As colder months draw closer, UNC students add one more concern to their lists: how to deal with becoming sick during busier times, especially in high-capacity settings.
To address both chronic and acute illness, Campus Health offers in-person and online appointments for those seeking care. UNC students can visit Campus Health's website to register for primary care, nutrition, gynecology or immunization appointments, or request other forms of care through the Healthy Heels Portal or by phone.
But, for students to get the most out of their appointments, there are some important details Campus Health providers can offer.
Dr. Ruth Lotz, a Campus Health primary care provider, said it is important to know that when students sign up for an appointment, it is typically a 20-minute appointment — though the time can be extended for allotted care.
While those 20 minutes are ideally spent with a provider, appointments also involve checking medical insurance, as well as blood pressure, temperature, weight and other vital signs, she said.
“I think if (students) understand that it is worth coming a few minutes early to get the initial process out of the way so that they have more time to actually spend with the provider, I think it is quite helpful,” said Lotz.
Dr. Kyle Tamminga, a Campus Health primary care provider and president of medical staff, said arriving early is a way of encouraging mindfulness toward other students, who have their own schedules and want their concerns addressed.
“We know how busy you all are, too, with classes, and you need to get to certain things and you have obligations too,” he said. “So, it helps maintain that schedule and that timing of everything.”
Additionally, Lotz said Campus Health encourages continuity of care, taking preventative measures to protect one’s health and well-being. Campus Health is not restricted to acute care, which refers to brief but serious periods of illness that require attention for proper recovery.
