acting on an existing universal responsibility: Uphold the “Right to Health” declared in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by ensuring health promotion actions reflect social justice, equity, dignity, diversity, and the interconnectedness of health with social, economic, and ecological factors.

Key Takeaways

The Okanagan Charter empowers campuses to prioritize holistic well-being by embedding health into all areas of campus life and fostering a supportive community. Incorporating these principles allows colleges and universities to create sustainable wellness initiatives that truly enhance the campus community as a whole.

Gain tips for enhancing wellness from three college health experts here.

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Student Well-being Programs

The ROI of Investing in Student Well-being Programs

Written by Medicat on . Posted in Industry Articles.

How Colleges Can Enhance Campus Value

In today’s competitive higher education landscape, colleges and universities face growing pressure to prove their value. One of the most effective ways to do this? Invest in student well-being programs.

By prioritizing wellness programs, institutions improve students’ well-being and positively impact retention, satisfaction, and graduation rates. How these types of programs enhance campus value goes beyond just student success—it strengthens the institution’s overall appeal and value to students and their families.

Why Student Health Matters More Than Ever

Freshman enrollment was down by 5% in 2023 compared to the previous year, but the impact varies across different types of colleges:

Public and Private Nonprofit Four-Year Institutions: Experiencing considerable drops, with freshman enrollment down by 8.5% and 6.5%, respectively.

Four-Year Institutions with High Pell Grant Recipients: Seeing the most severe declines, with enrollment plummeting over 10%.

Community Colleges: Facing a much smaller impact, with only a 0.4% decline in freshman enrollment.

Considering these trends, colleges must focus on improving attrition and retention rates. A supportive environment that addresses mental health challenges is essential for enhancing the overall college experience. A 2022 National College Health Assessment (NCHA) study found that depression hinders academic performance for 24.3% of college students, while anxiety affects 34%.

Clearly, student wellness programs aren’t just a “nice-to-have;” it’s a critical factor in academic success and institutional stability.

Addressing these health challenges allows colleges to show how well-being programs enhance campus value and positively impact students in many ways.

The Financial ROI of Wellness Programs

Investing in wellness programs can be financially beneficial for institutions. Here’s how:

Rising Recruitment Cost
Recruitment costs for colleges and universities are on the rise, placing additional financial pressure on institutions to attract and retain students. For four-year private institutions, the average cost to recruit a single student now stands at $2,795, while public institutions spend around $494 per student.
Improved Student Satisfaction
Health and wellness services are key considerations for students when selecting a college. Yet, only about a quarter of students express satisfaction with their wellness facilities, and another quarter see room for improvement. Investing in comprehensive wellness offerings can be a meaningful way for colleges to boost student satisfaction and support academic success.
Higher Graduation Rates
Furthermore, around half of students report that struggling with their physical health and wellness hinders their academic performance. This emphasizes the need for supportive resources that promote student health to help them succeed academically, and in turn, graduate. Additionally, higher graduation rates improve an institution’s reputation and rankings, which can attract even more students.

Essential Components of a Campus Wellness Program

To maximize the ROI of wellness programs, colleges need a well-rounded approach that meets diverse student needs. Here’s a breakdown of what a successful wellness program includes:

  • Mental Health Support: Quick access to high-quality mental health services can make a world of difference for struggling students.
  • Preventive Health Services: Regular check-ups, vaccination clinics, and health education promote overall health.
  • Wellness Workshops and Training: Stress management, resilience training, and sleep hygiene workshops empower students to take control of their well-being.
  • Digital Health Tools: Telehealth and wellness apps make it easy for students to access support, no matter where they are.

These components highlight how wellness programs enhance campus value by addressing critical aspects of student health, supporting both academic success and personal growth.

Measuring the ROI of Wellness Programs

To justify the investment in wellness programs, institutions should measure their impact on student success. Tracking these metrics can clearly demonstrate how wellness programs enhance campus value:

  • Retention and Graduation Rates: High retention and graduation rates reflect positively on the institution’s ability to support students.
  • Utilization Rates of Health Services: Tracking the usage of mental health and wellness services shows their value to the administration.
  • Student Satisfaction Scores: Surveys can reveal how students perceive wellness services, highlighting areas of improvement.

Evaluating these metrics allows colleges to see firsthand how wellness programs enhance campus value and contribute to long-term success.

Key Takeaways

Well-being programs inarguably enhance campus value. These programs create healthier students, boost retention, and foster loyalty. Colleges that prioritize wellness are not only helping students succeed but also reinforcing the worth of higher education.

