WELCOME

The mission of the DSC Health and Wellness Center is to promote a climate where faculty/staff/students can become more engaged in healthy lifestyle behaviors through health and wellness resources, information and services.  This program encourages the campus community to strengthen their health and well-being through educational opportunities, and self-improvement with a staff of nurse practitioners and therapists available for appointments as needed.  Taking responsibility for one's health and well-being is an essential part of a person's ability to contribute to the work and mission of DSC.  We invite you to visit the Health and Wellness Center where they have resources full of the latest health information regarding sexual responsibility, alcohol and other drugs, tobacco cessation, nutrition, and other basic health issues. Condoms are also available for those choosing to be sexually active.

ADDRESS, HOURS, and APPOINTMENTS

• The DSC Health and Wellness Center is conveniently located next to campus at 34 North 600 East
• Hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday -- closed Saturday and Sunday
• Summer office hours are Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• For appointments call 435-652-7756

COST and PAYMENT

Students:            $10 per visit – this includes the cost of most basic testing
Faculty/Staff:      $20 per visit – this includes the cost of most basic testing

** Some services are referred to an outside clinic/hospital, in which case additional charges may accrue. 
** Discount vouchers may be available for reduced rates on X-Ray, MRI, and lab services.
** Payment is due at the time of service.  

DISCLAIMER

The materials contained within these pages are presented by Dixie State College for informational purposes and not intended to be used as medical treatment. The resources presented are not a substitute for professional care or attention by a qualified practitioner, nor should they be inferred as such.  DSC is not responsible or liable, directly or indirectly, for any form of damages resulting from the misinterpretation of information contained or implied herein.  Always check with a medical professional if you have questions or concerns about your condition.

UNDER AGE STUDENTS

The DSC Health and Wellness Center provides services to currently enrolled DSC students.  However, on occasion these students may be under the age of 18.  In this case, a consent for treatment form must be submitted to the Health and Wellness Center prior to an exam.  Call 435-652-7756 for details.

STUDENT HEALTH and ACCIDENT INSURANCE

Dixie State College does not provide health insurance for students as part of tuition and fees, or require proof of insurance for registration.   However, students are strongly encouraged to consider having health insurance coverage while attending school.  Students may contact the insurance company/agent of their choice to inquire about insurance products that would help protect him/her from catastrophic health costs while attending Dixie State.  Currently, the DSC Health and Wellness Center does not accept insurance payments and requires that medical health charges ($10 per visit for students and $20 per visit for faculty and staff) to be paid at the time of service.  DSC partners with several insurance providers who offer discounted student health insurance plans.  Information can be obtained at the Health and Wellness Center.

ALLERGIES

Allergies can be a major cause of seasonal or year-round nose and sinus problems. Allergies are caused by a release of a chemical substance in the body called histamine. This chemical is responsible for producing the symptoms of allergies. Allergies can appear at any age, and often run in families. Allergic reactions can result from things such as; certain foods, plants, pollens, dust, animal hair, feathers, molds, soaps, cosmetics, etc.

• Itching or watery eyes
• Skin rashes such as eczema or hives
• Chronic colds
• Nasal or sinus congestion
• Itching
• Sneezing
• Runny nose

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, make an appointment with the DSC Health and Wellness Center who can assist you.  Allergies can be effectively treated and controlled.  If you are receiving Allergy Immunotherapy (shots), the DSC Health and Wellness staff can arrange to keep your serums and administer your injections if you provide a current medical plan.

DEPRESSION

Depression is a serious medical illness. People don't choose to be depressed, and it is not because you are weak or lazy.  Depression affects over 17 million people in the USA each year and is twice as common in women as in men.

• Feeling sad nearly every day for 2 weeks or longer
• Loss of interest in things you previously enjoyed
• Lack of energy
• Major sleep or appetite changes
• Weight changes
• Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, worthlessness
• Not being able to make decisions
• Excessive feelings of guilt
• Loss of sexual desire
• Thoughts of death or suicide

The exact cause of depression is not known. However, it is known that chemical imbalances in the brain, along with genetic and life influences can be responsible for your mood.  Depression can be successfully treated with medication and counseling. Also exercising, eating well and avoiding alcohol can help.  If you are experiencing any of these symptoms -- DON'T WAIT.  Make an appointment today with a DSC Mental Health Therapist at 435-652-7756

ANXIETY

Anxiety can range from uneasiness to extreme panic and fear. Common types of anxiety include; Phobias, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Test Anxiety, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.  If your anxiety is frequent, severe, or interferes with your life, consult with a DSC Mental Health professional at the DSC Health and Wellness Center.  Anxiety is an illness that can impact your life negatively but can be treated effectively.  To speak with a mental health professional to discuss anxiety issues call 435-652-7756

EATING DISORDERS

Anorexia, bulimia and binge eating are all common eating disorders. They often involve other serious medical or emotional issues, and an affected person needs to seek immediate help.

