Abstract

This thesis, titled “Bridging the Gap: Factors Affecting College Students' Use of University Health Services," investigates the barriers and motivators influencing student engagement with campus health resources at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU). Given that approximately 2,000 college health centers across the U.S. serve over 20 million students, understanding why some students underutilize these services is crucial for enhancing campus health outcomes (National College Health Assessment - ACHA, 2024). Using a mixed-methods approach, the research gathered data through surveys (n = 118) and an in-depth interview with the EKU Student Health Coordinator. The study aimed to identify key factors affecting students' decisions to use or avoid health services, focusing on elements such as accessibility, awareness, affordability, and perceived stigma. Results showed that while 73% of respondents had utilized the health center, significant barriers like a lack of awareness (33.3%), inconvenient hours, and a perceived lack of need (32.6%) hindered others from seeking care. Conversely, motivators for service use included affordability, convenience, and positive recommendations from peers. The research highlights a gap in awareness, with only one-third of students fully informed about the available services, suggesting potential areas for improvement. Based on these findings, the study proposes actionable recommendations such as expanding clinic hours, launching targeted awareness campaigns, and optimizing appointment systems to reduce wait times. These strategies aim to increase student utilization of health services, thereby promoting a healthier campus environment and supporting students’ academic and personal success.

Semester/Year of Award

Fall 2024

Mentor

Dr. Lisa Middleton

Mentor Department Affiliation

Biological Sciences

Access Options

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Honors Scholars

Degree Level

Bachelors

Department

Biological Sciences

IRB Approval Number (if applicable)

6081

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