Health care, ranging from treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome to therapy for back injuries from carrying heavy loads, is awaiting students at The University of Memphis health center.
Dr. Etheldreda Collins, a physician at the health center, said in addition to the normal problems at The University of Memphis, like flu and allergies, she sees many patients with conditions unique to students.
"We may see a student who has carpal tunnel syndrome, or injuries from people carrying heavy back packs," Collins said.
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the swelling of tissue in the wrist, and is directly related to continual, repetitive movement of the wrists.
"There is a nerve that runs into the hand through the wrist." Collins said. "It can become irritated and compressed with repetitive motions."
Collins said treatment for CTS includes wrists splints.
"If it's severe, we will recommend orthopedic surgery," she said.
Jacquline DeFouw, a health educator with the center, said the staff is focused on student satisfaction and confidentiality. DeFouw also said the health center is equipped with a range of diagnostic equipment.
"We're very student friendly," DeFouw said. "We always maintain the utmost confidentiality. We have full services -- we do x-rays and lab work here."
The health center also provides free screenings for various medical conditions.
"We have lots of free screening programs, like high cholesterol, diabetes and high blood pressure," Collins said. "We do a lot of preventive health care -- we vaccinate for hepatitis, meningitis and influenza."
This time of year, the health center is flooded with students combating influenza.
"What we're seeing is a lot of influenza and other respiratory tract infections," Collins said.
She suggested students take extra precautions to ensure they do not contract the disease.
"Try to avoid being around other people who are sick," Collins said. "No cigarette smoking. I would also recommend frequent hand washing. It truly helps."
Today there will be an allergy screening, by appointment only. According to Collins, about 100 people have signed up for the service.
Although Collins is the only full-time physician at the health center, she said it doesn't usually interfere with students receiving same-day service.
"If they are ill, they can be usually be seen in the physician's office," Collins said. "They can usually be seen in the same day."
"It's on campus, so it's convenient," she said. "We see patients Monday through Friday."
"The staff here is tuned into college students," she said. "There are specific problems (students) face."
Collins said she wants to assure students the health center staff is fully accredited and skilled to supply services. The staff includes two psychologists, one psychiatrist, part-time physicians from Methodist hospital and nurses.
"We really have a good faculty here and the people here are really well trained," Collins said. "We also belong to the (American College Health Association) ACHA. We keep up with other (medical) institutions."