Ultimately, how wellness programs enhance campus value is about more than just ROI. It’s about creating an environment where students can thrive, graduate, and look back on their college experience with pride. Making this commitment, colleges position themselves as leaders in the evolving landscape of higher education, and students reap the benefits.

Continued Reading: Mental Health Support Proven to Improve Student Retention

Interested in learning more about how your campus health solutions can become more integrated and impactful?  Connect with a member of our team.

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Wellness on Campus

Rethinking “Wellness”

Written by Medicat on . Posted in Industry Articles.

Rethinking “Wellness”:

How to Drive Collective Impact, Collaborate Better, and Leverage Data to Transform Your Campus

Webinar Q&A recap with college well-being experts Dr. Oliver Tacto from Maryville University, Emily Pagano from UConn, and Kelly Gorman from UAlbany to share their expertise on enhancing student well-being.

During the webinar, we covered the following key topics:

  • What does it mean to truly collaborate? And what are the biggest roadblocks getting in the way of meaningful progress?
  • What steps can you take to effectively implement your most ambitious well-being ideas and initiatives?
  • What is the Okanagan Charter and why should you know about it?
  • What tools and infrastructure need to be in place before you start to enact change?
  • How can campus leaders develop Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to better measure campus well-being?

Q1: Wellness and well-being are terms we hear often. Are they the same thing, or is there a difference?

Oliver: Wellness involves actions and habits that support physical, mental, and emotional health. It’s the journey. Well-being is the outcome—a balanced, fulfilled state that results from those wellness practices.

Kelly: I think of wellness as more of an individual construct, while well-being is broader, encompassing personal, communal, and societal levels.

Emily: It’s less about whether this is the “right” definition and more about how we use this term and what it means for us and the community that’s coming together to do this work. This understanding connects to our goals and what we’re trying to measure.

Q2: What are “inputs” in college well-being and what are some examples of inputs that can lead to improved well-being on campus?

Oliver: When we talk about inputs, we’re really talking about what people and resources we’re putting in when we say we’re “investing” in well-being. Inputs can vary widely depending on a campus’s unique environment. Here are a few examples:

  • Counseling and Support Staff: Access to mental health counselors and support staff is fundamental.
  • Health Services: Offering accessible health care and support for students’ physical wellness is a vital input.
  • Financial Resources: Some institutions have larger budgets to support well-being initiatives, which can make a significant difference.
  • Campus Environment: This includes everything from the built environment (like dorms, classrooms, and administrative buildings) to resources that allow for outdoor activities and engagement. Some campuses offer more natural spaces, which can positively impact student wellness.

Essentially, assessing and utilizing these inputs allows campuses to build a stronger foundation for student, faculty, community, and staff well-being.

Emily: Creating alignment across those inputs is a huge part of engaging in health promotion. Often, we have amazing assets on campus, but they’re not aligned, aware of one another, or working towards the same goals. 

Q3: What’s an overlooked asset when it comes to college wellness promotion?

Emily: Our University Planning colleagues have been invaluable allies, as they are deeply considering how the campus environment supports the experiences of students, staff, and faculty. Additionally, our partners in Sustainability, including those in facilities like wastewater management, play a critical role in this work.

Kelly: Two often-overlooked assets are relationships and student leadership. Successful environments combine top-down and bottom-up support, building connections across titles. Additionally, student leadership, including the Student Activities Office and Student Leadership Development, is essential.

Q4: What does the collaboration process look like? And how do you know when you’re collaborating versus cooperating?

Oliver: I view cooperation and collaboration as a choice between planning an event versus a shared vision. We must align our goals toward a common agenda and communicate consistently with stakeholders about this shared goal, ensuring resources are equitable. When collaboration fails, it can feel one-sided, focusing on individual departments instead of highlighting the entire university’s progress toward well-being.

Kelly: Collaboration involves drawing out the wisdom of others in the space. I ask questions to understand the motivations behind our work, the overarching goals, and the mission. For me, it means aligning on shared values, strategic priorities, and vision while committing to express those values healthily throughout our process.

P.S. 60% of our live webinar audience said they can cooperate but struggle to collaborate successfully with their colleagues.

Wellness Poll Results

Q5: What are some strategies for transitioning from cooperation to genuine collaboration?

Emily: I think the biggest barrier often lies in the structural designs within higher education institutions themselves, which are not always conducive to collaboration. For instance, a small but significant challenge we faced was faculty and staff using two separate communication systems (Google for faculty and Office 365 for staff). Even setting up meetings became difficult! So, my advice would be to assess your current structures, identify who’s already invested in these wellness goals, and then start building a strong base. Over time, establishing ongoing communication and even starting small projects together can lay the groundwork for a more extensive partnership.

