COLLEGE STUDENTS AND HEALTH CARE SERVICES: EXPLORATION OF STUDENTS’ EXPERIENCES AND SATISFACTION WITH MEDICAL PROVIDER COMMUNICATION

Abstract

The theory of emerging adulthood and ecological approach are used in the current study to investigate emerging adults' health related behaviors and communication with health care providers on college campus. College students developmentally transition to college life while increasing independence and exploration as they move out of their parents' homes and take on more responsibilities, including being responsible for their own health and health care needs often for the first time. The current study explores college students' experiences as patients at their university's student health center with emphasis on provider communication satisfaction, their health-related behavior, and developmental needs as emerging adults. Ninety-eight students from East Carolina University (ECU) participated in the survey. While the majority of students reported high levels of satisfaction with provider communication with age and health related behaviors contributing to it significantly, some students expressed disappointment in their experiences as a patient. Recommendations for medical providers on college campuses and implications for future research are discussed.