Starting next fall, ECC students will have access to a health clinic in Building K. 

This new endeavor is made possible through Advocate Health Care, a health system based in Downers Grove. All students will have access to the clinic regardless of health insurance status. 

The health clinic will be a partnership between ECC and Advocate Health Care, according to Chief Human Resources Officer at ECC Anthony Ray.

Ray described the initiative as a positive change that is “bridging the equity gap.” 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Census statistics, nearly 8 percent to Illinois residents who are 65 years old or younger do not have health insurance.   

“There is a growing need for accessible healthcare for college students across our country,” said Sheri De Shazo, president of Advocate Sherman Hospital. “This is why we’re proud to partner with Elgin Community College to bring quality health care to students, faculty and staff at the new Advocate clinic. The convenient location of the Advocate clinic on campus will make it a go- to place for primary care and additional health services.”

Ray explained the ECC Board of Trustee’s approved the partnership between Advocate Health Care, and that it was expressed that there was a need for the health clinic to be located in Building K because it is considered the most accessible building on campus.

“Affordable healthcare is a reality most students at ECC have needed to think about once,” said Melissa Arenas, a first year student. She recently obtained health insurance, but it was an arduous journey to get coverage.”

If there was a health service provided on campus, Arenas said she would be more likely to take advantage of that. 

Percy Shultz, a first year student expressed a similar sentiment as Arenas. Shultz believes having access to healthcare would incentivize students who miss school because of illness. 

ECC won’t be the only local community college with a health clinic. 

“Harper College does have a [health] clinic,” said Julie Mayer, manager of business development with Advocate Health Care. “The Northwest Community Hospital is the one who does partner with them on that. There are similar clinics on college campuses.”

Mayer also explained that the ECC’s clinic will have a small lobby and have two patient rooms.