Q6: What is the Okanagan Charter and why is it valuable for campus leaders to be aware of it?

Oliver: The Okanagan Charter is a foundational document established at an international conference for health-promoting professionals and universities. It provides a global framework for embedding health into all aspects of campus life—from operations and programming to culture and community.

The Charter promotes a holistic approach, ensuring campus-wide well-being through integrated initiatives. Rather than a checklist, it represents a commitment to cultivating a culture of health, signaling an institution’s readiness to make meaningful cultural and structural changes in support of health promotion.

Emily: The Charter’s emphasis on the interdependence of people, place, and planet has been instrumental in bringing together diverse partners from facilities, sustainability, campus planning, and research. We use it as a platform to discuss how our shared spaces and policies can promote health beyond individual departments.

The Charter gives us a language and framework to address well-being holistically, making it easier to collaborate on solutions that impact everyone.

Q7: How can university leaders set effective KPIs to measure campus wellness?

Kelly: At UAlbany, we’ve adopted the Okanagan Charter as our guiding framework, focusing on a systems approach to integrate well-being into all campus operations. Setting effective KPIs starts with agreement on a shared vision of well-being. We’re using realist evaluation to link KPIs to broader social processes, which helps measure complex outcomes beyond immediate results.

Emily: At UConn, we also adopted the Okanagan Charter and recently aligned our wellness KPIs with our new strategic plan. We emphasize relationship-building across departments to ensure equitable access to wellness initiatives. Our core KPIs focus on belonging, which resonates across wellness conversations, and sustainability metrics, as our university moves toward carbon neutrality.

Oliver: At Maryville, we’re developing KPIs using the eight dimensions of wellness framework. This approach helps us measure wellness comprehensively, covering areas like mental health access, active lifestyles, and student belonging. To engage students, we’ve implemented the “MaryWELL” initiative, which tracks their participation across wellness dimensions, from academic support to financial literacy. The framework guides measuring our progress across diverse aspects of campus wellness.

Key Takeaways

In this Q&A, we’ve highlighted key insights from our recent discussion on how campuses can go beyond the “wellness” buzzword to create lasting, measurable impacts on student well-being. We hope you found these expert insights valuable.

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EHR Solutions for Athletic Departments

Bridging the Gap Between Athletic and Wellness Departments on College Campuses

Written by Medicat on . Posted in Industry Articles.

In the high-pressure world of college athletics, student-athletes juggle rigorous training schedules, academic responsibilities, and the everyday demands of college life. Ensuring these athletes remain in peak physical condition while maintaining their overall health is no small feat.

This challenge is especially prominent when athletic departments and campus health and counseling centers operate separately. That’s unless…You’re utilizing an integrated Electronic Health Record (EHR) system!

EHR solutions offer a seamless, efficient way to coordinate care between departments and ensure that student-athletes receive comprehensive support both on and off the field.

In this blog we’ll cover:
  • The challenges of miscommunication between athletic departments, health centers, and counseling clinics
  • How an EHR can bridge the gap to deliver a better student experience and more coordinated care
  • The critical role of an EHR in supporting both the physical and mental health of student-athletes

The Disconnect Between Athletics and Campus Wellness

Athletic trainers manage student-athlete injuries and performance optimization on many campuses, while campus health centers handle general medical care and counseling handles mental health support.

With these three services operating independently, this makes it difficult to share critical health information that can impact an athlete’s overall well-being. This disconnect can result in delayed or incomplete care and missed opportunities for holistic health management.

The Role of an Integrated EHR in Coordinating Care for Student-Athletes

An integrated EHR platform addresses these challenges by creating a single, unified system that offers multiple benefits, including permission structures to maintain student privacy:

1. Improved Communication Sharing

A comprehensive EHR system allows both athletic trainers and wellness services staff to access shared student records, ensuring everyone involved in a student-athlete’s care is on the same page—but with safeguards in place.

Permission structures within the EHR ensure that only certain types of information or notes are visible to specific staff. For instance, a trainer may access medical history relevant to injuries but won’t see sensitive mental health notes unless permitted. This balance ensures privacy while improving overall care coordination.

Effective coordination among trainers, health services, and counseling services is essential for comprehensive student-athlete care. Here’s how it can look in practice:

  • Trainers can view a student’s medical history before deciding on treatment for an injury.
  • Health services can stay updated on any injuries or physical conditions when providing care.
  • Counseling services can access relevant health information to better support a student’s overall well-being during treatment.

