to be held next week
San Diego State University students have mixed opinions concerning a proposed Student Health Services fee increase that will be put to a vote next week.
If the increase passes, students will pay $70 a semester instead of the current semester fee of $55 for basic health services.
Some students say the fee increase is a way of socializing the services.
“Not all students use (SHS),” said Stasi Cutler, an anthropology junior. “I don’t think everyone should have to pay for something that only a few use.”
Cutler said SHS should charge students per visit and maybe charge more for prescriptions. She said she has used the services this year and wouldn’t mind paying for them when she needs them.
Kevin Patrick, director of SHS, said health services cost $62.50 per student at SDSU. He said the difference between costs and fees this year has had to come out of an SHS emergency reserve account.
If the increase passes, the extra $15 could allow SHS to acquire more specialized doctors, extend their hours on Mondays and Thursdays, and provide service during the summer. Patrick also said SHS may add a 24-hour nurse hotline.
Damian Aragon, a criminal justice junior, agreed with Cutler that only those who use SHS should pay for it. He said he already has medical insurance and doesn’t need the extra services.
“I’m short on money as it is,” he said. “I don’t see how they could need more money. They already get $55 with every student here.”
Michelle Bull, an exercise and nutritional science junior, agreed that some students abuse the services, but she plans on voting in favor of the fee increase anyway.
“I know a lot of people who abuse it,” Bull said. “My old roommate went every time any little thing went wrong.”
Bull said the $15 increase is something she’d be willing to pay because the cost of medical supplies and prescriptions has risen and because some students can’t afford medical insurance.
Patrick said if the fee increase passes this year, it will not have to be raised again for another three years.
If it doesn’t pass, however, services may be cut and students may be unable to make appointments. Patients will be taken on a first come, first served basis, and those with more serious injuries or illnesses will be given priority.
Jennifer Lopez, a journalism junior, said she has visited SHS at least seven times this year alone. She has been treated for the flu, strep throat and other ailments.
“I think it’s worth it,” she said. “I don’t have health insurance, and to just get medicine is something I wouldn’t be able to afford.”
Katie Scollin, a political science major, said there’s nothing wrong with the increase. She uses SHS even though she already has health insurance.
“SHS is very convenient and inexpensive,” she said. “I think more students should use it and not complain about the fee increase. Regular health insurance is a lot more expensive.”
Students will be able to vote on the increase in a special election on April 30 and May 1 at polling sites around campus.
