From organic foods to new exercise programs and living styles, fitness is easier than ever to achieve. We have offered tips on how to avoid the Freshman 15, find ways to work out from the comfort of your residence, and more. But one of the most important ways to stay healthy is to make sure you have access to health insurance to help you visit a primary care doctor and cover the costs of any ailments or injuries that may occur.
In 2016, the White House established the White House Healthy Campus Challenge, which aimed to engage college and university campuses, and in particular community college campuses, across the country in efforts to enroll more students in Health Insurance Marketplace plans established by the Affordable Care Act.
Monroe Community College, one of 350 colleges and universities nationwide that successfully tackled the challenge, was officially named a Healthy Campus by the White House in January.
Gaining this recognition was no small feat. MCC’s Wellness Council used a variety of outreach initiatives to build more awareness around the benefits and ease of affordable health insurance enrollment. Using the #GETCOVERED campaign as a basis, the college-wide effort included posters, email newsletters, and social media outreach to reach students. In addition, four health resource fairs were held and on-campus application counselors answered student questions in person.
MCC’s participation was well worth the effort. “The success of our students is dependent upon their health and well-being,” President Anne Kress said. “Because MCC is committed to their success, this initiative made perfect sense. Health issues can easily sidetrack even the most dedicated student. Having access to health care is vital to keeping our students focused – vital to their ability to eventually join the workforce and contribute to this community as engaged and productive citizens.”
You can watch the certificate presentations from the Healthy Campus Challenge Day at the White House below, including our own Monroe Community College.
