Student health clinic opening this fall

(Updated July 14, 2020)

Augustana College will open a new student health clinic on campus on the first day of fall semester, prompted in part by a call by students.

The clinic will open Aug. 31 and will be called Augustana Convenient Care Powered by Genesis. It will be located in Baldur House just behind the Gerber Center, next to Casa Latina.

The clinic will be staffed from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday.

Services will include treatment of sprains, strains, fevers, cold and flu, pneumonia, minor fractures, lacerations and other acute problems. Strep testing and seasonal flu vaccinations will be offered.

Costs for medication and additional tests would be handled through the student’s insurance.

Dr. Wes Brooks, dean of students and vice president of student life, credits students in a public health course for pushing forward the idea to add a clinic on campus to host the student services focused on wellness and well-being.

The desire to have an on-campus health clinic was supported by the Student Government Association, which confirmed support from the larger student body.

"Students saw the need for a more convenient health care option,” said Dr. Brooks.

Kirk Anderson, Augustana chief financial officer, is overseeing the investment towards the project. The college’s current investment covers staffing and a renovation to the space. College administrators are committed to paying for the first year of services through the college budget and are considering future funding options.

The college anticipates the need for COVID-19 testing options, as well.

“Coverage was determined prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, so we will be investigating testing options,” said Anderson.  

Augustana recently has made investments in mental health services, disability services and wellness programs. Academic programming around health and human performance also will expand with the addition of the Peter J. Lindberg, M.D., Center.