Telehealth gives students 24/7 access to care

Augustana College students now have free 24/7 access to medical and mental health visits through a telehealth program called Students.Care.

The program launched at the same time the college's on-campus health clinic, Augustana Convenient Care, opened Aug. 31.

In the final phase of the planning for Augustana Convenient Care last year, students considered the advantages of an in-person clinic compared to telehealth. They recommended that the college move forward with both services because they meet different needs and provide a well-rounded health care approach.

“Augustana students are very involved and active on our campus and in our community,” said Dr. Wes Brooks, dean of students. “We wanted to be able to provide them with health care services they are able to access at any time. It’s important they are able to prioritize their physical and mental well-being, and this service helps accomplish that.”

Students.Care provides the convenience of 24/7 access; students can be seen virtually by a health care professional for common conditions, including colds and flu. Telehealth can be used by students who prefer virtual options. Also, enrolled students don't have to be on campus to connect, so someone studying abroad or at home over spring break would have access.

Augustana Convenient Care is open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays.

Both the clinic and telehealth services are free to students. Students would be responsible for lab work or prescription drug costs.

Mental health services

Augustana also offers on-campus Student Counseling services at no cost. Students have access to these counseling services during regular business hours and on a regular basis.

Students.Care provides an additional 24/7 resource for students seeking mental health counseling.

“Students.Care truly complements the continued efforts of Augustana College to become a leader in student well-being and resiliency by expanding mental health resources beyond the campus and by creating a rich array of supportive services,” said William Iavarone, director of Student Counseling at Augustana.

“Student Counseling Services is so grateful to have Students.Care fill in some gaps in our continuum of care, giving Augie students more options for support, growth, and acceptance," he said.

“Access to medical care 24/7 gives students the peace of mind they need to continue being active, engaged and creative community members on our campus,” said Dr. Brooks. “It also provides parents with an additional level of trust that their students are being cared for.”

Students.Care is provided by TimelyMD and Educational and Institutional Insurance Administrators (EIAA).