SUNY Potsdam

Philosophy

The mission and goals of any health care delivery system are derived from the values and beliefs of all who are part of the system.  In the case of Student Heath Services, the beliefs of the Student Health Advisory Council, students, staff, and the college community are key.  SUNY Potsdam is a student-centered, residential campus committed to "offering, through appropriate means and methods, excellent baccalaureate, master's and continuing education opportunities in the arts and sciences and selected professional disciplines".  Integrated throughout the initiatives of the campus is evidence of an appreciation for diversity and multiculturalism, as well as a belief that each student should be treated as an individual being who should be viewed in totality with his/her environment and experiences.

The beliefs of Student Health Services are consistent with those of the College.  Primary beliefs and values underlying the delivery of care are:

Health and wellness are important aspects of life, necessary for academic success, career, and personal fulfillment.  The college years are an impressionable time in an individuals' development and are the time that health habits are formed which may persist a lifetime.  Student Health Services plays a critical role in guiding students towards adoption of positive health habits through provision of outreach health promotion and educational programs, as well as through role modeling.  Students have the right to readily accessible, quality, cost-effective, confidential health care.  This care includes all aspects of physical and mental health, which are integral components in sustaining a productive college life.  A nurse-managed primary care program, such as Student Health Services, can provide efficient care through funding from student fees, third party reimbursement and campus/state support.