A Year in Review: The Student Health Clinic

The Student Health Clinic provided care for over 2,000 Midwestern University students on the Glendale Campus since it first opened its doors last July. Designed specifically for students, the Student Health Clinic sees patients for annual wellness physicals, medical screening compliance, primary care for chronic conditions and mental health, and free acute visits. 

Solving a Student Need

Kamrie Wolf, D.M.Sc., PA-C, an alumna of Midwestern University, observed the need for a designated Student Health Clinic when she returned to campus as the Manager of Occupational Safety & Health. She noticed especially that her schedule and those of the other Advanced Practice Providers (APP) were booked in order to accommodate the students' busy academic schedules. 

Dr. Wolf recalled, “I found myself opening my schedule at random hours during the week so students could be seen for a medication refill or a sick visit. The Multispecialty Clinic provides excellent care, but Student Health was designed to offer more timely access for students with acute illnesses, medication refills, and other concerns that often arise around class schedules. 

“That’s why we implemented the Student Health Clinic,” she continued. “We’re very cognizant of our hours and their availability. It’s open Monday through Friday with student-friendly hours, like during their lunch hour and before class. And they don’t have to worry about seeing a faculty member.”

Another benefit for students is the free visits for acute illnesses. The free acute visits have been “a real game changer,” Dr. Wolf explained. “Acute visits are covered by the student coverage fee included in tuition. Having Student Health services available at no cost has made it much easier for students to seek care early. Instead of delaying treatment because of cost or convenience, they can be seen quickly and get back to focusing on school and stay healthy.”

In addition to acute visits, the Student Health Clinic helps students manage their medications and maintain compliance with required medical screenings to participate in clinic rotations; this includes providing titers, TB tests, and vaccinations. Last fall, the Student Health Clinic saw over 300 students during their flu vaccine initiative.

“Our main goal is to support students in their journey at Midwestern. Having full schedules every day of just seeing students has been so rewarding,” Dr. Wolf commented.

Caring for Future Healthcare Providers

While Midwestern students are learning to provide the best care for their future patients, it can be difficult for them to extend that same care toward themselves. 

Dr. Wolf noted this irony and even experienced it herself as a student. “The students here have a high standard,” she said. “They worked so hard to get here; they took entrance exams and interviewed, and now they are working hard to maintain their best grades. It’s a lot to add on the pressure of staying perfectly fit, working out, and meal prepping.”

Like all good habits, the answer lies in small, consistent efforts. 

“I tell students to pursue whatever sparks their health and happiness, both physically and mentally,” Dr. Wolf advised. "Make sure you’re still taking time for yourself, whether that’s working out, spending time with loved ones, or getting a milkshake at midnight with your study group. Be gentle and kind to yourself – you don’t have to be perfect all the time.” 

The Future of the Student Health Clinic

After a successful first year, Dr. Wolf says her goal is to keep up the momentum and see more students. “If I could tell all Midwestern students one thing, it’s that we’re their biggest supporters! We want to help them succeed both in their classes and in their personal well-being.”

The Student Health Clinic hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 7am – 3pm; Tuesday and Thursday 9am – 5pm. To schedule an appointment, call 623-537-6000 and select option 3.