Editor’s note: The Daily Emerald welcomes guest viewpoints or letters to the editor from the University of Oregon and Eugene community. This guest viewpoint reflects the opinions of its writers –  Lazar Isakharov, Sarah Culver and Elise Yeung of the Student Health Advisory Committee – and not of The Emerald as an organization.

–

At some point in their college career, many students will have some sort of experience with the University of Oregon Health Services. From something as simple as a flu shot to an all-day affair like wisdom tooth removal, UHS treats a multitude of conditions that students may encounter. However, many students are misinformed about what, how, where and when they can turn to UHS for help. 

So, what are the facts?

According to annual UHS statistics reports, in the last academic year alone, UHS has assisted over 47,000 students with their healthcare needs. Students accessing the services report a 95% patient satisfaction, which is nearly 3% higher than the national average. 

In fact, UHS is a comparatively unique resource on campus to help students navigate and address their healthcare and clinical needs. UHS is nationally accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care. A full range of services are provided, including acute care, primary care, musculoskeletal care, sexual health, mental health counseling, dental, physical therapy and pharmacy. 

Even compared to local Eugene health centers, UHS’ subsidized prices allow students to find low-cost interventions. For example, at the UHS pharmacy, ibuprofen costs $2 to $3, compared to $7 to $10 at the local Safeway or Hirons, and acetaminophen costs about $2, compared to $5-$8 at local pharmacies. 

Open to the entire UO student population, UHS staff prioritizes reducing wait times for services. Current wait times for physical exams are three to four days, and acute care is zero to three days, depending on the severity. Additionally, students can expect to receive care on the same day for STI testing and mental health access, or wait one week to establish individual short-term therapy.

In addition to reduced costs, UHS works with a variety of insurances, including the Oregon Health Plan. Students also have access to the Student Health Benefits Plan, a federally recognized insurance, which covers UHS, national and international care. Importantly, most students can sign up for CCare, which gives access to sexual health medical visits, lab tests, birth control (including IUDs) and reproductive healthcare to students at no cost. In the 2024-25 academic year, CCare covered over $240,000 in healthcare for students accessing care at UHS. 

Additionally, short-term counseling services and emergency mental healthcare are free for all students, as well as nurse triage visits.

For care that requires services outside of UHS, ASUO’s Uber program for discounted healthcare rides now includes UHS as a pick-up location and can take you to PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center, McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center or Planned Parenthood. 

During your time at UO, it is important to be aware of the resources available to you. Please reach out to [email protected] if you have any questions, and fill out this survey with feedback about UHS.

–

The Student Health Advisory Committee is a student-run organization under the University of Oregon Health Services.