Theses and Dissertations

Issuing Body

Mississippi State University

Advisor

Molina, Danielle

Committee Member

Winkler, Christa

Committee Member

Pylate, Leah

Committee Member

Poe, Katrina

Date of Degree

8-8-2023

Document Type

Dissertation - Open Access

Major

Educational Leadership

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D)

College

College of Education

Department

Department of Educational Leadership

Abstract

There is extensive research over the decades around health care services utilization trends, however, limited data and research exists around student utilization of campus health centers. Furthermore, there is very minimal data on student utilization trends of campus health services since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Since a crucial component to fostering healthy and safe college campuses is through campus health services, it clearly indicates a need for further research on the trends and perceptions of students’ campus health services utilization. This study examines utilization rates of students through exploring key demographic characteristics of students, including their perceptions toward utilization of campus health services, for their physical well-being and medical care.

This dissertation is a secondary data analysis of the American College Health Association-National College Health Assessment. This study’s specific aims were to examine if key characteristics exist of students utilizing campus health centers, and if those trends still exist or had shifted after the Covid-19 pandemic. The data was used to evaluate if there are significant relationships between student demographics and their respective perceptions of campus health services.

Drawing on a nationally representative sample of undergraduate students, data analysis found various statistical significance based on the various steps in the Andersen Behavioral Model of Health Services Use. The results confirmed there are barriers to college student utilization of health services, specifically for certain race/ethnicity, international students, having an active health insurance policy, and how they perceive health being a priority on campus. Given the vital role that student health services have on college campuses, efforts to increase campus health service utilization should be considered through targeted programming and more inclusive staffing and service offerings.

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