COMMITTED TO EXCELLENT CARE: STUDENTS BENEFIT FROM HAVING ACCESS TO EXPERIENCED ON-CAMPUS HEALTH PROVIDERS.

The staff of the on-campus Student Health Services at HPU can empathize. They know it's hard for students to be away from home during sickness or an ongoing medical condition. As mothers, they also know how hard it is for parents to be away from their sons and daughters when they aren't feeling well.

That's why they are committed to providing extraordinary care that puts both students and parents at ease.

HPU is one of only three private universities in the state to have a full-time physician serving as medical doctor. Dr. Marnie Mariette leads the team of physician assistants, nurse practitioners, nurses and certified medical assistants who see student patients for anything from treating acute illnesses to helping manage chronic medical concerns.

Mariette came to HPU with years of medical practice, including opening and running her own office, as well as a passion to serve students.

"Working on a college campus, we have a special opportunity, not only to treat students' physical conditions, but to help them learn to navigate health care in the real world," says Mariette. "What's a referral? How does insurance work? Many of the students we work with are young and healthy. They haven't had much experience with it. We are here to guide them gently through the process and help them become more independent and confident in advocating for their health."

The staff of 11 works together to offer medical examinations, treatment of illnesses and injuries, referrals to specialists, immunizations, laboratory testing, 24-hour nurse phone support, same-day appointments and more.

Mariette says they are the bridge assisting students with their health until the next time they can see their home doctor.

Their patients are comforted knowing they have a place close by on campus where they can receive timely, quality care.

"I've always trusted their professional care and have gotten responses right away when I need them," says student Sarah Berkowitz. "They also do a great job of checking up with me after I visit. Everyone in the office displays great interpersonal communication skills, which helps me feel comfortable and develop a relationship with them."

The staff typically goes above and beyond to help students get prescription refills, access transportation to off-campus appointments and coordinate health-related services with other campus departments. As a Wake Health affiliate, the office also assists students with getting referrals within a whole network...