Health Services Center proud of its technology

The advancement in computer technology, one of the most important changes at Student Health Services at Cal State Long Beach in recent years, is finally near completion.

"We have very advanced medical information technology," said Vic Cannon, budget and operations for the center.

In 1998, the center took their plans, after about a year of work, to the university to see what they would support. The center had a stroke of luck when they found that a person in a charge position with MedicWare Information Systems was a CSULB alumnus. Through MedicWare, a $43,000 gift-in-kind grant was made to the center, meaning $43,000 worth of computers, software and more were donated to the center. Of the $200,000 needed for improvements, the remainder, to be paid over three years, came from Health Center facilities fees.

"Those fees are different from the health fees," Cannon said.

The facilities fee paid by students each semester is $3, according to Cannon.

"It's been going on forever that way," he said.

Once the finances were in place, the center hired a computer consultant at a cost of around $200 for four visits. The consultant, along with doctors, nurses, interns and student assistants, created an extensive and effective computer system, according to Cannon.

The system is capable of tracking patient's histories, finding out if a prescription has been filled and connecting with other medical services. This technology is about five years ahead of other university health centers, Cannon said.

"It's very elaborate," said Chris Williams, analyst programmer.

To make sure that everyone working at the center knows how to properly operate the new technology, instructional classes were held for the staff. In a room occupied by about 11 computers, the doctors, nurses, interns and employees work with an instructor, learning through games and exercises, how the computer functions. Because of the constant ability to upgrade the systems, the learning process is on going, Cannon said.

As is the case in many other CSULB offices, the old computers were on their way out. However, many of these old units, called 486s, are still being used by the center in less demanding positions. Some are used as a reference point by students researching health-related information on the World Wide Web.

"Why toss them?" Cannon said. "They're still serving a purpose."

"Students during a semester frequently use the computers for research," said Holly Ellison, health resources office supervisor.

Further demonstrating advancements in technology, the center recently published a web page on the CSULB website. The page includes such features as a travel chart where students can click on where they are planning to go in the world and get tips on what shots to get and what things to avoid while abroad.

"The page was designed by students while working with doctors and staff," said Cannon.

Many of the new features at the center were designed by students under the guidance of the professionals, according to Cannon.

"What we're trying to do here is maintain the highest standard in student health care," said Cannon.