2. Seamless Coordination of Care

When athletic trainers and health services can collaborate through a shared EHR, they can coordinate care more effectively. For example, if an athlete is recovering from a concussion, trainers and wellness professionals can work together to develop a tailored recovery plan. 

This accounts for physical, mental, and academic considerations. With all the information in one place, treatment plans can be updated in real-time, ensuring continuity of care.

4. Enhanced Tracking and Monitoring

An EHR system provides real-time access to data, making it easier to track athletes’ progress, monitor injuries, and manage recovery timelines.

Moreover, health professionals and trainers can quickly identify trends and adjust treatment plans as needed. This tracking is particularly beneficial for preventing recurring injuries or monitoring conditions like stress fractures or overuse injuries.

Hey! If you’re reading this blog, you might also be interested in our other blog, College Athletics and Mental Health. Check it out here.

5. Informed Decision-Making

Whether it’s a decision to return to play after an injury or addressing chronic issues like asthma or anxiety, integrated EHRs empower both athletic trainers and health services to make informed, data-driven decisions.

Furthermore, all clinics having access to comprehensive medical data ensure that student-athletes are not rushed back into play before they are fully ready, reducing the risk of re-injury.

Why Integration Matters for Mental Health

The physical demands of collegiate sports can take a toll on mental health. Anxiety, depression, and stress are common among student-athletes who balance competitive pressures, academic obligations, and personal lives. An integrated EHR streamlines communication and collaboration, improving overall care for student-athletes.

Sharing information on mental health services and treatment plans allows athletic trainers to recognize when an athlete might need extra support. This enables health and counseling services to intervene earlier if mental health issues are affecting athletic performance.

Key Takeaways

Coordinating care between athletic trainers and campus health and counseling centers is critical to ensuring that student-athletes receive comprehensive, holistic care. By implementing an integrated EHR solution, colleges and universities can break down silos, improve communication, and provide better care for their athletes.

And when these departments can seamlessly communicate, student-athletes can perform at their best—both on the field and off.

Want to learn more about how you can bridge the gap between different departments on your campus? Contact us today to see what your options are in helping your campus improve student-athlete care.

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Simplify Immunization Compliance

Medicat Makes Immunization Compliance Easier at Leading Universities

Written by Medicat on . Posted in News & Press.

Medicat makes Immunization Compliance easier

Medicat, the #1 provider of Electronic Health Records (EHR) software for colleges and universities, has expanded its immunization compliance management offerings, allowing schools to reduce inefficiency and keep their campus communities safer.

This progress is highlighted through two compelling case studies that explain the impact of these tools at the Georgia Institute of Technology and the University of Florida.

Continue reading to explore how Medicat’s solutions had a major impact on the health and well-being of these two large, public institutions.

Georgia Tech: Automating Immunization Compliance

Georgia Tech faced the daunting task of verifying thousands of immunization records each summer, leading to process bottlenecks and stressed-out staff members. By partnering with Medicat, the university implemented a brand new solution called VeriVax and an integration with Georgia’s State Immunization Registry (GRITS) to automate tedious tasks, increase compliance accuracy, and improve the student experience.

As highlighted in the full case study, Georgia Tech cut the number of immunization records that needed to be manually processed by a whopping 26%, resulting in faster verifications and fewer headaches for both incoming students and health center staff.

University of Florida: Optimizing Student Compliance

The University of Florida needed a solution that could scale to accommodate its growing student body while ensuring campus-wide compliance. Medicat’s flexible platform allowed the university to streamline immunization records and insurance waiver collection and verification, ensuring students met all requirements before stepping foot on campus.

After implementing Medicat, the University of Florida saw immunization record processing time drop from 3 weeks to just 1 week! Getting this considerable amount of time back has expanded their team’s ability to focus on other impactful health and well-being initiatives, rather than being caught in the weeds of compliance management.

Experience Medicat’s Immunization Compliance Solutions for Yourself

Medicat is committed to helping colleges and universities achieve operational excellence. Their immunization compliance solutions empower universities to automate clinical workflows, reduce manual processes, and increase compliance rates—delivering better outcomes for both students and staff.

For those interested in taking a closer look, take an interactive platform tour to see the tools in action.

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College Health Services

The Role of College Health Services in Managing Complex Health Conditions

Written by Medicat on . Posted in Industry Articles.

In 2019, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that “more than one-half (53.8%) of adults aged 18–34 years reported having at least one chronic condition, and nearly one-quarter (22.3%) reported having more than one chronic condition.”

Given these significant numbers, college health centers play a critical role in managing complex health conditions among students, such as diabetes and epilepsy. College health centers need to adopt multifaceted strategies to effectively support students’ health and well-being.

