Go to the doctor

For many low income college students, you might not have had consistent health care or insurance before entering college. Most college campuses require you to carry health insurance or offer student health insurance, so take advantage of it.

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Here are a few things to keep in mind about meeting your health care needs in college:

Make it routine. Whenever you get sick, take care of yourself as soon as possible. Make an appointment or call an advice nurse for minor issues or routine health stuff like an annual check up or woman's health concerns.

Do your research. Check out your community resources for free or low-cost clinics. Some schools even have student-run clinics, especially if your college has a medical school attached to it, so research what your resources are before you get sick.

Have a back up plan. I know some low income student say things like "If I get hurt or really sick, don't call an ambulance because I can't afford it." I definitely said something like this more than once, but you have to put your health first. Just in case, make sure you have an "on-call" friend or family member with a car who is down to take you to the hospital in an emergency.

These easy to follow tips will help you take care of yourself and stay healthy!

Got questions? Please feel free to ask The Advisor about it.