Health Services awaits students

Healthcare is a big topic on the national stage, but were you aware much of the day-to-day coverage you need in your life is covered by your enrollment at Laney? Each semester, every student is required to pay a $17 “Health and Wellness” fee, yet many students do not take full advantage of the system set up for them.

Indra Thadani, director of the Peralta Wellness Center, is working to change that this fall.

Last spring, Laney was host to the successful Wellness Fair and HipHop4HIV concert, both of which she says we can expect to see again next spring. Right now, her efforts are focused on increasing the services available and ensuring they are fully taken advantage of by students.

The Health Center, which is located on the fourth floor of the Student Center (room 412), offers daily services ranging from free bandages and aspirin to reproductive screenings and addiction counseling.

According to Thadani, the majority of students use the Wellness Center for family planning and screenings, which makes up over 50 percent of visits. Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) testing is available to all students, including HIV screenings available by appointment.

Female students should note that on-site services include birth control (including Plan B), physical examinations, and freely available feminine hygiene products. Condoms and other safe-sex devices are provided free to interested

parties.

Across the state, school budgets are under stress, and Laney is no different, but Thadani says the Health Center is looking to expand its services to the Merritt Campus. In addition, vice-chancellor Dr. Jacob Ng has helped Laney obtain a financial grant aimed at increasing mental health services, including stress reduction therapy, grief counseling, and relationship counseling.

Students with poor eyesight will be pleased to note that Laney also has a deal with the UC Berkeley School of Optometry, offering eye-exam and corrective lens vouchers to registered students.

Tuesday through Friday, a licensed Nurse Practitioner is available to treat student’s medical needs. Mondays, a practicing MD can be seen, though scheduling an appointment beforehand is recommended.

Other services of-

fered include Tuberculosis skin tests, nutritional and diet counseling, and several activities aimed at increasing general well being including a meditation service on Thursdays in the Eagle Village.

If you are interested in working for the health center, several position are open to students, who are urged to contact Thadani at the Wellness Center at (510)464-3516.