The official student newspaper of University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire since 1923.

The Spectator

The official student newspaper of University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire since 1923.

The Spectator

The official student newspaper of University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire since 1923.

The Spectator

Letter to the Editor: April 4, 2013

I would like to respond to Student Body President Corydon Fish’s incorrect statements in the March 28 Spectator article “Student Health Services could face changes.” He stated that SHS has regularly requested double digit increases to its budget.

SHS budget increase requests have not been in the double digits for over ten years.

Also, when he stated that these budget increases have primarily been to increase salaries and to purchase equipment, I would beg to differ.  As state employees, any increase in salaries has been in line with state mandated raises negotiated with our state legislature.

In actuality, these “increases” have been minimal or nonexistent for at least the past six years.  There have been some fluctuations in our salary requests, as there have been staffing changes that occur as people retire, change positions, etc.  One important staffing change was adding a psychiatrist to our staff (with Senate approval) for two days per month. This increased level of expertise has been a tremendous benefit to the students who have needed it.  However, this did not increase our budget request into the double digits.

Story continues below advertisement

SHS has direct accountability to student leadership for our funding, and we are appreciative of their continued support over the many years (75 this year) we have been in
existence.

The cost of healthcare in general has risen exponentially and we put out a great deal of effort to continue to make our service affordable and accessible.

 
Medical Director at Student Health
Services, Joanne Mellema

Leave a Comment
More to Discover

Comments (0)

The Spectator intends for this area to be used to foster healthy, thought-provoking discussion. Comments are expected to adhere to our standards and to be respectful and constructive. As such, we do not permit the use of profanity, foul language, personal attacks or the use of language that might be interpreted as libelous. The Spectator does not allow anonymous comments and requires a valid email address. The email address will not be displayed but will be used to confirm your comments.
All The Spectator Picks Reader Picks Sort: Newest

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Activate Search
Letter to the Editor: April 4, 2013