Petrina J. Roudebush/Roundup
Obtaining health insurance shouldn’t be complicated.
You should be able to fill out a couple forms, get a physical and that should be the end of it, right?
That might be the case for many others, but not for me.
In 2008, my family had to end our health insurance plan with Kaiser Permanente due to our financial situation.
This decision caused a lot of complications, especially for the future of my health.
I have a heart condition called neurocardiogenic syncope, along with mild arthritis and severe asthma.
Multiple insurance companies denied my application due to my previous conditions, specifically my heart condition.
I could not afford anything other than basic medical coverage and I was unable to do anything about it.
Then one day when I was feeling ill, I decided to visit the Pierce College Student Health Center.
I was a little hesitant, but had no reason to be.
The staff was upbeat and went out of their way to make me feel more comfortable in new surroundings.
And, to my surprise, they were able to see me that day ? and it was free.
They have helped me more than I could have ever hoped.
Just imagine you had a health problem and had nowhere to go and no one to turn to.
The Health Center will always be there to help. They do not discriminate and no problem is too small.
The services given are greatly needed at a community college filled with students who may not be able to afford or obtain health services.
They have helped alleviate my stress regarding my health and I know they will continue to help other students in the future.
The center provides first aid, physical exams and health information, as well as psychological services, family planning services, crisis intervention and more.
Though some of the exams may cost money, it is still cheaper than going to the doctor’s and paying for an office visit.
It is recommended to make an appointment in advance to see any of the nurses or doctors on campus.
The Student Health Center is located in the Campus Center next to the cafeteria.
Anyone with questions may call the center at (818) 710-4270. More information is also available at the Pierce College Web site.
This is an appointment many of us can now afford to make.
