Screenings Provide West Liberty University Students With Valuable Experience
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The public got the chance to receive free health screenings and learn more about West Liberty University's academic programs in nursing, behavioral health, speech and audiology, and exercise physiology and athletic training Wednesday at The Highlands.
The Highlands Center was used for the event and held for the first time there. People could get their blood pressure measured, receive body mass index scoring, having their hearing tested and receive behavioral health help.
Bethesda resident Hannah Kemp, an exercise physiology student at West Liberty University, said having the screening helps students like herself receive additional hands-on training before she graduates.
"I like helping people stay healthy," said Kemp, who is also a member of the university's track and cross country team.
Nursing student Lauren Bonar, a Wheeling area resident, said she decided to go into nursing because she enjoys caring for people.
"I like caring for people during the most vulnerable times they are dealing with in their lives," she said.
Bonar said, at times, the job can be sad, but it is gratifying to know that she is helping someone through a difficult time. She is set to graduate in May.
One of the attendees, Betty Nicodemus, got her blood pressure taken along with some other screenings. Her husband, retired WLU professor Earl Nicodemus, also attended. Nicodemus was happy to report her screening went well. She noted she was happy to support the students, some of which are in her church's bible study class.
Many Ohio Valley residents are likely familiar with WLU's dental clinics that have been offered to the public and students for decades. However, the school has other clinics for the public as well.
Carol Zombotti, director of clinical education, speech pathology and audiology at WLU, said her department holds speech and hearing clinics 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Thursday on the fourth floor of Campbell Hall on the main campus. A variety of testing is offered for a flat fee of $35 per hour. Her clinic also sells hearing aids at cost.
Becky Meacham, director of the Behavioral Health Clinic at WLU, said behavioral health clinics are held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Thursday for a flat fee of $10 for the public and $5 for students. People can schedule therapy sessions for both adults, couples and children. Psychology assessments are offered for a flat fee of $250. By the end of May the clinic plans to start offering therapy and assessments services from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays at The Highlands Center.
Meacham said the services, conducted by masters-level graduate students, are overseen by licensed clinical professionals with the university. She noted West Virginia has a real need for more licensed behavioral professionals. Some counties do not have any mental health professionals available.
"There is a desperate need and we want to fill it," she said.
Meacham said because of the high demand some people seeking help from local practices sometimes must wait months to get an appointment. Her clinic can typically see people sooner, in a couple weeks or so, she said.