At the Crossroads: Options for Financing College Health Services in the 21st Century

Abstract

At a time when increasing numbers of uninsured and underinsured students are attending college, many college health programs face formidable challenges in their efforts to sustain services. As financial pressures increase, college health programs must revisit their funding options, including (1) maintaining the current level and source of funding but requiring additional out-of-pocket fees for certain services from students, (2) establishing their own insurance plans, (3) qualifying as a preferred provider organization, or (4) some combination of the above. Whatever strategies are selected and pursued, college health programs must continue to try to provide quality services at a reasonable cost while maintaining an emphasis on prevention, health education, and the provision of services most needed by the college population, including mental health and substance abuse services.

Key Words:

• college health
• financing
• financing