In this blog, we’ll delve into the challenges students with complex health conditions encounter and offer practical strategies to help your campus provide them with the best possible college experience.

1. Addressing Challenges Faced by Students with Complex Health Conditions

Students with complex health conditions often struggle with balancing their health needs and academic demands. Frequent monitoring, medication management, and emergency preparedness are key aspects that require robust support systems within college health services.

2. How College Health Centers Can Help

  • Personalized Care Plans: Proactively develop individualized care plans that cater to the specific needs of each student, including regular check-ups and tailored treatment plans. Creating these plans when students identify their health needs is key. Your health center may also consider offering to coordinate with specialists and external resources to ensure comprehensive care.
  • Accessible Resources: Ensure students easily access necessary medical supplies and medications. For those who become newly diagnosed while enrolled as a student, taking the time to provide educational resources can help them manage their conditions effectively. Additionally, clear communication channels should be established for students to reach healthcare providers and support staff for timely assistance and guidance. More information on improving health communication in higher education can be found here.
  • Emergency Protocols: Establish clear emergency protocols and train staff to respond promptly to health crises. Additionally, conduct regular emergency drills and ensure all staff are familiar with students’ specific health needs and emergency response procedures.

3. Creating a Supportive Environment

  • Awareness and Education: Conduct awareness campaigns and educational workshops to inform the campus community about various health conditions and how to support affected individuals. For example, host several events for Arthritis Awareness Month with activities such as informational booths, guest speakers, and practical workshops on managing arthritis pain and joint health.
  • Peer Support Groups: Facilitate peer support groups where students can share experiences and coping strategies. This can be accomplished by establishing a weekly support group for students with chronic health conditions to discuss challenges, exchange advice, and offer mutual encouragement in managing their health.
  • Counseling Center Integration: Ensure that your campus offers counseling services specifically for students with chronic conditions. Proper staff training to treat students with these health issues is crucial to ensure a supportive and understanding environment that fosters their academic and personal growth.

4. Utilizing Technology

  • Electronic Health Records (EHRs): Leverage a comprehensive EHR system to streamline health information management, ensuring accurate and timely access to students’ medical histories, and enhancing coordination between healthcare providers and school staff, facilitating better-informed care decisions.
  • Telehealth Services: Furthermore, you may want to consider implementing telehealth options to provide convenient and flexible care, reducing the need for in-person visits and accommodating students’ busy schedules. This makes health services much more accessible for students with health issues that may prevent them from coming in for an in-person visit. This can also help with reducing the number of no-shows.
  • Health Monitoring Apps: Encourage the use of health monitoring apps that help students track their conditions and communicate with healthcare providers in real-time. This can support proactive health management and empower students to take charge of their well-being as they grow into adulthood.

Discover how Georgia Southern University was able to reduce the number of no-shows at their clinic here.

5. Collaborating with External Resources

  • Specialist Referrals: Establish partnerships with local healthcare providers and specialists to offer comprehensive care beyond what the college health center can provide. For instance, collaborate with nearby cardiologists for students managing hypertension or pulmonologists specializing in asthma to ensure students receive the specialized care they need.
  • Community Resources: Connect students with community resources and support networks to ensure they receive holistic care. This may include collaboration with local diabetes organizations to provide students with access to specialized medical care, nutritional counseling, and peer mentoring programs.
  • Training and Development: Engage in ongoing training and development for health center staff to stay updated on best practices and advancements in managing complex health conditions.

6. Key Takeaways

College health centers are crucial for enhancing college students’ experience. They offer care and resources that empower students to manage their health and excel academically, supporting everything from minor issues like colds and flu to complex conditions such as arthritis and kidney disease. By leveraging technology and collaborating with specialists, these centers ensure students receive holistic care, contributing to a successful college journey.

See how Medicat’s EHR can help improve your clinic’s workflow with a self-guided tour.

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Non-Traditional College Students

8 Tips to Empower Non-Traditional College Students

Written by Medicat on . Posted in Industry Articles.

When people think of college, they often picture students in the traditional 18-22 age range. However, a significant and growing portion of the student population is comprised of non-traditional students. Non-traditional students can include those returning from military service, part-time students, parents, or those simply seeking a degree later in life. These students bring diverse experiences and face unique challenges that require tailored support to ensure their success and well-being.

In this blog, we explore eight tips designed to enhance the experience of non-traditional students on your campus and ultimately, improve retention.