• Hates the thought of body fat
• Exercises often and too excessively
• Uses steroids or supplements
• Skips meals often
• Eats the same thing day after day
• Has conflicts with family or friends over how much or how often they eat
• Vomiting after eating
• Use of diuretics or laxatives after eating
• Secret eating binges

The DSC Health and Wellness Center can provide collaborative care with our Nurse Practitioners (to monitor health status), Mental Health Therapists (to deal with emotional issues), as well as student support groups.   If you think you may be suffering from an eating disorder, contact the Health and Wellness Center today for an appointment, the number is 435-652-7756

MENTAL HEALTH EMERGENCIES

Call one of the following:

• National Suicide Prevention Hotline:
  1-800-273-TALK
• National Runaway Switchboard:
  1-800-RUNAWAY
• Call 911

ILLNESS

DSC Health and Wellness Center provides initial treatment for a variety of common acute and chronic illnesses, which include, but is not limited to:

LAB SERVICES

The DSC Health and Wellness Center offers various laboratory tests including: urinary infections, strep, mononucleosis, glucose, hemoglobin, women's tests, and pregnancy tests.

IMMUNIZATION

DSC does not require immunization for admission, and at this time we do not offer immunizations.  Immunization requests are referred to the Southwest Utah Public Health Department at 435-673-3528

INJURIES

The DSC Health and Wellness Center can treat a variety of minor trauma and injuries. These include but are not limited to:

• Sprains and strains
• Concussions
• Lacerations
• Minor Burns
• Wounds and wound infections
• Insect bites

*The Health and Wellness Center does not have radiology capability. If your injury requires an x-ray, you will be referred to a local clinic or to IHC.   Many patients may qualify for a discount voucher.

SEXUAL ASSAULT

If you are the victim of a sexual assault it is imperative you seek medical attention as soon as possible.  You should not eat, drink, smoke, urinate, bath or shower prior to being seen by a health care professional.  

PRESCRIPTION ADVICE

Healthcare providers at the DSC Health and Wellness Center can prescribe pharmaceuticals, as well as answer questions you might have regarding your medications, or "over the counter" products.   Many medications are very expensive. Speak with a DSC Nurse Practitioner for details or programs that can help you obtain your needed prescriptions.

* The Health and Wellness Center DOES NOT stock narcotics or other controlled substances

• Follow directions exactly
• Finish ALL the medication as instructed
• Do not remove medication from the labeled container
• Report any side effects to your health care provider immediately
• Disclose any allergies
• Disclose use of any over the counter, herbals or illegal substances you may be taking prior to starting any new medication.
• Never share medications
• Never take antibiotics unless instructed by your health care professional

PRE NATAL CARE

The Health and Wellness Center can offer initial pregnancy screenings for expectant mothers. Please make an appointment with a nurse practitioner if you are pregnant and need any of the following:

• Referral to an OBGYN
• Prenatal vitamins
• Information regarding medication use
• Answers to question or concerns

CANCER

The professionals at the Health and Wellness Center would be happy to meet with you to discuss your risk profile, and perform any cancer screenings based on your risk level.  Some tests and exams can be performed at the Health and Wellness Center; others such as mammograms, colonoscopies, and DEXA scans are referred to local hospitals or clinics.  We also encourage students to visit the patient navigation system provided by the American Cancer Society for any additional cancer questions.  www.cancer.org

WOMEN's HEALTH

The Health and Wellness Center offers some basic women's health tests including:

• Breast exams (Free in October for National Breast Cancer Awareness month)
• Contraception and contraceptive counseling
• Pregnancy testing
• Pap smears
• Care related to PMS, ovarian cysts, and menstrual problems 

We DO NOT provide:

• Plan B
• Abortions
• DepoProvera

For these type services, students may contact:
Planned Parenthood
595 South Bluff Street
St. George, UT 84770
435-674-9933

The Health and Wellness Center does not do fertility work-up's or care, although we can provide needed laboratory services at low cost if you are uninsured.

PREVENTIVE CARE

Five Habits of Highly Effective Students

1. Eat well and regularly. Make good food choices and avoid fad diets
2. Drink at least eight (8) full glasses of water a day. Avoid excessive caffeine, carbonation and alcohol.
3. Exercise regularly. Experts recommend 30-45 minutes of daily exercise to lose weight and 30 minutes three times a week to maintain weight.  Exercise will help you concentrate better, relieve stress and have energy.
4. Get plenty of rest.  Go to bed before midnight to avoid adverse effects on your natural sleep-wake cycle. If you are well rested, your immune system is strengthened.
5. Wash your hands! This is the most important thing you can do to prevent illness and the spread of disease.

Many times common illnesses are caused by viruses. There is no cure for viral infection. Antibiotics will not help. The best advice is to follow the 5 habits listed above and treat the symptoms. If your illness lasts longer than 10 days, you have a persistent fever, or your symptoms are worsening, then you should make an appointment with one of our nurse practitioners.

GENERAL HEALTH TIPS

1. Do Not smoke. If you do smoke and would like to quit, the Health and Wellness Center offers a comprehensive smoking cessation program.
2. Establish a habit of exercise and maintain a healthy weight
3. Eat balanced meals, with plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
4. Try to get 7-8 hours of sleep per night
5. ALWAYS wear your seat belt
6. ALWAYS apply sunscreen (at least an SPF 30 or greater) when outdoors
7. Keep your immunizations up to date
8. Get regular blood pressure checks (This is a free service at the Health and Wellness Center – no appointment necessary)
9. Protect against STD's.  If you are sexually active, use condoms.
10. Females -- perform monthly breast self exam, and a yearly breast exam (free in October)
11. Males -- perform monthly testicular self exam (free in November)
12. If you choose to consume alcohol after you are of legal age, do so responsibly and only in moderation
13. Get an eye exam and dental exam at least once per year

MEDICAL EMERGENCY

VIRUS, BACTERIA, or ALLERGY?