Need a flu shot? Watkins Health Services hosting clinics throughout October
- Watkins Health Services at the University of Kansas is hosting flu shot clinics throughout October to provide accessible vaccination opportunities for students, faculty, and staff, emphasizing the importance of preventive care.
- The clinics are open to all KU students, faculty, and staff, with options for insurance billing and special offers such as free vaccines for uninsured students and a 15% off coupon for campus coffee shops as an incentive.
- Beyond flu shots, Watkins Health Services offers a wide range of healthcare services including treatment for common illnesses and injuries, ensuring that every student has access to essential care regardless of financial burden.
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University of Kansas Students, Faculty, and Staff Encouraged to Get Vaccinated
In a timely effort to combat the upcoming flu season, Watkins Health Services (WHS) at the University of Kansas has kicked off its annual flu shot clinics. These clinics are designed to provide convenient and accessible vaccination opportunities for KU students, faculty, and staff. The initiative underscores the importance of preventive care in maintaining a healthy campus community.
The Need for Flu Vaccines
The flu season is a period when the influenza virus becomes more active, leading to widespread illnesses. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu can cause severe illness, especially among high-risk groups such as older adults, young children, and people with certain chronic health conditions. However, vaccinations play a crucial role in reducing the risk of illness and its complications.
Clinic Details
WHS began its flu shot clinics on October 1, 2024, and will continue them throughout the month. These walk-in clinics are conveniently located in areas such as Strong Hall, providing easy access for students and staff who may need to get vaccinated quickly. The cost of the flu vaccine is $40, although students without insurance can take advantage of a special offer provided by Healthy Blue Kansas, making the vaccine free for those who do not have coverage.
Eligibility and Coverage
The flu shot clinics are open to all KU students, faculty, and staff. For those with health insurance, WHS can bill the insurance provider directly. However, it's essential to bring your health insurance card and KU ID to the clinic to facilitate the billing process. Additionally, current KU employees enrolled in the State Employee Health Plan, including their spouses, have their flu shots covered in full as a preventive care benefit.
Special Offers and Incentives
To encourage participation, WHS has partnered with KU Memorial Unions to offer a special incentive. Students and faculty/staff members who receive a flu shot from one of the clinics or at Watkins Memorial Health Center will receive a 15% off coupon through Grubhub to use at campus coffee shops. This offer is valid for one-time use and can be redeemed via the Grubhub app.
Accessibility and Convenience
The walk-in flu shot clinics are designed to be as accessible and convenient as possible. Patients can check-in at the registration desk in the main lobby and will be seen by a nurse practitioner or physician as soon as possible. While wait times may vary, scheduling an appointment in advance can significantly reduce wait times. For those with urgent care needs outside of WHS hours, LMH Health located at 325 Maine Street is available for immediate assistance.
Additional Services at Watkins Health Services
WHS offers a wide range of healthcare services beyond just the flu shot. The student walk-in clinic provides diagnosis and treatment for common illnesses and minor injuries. Services include evaluation and treatment for respiratory issues such as the flu and sinus/nasal congestion, as well as injuries like abrasions and minor burns. The clinic also offers care for skin conditions, general medical issues, and more.
Ensuring Student Access
WHS has made a concerted effort to ensure that every student can access quality healthcare, regardless of financial burden. The partnership with Healthy Blue Kansas provides funds for free flu shots for students without insurance coverage. This initiative addresses the financial challenges many students face in accessing healthcare services, thereby promoting better health outcomes.
Incentives for Getting Vaccinated
Receiving a flu shot during the fall semester makes students eligible to win a $50 gift card to Walmart. Multiple prizes are available, with multiple winners being chosen. Winners will be contacted via their KU email, adding an element of excitement and motivation for those seeking vaccination.
Conclusion
The annual flu shot clinics hosted by Watkins Health Services are a vital component of maintaining a healthy campus community. By providing accessible and convenient vaccination opportunities, WHS is encouraging all KU students, faculty, and staff to take proactive steps in protecting themselves against the flu. The combination of affordable pricing, special offers, and partnerships with local entities ensures that everyone has a chance to get vaccinated, regardless of financial status. As the flu season approaches, it is more important than ever to prioritize preventive care and take advantage of these valuable resources.
References
- https://calendar.ku.edu/event/flu-shot-clinic-2598
- https://studenthealth.ku.edu
- https://studenthealth.ku.edu/walk-in-clinic
- https://studenthealth.ku.edu/events
- https://studenthealth.ku.edu/flu-shots