1. Promote Regular Health Screenings

Encourage regular health screenings for non-traditional students. Given their often busy schedules outside of school, providing these services on campus offers significant convenience and ensures they have easy access to essential health care.

These screenings can help detect potential health issues early, allowing for timely intervention. If your campus doesn’t offer them, partner with local healthcare providers to offer on-campus screening events for blood pressure, cholesterol, vision, and hearing, etc.

2. Create a Supportive Environment

Ensure that the campus environment is accessible and inclusive for all students. This can include:

  • Installing ramps and elevators for easy mobility
  • Offering plenty of seating areas throughout campus
  • Ensuring accessible restrooms and gender-neutral bathrooms
  • Offering assistive listening devices and captioning services in lecture halls and event spaces
  • Creating family-friendly spaces and childcare facilities for students with dependents
  • Offering flexible class schedules and online learning options for part-time students
  • Providing military-specific support services and spaces, such as lounges or resource centers

Learn more about creating an inclusive college campus here.

3. Encourage Physical Activity

Physical activity is vital for maintaining health at any age or stage of life. To accommodate the diverse needs of non-traditional college students, consider organizing a variety of inclusive and accessible exercise options such as:

  • Low-impact exercise classes, like yoga, tai chi, & walking groups
  • Schedule classes at various times to accommodate students with other obligations such as full-time jobs or dependents
  • Ensure fitness facilities are accessible and offer adaptive equipment for students with disabilities
  • Create a welcoming gym environment with clear signage, approachable staff, and supportive policies for students who may feel intimidated or out of place
  • Offer virtual fitness classes and resources for students who may prefer or need to exercise at home

By implementing these strategies, you can foster a welcoming and supportive fitness environment that encourages all non-traditional students to stay active.

4. Foster Mental Health and Well-Being

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Ensure that your campus offers  counseling services tailored to the needs of ALL students. For instance, create support groups for parents enrolled at your school where students can share their experiences and connect with peers. Additionally, provides resources for stress management and mindfulness practices.

Need help connecting students to resources available on your campus? Download our guide: 22 Innovative Ways to Promote Campus Resources.

5. Nutritional Support and Education

Nutrition plays a key role in a healthy life for all college students. Offering educational workshops on balanced diets and nutritional needs tailored to student’s diverse needs can be highly valuable.

For example, host a “Healthy Cooking on a Budget” workshop for students with families or a “Quick and Nutritious Meals” session for part-time students with busy schedules. By addressing the unique nutritional requirements of these students, you can support their overall well-being and academic success.

6. Professional Development and Lifelong Learning

Encourage all non-traditional students to engage in lifelong learning and professional development. Offer workshops, seminars, and courses that cater to their diverse interests and career goals (and ensure evening or weekend sessions are available to accommodate working students and those with family responsibilities).

Colleges can also create opportunities for mentorship programs where experienced students, such as veterans or older adults, can share their knowledge and experience with younger peers. Additionally, virtual career fairs and networking events can connect non-traditional students with potential employers and widen their professional networks.

7. Promote Social Connections

Evidence shows that social isolation and loneliness can significantly harm health, increasing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, anxiety depression, and more. Social connections are vital for emotional well-being.

To support this, colleges can host social events and activities, encouraging interaction among all non-traditional students. This can be achieved by creating family-friendly events like campus picnics or movie nights to accommodate students with children.

Additionally, support groups or social clubs specifically for veterans or working students can be invaluable in fostering a sense of community and providing peer support. Events like book clubs, cultural outings, and volunteer opportunities can help build a supportive network and foster a sense of belonging among non-traditional students.

8. Utilize Technology for Health Monitoring

Technology can elevate the support and well-being of all non-traditional college students. Colleges can provide regular informational and training sessions to help students become comfortable using health technologies, catering to different technological literacy, schedules, and availability.

Make sure health tech tools are accessible for all students, offering adaptive features and support as needed. Additionally, promotes virtual health consultations and telehealth options for students who may have limited access to on-campus health services.

Key Takeaways

Supporting the health and well-being of non-traditional students can enrich your campus community. By implementing these tips and utilizing available resources, we can help to create an inclusive, supportive environment that promotes a positive college experience for all.

Discover effective strategies for linking students to essential resources by checking out a recording of one of our recent webinars, Connecting Students to Key Resources: What, Where, and How.

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Inclusive Health and Counseling Centers

Creating Inclusive Health and Counseling Centers

Written by Medicat on . Posted in Industry Articles.

Your Guide to Best Practices

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of creating inclusive health and counseling centers for LGBTQIA+ students. Ensuring that all students, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feel safe and supported is crucial for their well-being and academic success.

