College Partners with Local Health Care Provider to Open Campus Clinic

By Rachel Coleman

LIBERAL, Kan. — Students at Seward County Community College can easily access health care thanks to an on-campus clinic opening in September. Lynsey Carter, DNP-NP-C will provide walk-in and appointment services to students weekday mornings. The student health clinic will operate from Room T128 in the main Industrial Technology building, with plans underway for a long-term site. SCCC President Brad Bennett said the arrangement embodies the power of collaboration for the good of the community.

“Southwest Medical Center provided us with great information as we mapped out the project,” he said. “And of course, Lynsey brings years of local experience to this role. If the pandemic taught us anything, it is that we work most effectively to keep people healthy when we align with the healthcare experts in the community, and everyone benefits.”

A planned renovation of the original dorm building on campus to create clinic space will provide easy access for students who need medical care or mental health services. Interior demolition is slated to begin later in the fall semester, pending board approval of the project.

“When we consulted architects, we learned that it would cost more to tear down the old dorm building than to refurbish it,” said Bennett. Transforming it is the ideal solution. “Instead of having to make appointments and arrange for transportation, professional care will be steps away.”

In the interim, the campus trail system provides direct access for students to walk from the main campus complex to the temporary clinic.

SCCC’s Head Athletic Trainer and Wellness Center Director Liz Hill is taking the lead in managing the new service for student health.

“Liz has the professional training to care for student-athletes, not just physically but also holistically,” Bennett said. “Her insights are invaluable.” Hill received the 2022 Award of Excellence for her work at SCCC from the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development.

“We’re excited to get started on this project and welcome Lynsey to campus,” said Bennett. “It’s another way to show up for our students and do our work a little better every day.”