Let’s walk through some best practices that will make your health and counseling centers more inclusive for LGBTQIA+ students. Plus, continue reading to learn what top schools like Rutgers, Tufts, and Ohio State are doing to support their campus communities.

1. Staff Training and Education

Provide ongoing training for healthcare providers and counseling staff on LGBTQIA+ health concerns and challenges. This includes understanding the specific mental health needs of LGBTQIA+ students, as well as using inclusive language and respecting students’ preferred names and pronouns. Staff should be well-versed in cultural competency to create an environment where LGBTQIA+ students feel seen and respected.

2. Inclusive Policies and Practices

Work with campus leadership to develop and implement policies that explicitly prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Ensure that these policies are clearly communicated to both staff and students. Incorporate inclusive practices such as providing gender-neutral bathrooms within your clinics and offering a range of options on intake forms to capture a student’s gender identity and preferred name. Make sure this information is prominently displayed in your EHR and scheduling systems so that staff can refer to a student the right way, the first time.

3. Visible Support and Resources

Display LGBTQIA+ affirming materials, such as posters, brochures, and pride flags in health and counseling centers. This visible support can help create a welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, provide resources and referrals to LGBTQIA+-friendly healthcare providers, therapists, and support groups both on-campus and in your local community.

Note: Unique strategies for promoting resources to students can be found here.

4. Confidentiality and Privacy

Ensure that confidentiality and privacy are prioritized, as many students may be concerned about being outed or facing discrimination. Reassure students that their information will be kept private and that their healthcare needs will be handled with sensitivity and respect.

5. Student Feedback and Involvement

Engage LGBTQIA+ students in the development and evaluation of health and counseling services. Solicit feedback through surveys, focus groups, and advisory committees to ensure that services are meeting their needs and to identify areas for improvement.

6. Comprehensive Coverage

Advocate for student health insurance plans to include comprehensive coverage for LGBTQIA+ healthcare needs. This should encompass routine care, mental health services, and specific needs such as hormone replacement therapy, gender-affirming surgeries, and other gender-affirming treatments. Ensuring that insurance plans do not exclude this type of care is critical for the health and well-being of LGBTQIA+ students.

7. Policy Guidelines

Refer to established guidelines and best practices, such as those provided by the American College Health Association (ACHA). ACHA provides a Trans-Inclusive College Health Programs guide for creating inclusive healthcare environments, for example. This guide provides recommendations on medical records, health informatics, mental health services, and continuing education and training.

8. Equitable Access

Promote equitable access to well-being services to ensure that all students can achieve their full academic potential. Addressing chronic or acute physical and mental health needs promptly can meaningfully contribute to their success on campus.

Real-World Examples and Best Practices

Drawing inspiration from successful initiatives in higher education, we can create more inclusive health and counseling centers.

Here are some examples of how schools across the country are prioritizing LGBTQIA+ health and wellness:

  • Rutgers University offers comprehensive care for transgender and gender non-binary students through the Rutgers Center for Transgender Health. This center provides medical counseling, hormone therapy, hormone-level monitoring, and assistance with referrals to external providers such as surgeons and endocrinologists. Additionally, they help students with signing official name-change documents.

    Health services include continuous hormone therapy, laboratory testing, genital and chest reconstruction surgery, psychotherapy, and surgery to change secondary sex characteristics. Rutgers Student Health ensures gender-affirming care for all registered students, regardless of their insurance coverage, including those on the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP).

    Counseling services include individual and group counseling, crisis management, substance abuse assessment and treatment, and psychiatric services. The center is dedicated to improving transgender and non-binary health through evidence-based care, research, and education, aiming to create a welcoming and supportive environment throughout the gender affirmation process.

  • Tufts University offers comprehensive, inclusive health services for LGBTQIA+ students, including specialized trans health care, hormone treatment, and gender-affirming surgery information. Students can self-identify their name, gender identity, and pronouns in records.

    Gender-affirming hormone Treatment (GAHT) and surgeries follow World Professional Association of Transgender Health (WPATH) guidelines, with support for medication and ongoing care. Insurance and billing assistance is available, and mental health support is provided throughout the process. The university also offers additional resources for ongoing support and name changes.

  • Ohio State University offers extensive mental health support for LGBTQIA+ students through one-on-one counseling, drop-in consultations, and specialized workshops and support groups. Several therapists specialize in LGBTQ+ concerns. CCS supports groups for queer undergraduate and graduate students, plus transgender/non-binary students.

    The Gender Affirming Primary Care Clinic offers transition-related care, primary care, STI testing, HIV PrEP, vaccinations, hormone therapy, and referrals for gender-affirming surgery. The clinic emphasizes teaching future medical professionals to provide affirming care to the transgender community.

Key Takeaways

Creating inclusive health and counseling centers for LGBTQIA+ students is not just about meeting regulatory requirements; it is about fostering an environment where all students can thrive.

By implementing practical steps such as staff training, inclusive clinic policies, and comprehensive healthcare coverage, institutions can ensure that LGBTQIA+ students feel supported and valued. This, in turn, contributes to their academic success and overall well-being.

As we move forward, continuous engagement with the LGBTQIA+ community will be essential in refining these practices and addressing emerging needs.

Continued Reading: Learn more about how and why campuses are focusing on LGBTQIA+ mental health, in particular.

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Healthy Sleep

The Impact of Sleep on Academic Performance

Written by Medicat on . Posted in Industry Articles.

Encouraging Healthy Sleep Habits

healthy sleep is important

Sleep is often the first thing students sacrifice when faced with the demands of college life. According to the University of Georgia, college students are only getting an average of 6-6.9 hours of sleep per night. However, the CDC recommends getting at least 7 hours of sleep each night.

From late-night study sessions to early morning classes, sleep deprivation has become a common issue among students. In this blog, we’ll explore sleep’s critical role in learning and memory, the negative effects of sleep deprivation, and how colleges can promote better sleep hygiene among students.

The Importance of Sleep for Students

Enhances Learning and Memory

Sleep is essential for consolidating memories and processing information. During sleep, the brain reorganizes and integrates new information, which is crucial for learning. Studies have shown that students who get adequate sleep perform better on tests and have better recall of information compared to those who are sleep-deprived.

Boosts Cognitive Function

Adequate sleep enhances cognitive functions such as attention, problem-solving, and decision-making. These skills are vital for academic success, as they enable students to grasp complex concepts, engage in critical thinking, and make informed decisions.

Improves Mood and Mental Health

Sleep has a profound impact on mood and mental health. Students who get enough sleep are less likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety, which can hinder academic performance. Good sleep hygiene promotes emotional stability, resilience, and overall well-being.

The Consequences of Sleep Deprivation

Increased Risk of Health Issues

Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to a range of health problems, including weakened immune function, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. For students, this means more sick days and less energy to participate in academic and extracurricular activities.

Decreased Safety

Sleep-deprived students are at a higher risk of accidents and injuries, both on and off campus. For example, drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. Ensuring students get enough sleep can help keep them safe.

Promoting Better Sleep Hygiene on Campus

Educating Students About Sleep

Colleges can play a significant role in promoting healthy sleep habits by educating students about the importance of sleep. Workshops, seminars, and informational campaigns can help raise awareness about the benefits of good sleep hygiene and provide practical tips for improving sleep quality.

Gain unique tips for promoting campus resources here.

Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment

The campus environment can significantly impact students’ sleep patterns. Colleges can take steps to create a sleep-friendly environment by:

  • Implementing Quiet Hours: Establishing (and consistently enforcing) quiet hours in dormitories can help minimize noise and create a conducive environment for sleep.
  • Improving Dorm Room Comfort: Providing comfortable mattresses, blackout curtains, and temperature control can enhance sleep quality.
  • Encouraging Regular Sleep Schedules: Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends, can help students regulate their sleep patterns.

Offering Resources and Support

Providing resources and support for students struggling with sleep issues is essential. This can include:

  • Access to Sleep Clinics or Counseling Services: Offering on-campus sleep clinics or counseling services can help students address sleep disorders or other underlying issues affecting their sleep.
  • Stress Management Programs: Programs that teach stress management techniques, such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises, can help students manage stress and improve their sleep quality.

Encouraging Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Promoting overall health and wellness can also contribute to better sleep hygiene. Colleges can encourage students to adopt healthy lifestyle choices by:

  • Promoting Physical Activity: Regular exercise can help regulate sleep patterns and improve sleep quality.
  • Providing Nutritious Food Options: A balanced diet supports overall health and promotes better sleep.
  • Limiting Caffeine and Alcohol: Educating students about the impact of caffeine and alcohol on sleep can encourage healthier consumption habits.

Key Takeaways

The impact of sleep on academic performance is undeniable. By promoting healthy sleep habits, colleges can help students achieve their full academic potential and enhance their overall well-being. Colleges can play a crucial role in fostering good sleep hygiene among students through education, creating a sleep-friendly environment, offering resources and support, and encouraging healthy lifestyle choices.

Help your students thrive during their college years. Learn how physical activity can improve student well-being.

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