SC State opens ‘OnMed CareStation’ – a high-tech health access station – inside new campus community wellness hub
The station provides free health care access to anyone regardless of socioeconomic and insurance status.
ORANGEBURG, S.C. – South Carolina State University on Wednesday officially launched two campus projects designed to improve health care access and outcomes on and off campus.
Officials cut the ribbon on the Bulldog Health & Wellness Hub and the OnMed CareStation – a high-tech health care access solution -- inside the hub.
Both grant-funded projects are coordinated through SC State’s Health Education Research and Training Center (HERT-C) and co-directors Dr. Ashley Evans Knowell and Dr. Audrey McCrary-Quarles.
SC State President Alexander Conyers said he was excited about the projects from their inception nearly two years ago.
“I knew then that our community needed it, and I knew then that our residents deserved it, because I certainly understand the health challenges of not just this community but the health challenges across the state and across the nation,” Conyers said. “So, this is an opportunity for South Carolina State University to participate in a solution for this enormous problem that we face each and every day.
“This work is important, these services are important to everyone regardless of race, color, gender – everyone is entitled to the best health care that’s available,” he said.
Patients using the CareStation can consult privately with certified clinicians by way of videoconferences. The station is equipped with:
- A scale.
- Thermal scan technology for temperature and infection readings.
- A blood pressure cuff.
- An oximeter.
- A stethoscope.
- A handheld HD camera.
Clinicians often have enough vital inputs to provide a qualified diagnosis, treatment plan, or e-prescription if needed. Clinicians also may refer patients to other health care providers as necessary.
The CareStation’s technology features built-in antimicrobial protection. A multistage air filtration system runs in the unit 24/7 to reduce airborne viruses and bacteria. The interior of the Care Station is disinfected via UVC irradiation after every patient visit.
“We are honored to establish this first-of-its-kind partnership in South Carolina with the esteemed South Carolina State University. Collaborating with such innovative leaders is a privilege, and we look forward to making a meaningful difference together,” OnMed CEO Karthik Ganesh said.
Knowell, an associate professor of biology/bioengineering science, said the $1 million U.S. Department of Agriculture Distance and Telemedicine Grant will support three years of OnMed services.
“This OnMed CareStation provides free health care access to anyone regardless of their socioeconomic status and insurance status,” Knowell said “You can use it at no cost.”
While increasing access to assessments and care, the CareStation should reduce emergency room and urgent care center visits for non-emergency situations.
“We know this kiosk will be a blessing to so many people, and lives will not only be changed but saved,” Knowell said. “Please use our CareStation. We want you to use it as much as you want to. Bring your family and friends.”
Wednesday’s event also marked the grand opening of the Bulldog Health & Wellness Hub. The project was made possible by a $500,000 grant from the HBCU Health Discovery Program housed at the University of South Carolina’s Center for Rural and Primary Healthcare.
McCrary-Quarles, an SC State professor of health education, described the Bulldog Health & Wellness Hub as a one-stop shop offering free services and resources enhancing the well-being of students, faculty, staff and community members.
In addition to the OnMed CareStation, the hub provides:
- Access to social workers who will aide visitors with such services as navigating Medicaid, Medicare and SNAP applications,
- A resource center with a computer to look up health needs.
- A “chat and relax” lobby and a “peace room” for personal reflection.
- A telehealth room where guests can chat privately with health care providers.
- A multipurpose room for education, training and workshops.
McQuary-Quarles also intends to purchase a vending machine providing COVID-19 test kits, hygiene, condoms, pregnancy tests and other health-oriented items.
“The center represents more than just a building,” said Dr. Frederick Evans, SC State’s provost and vice president for academic affairs. “It’s a symbol for our shared commitment to health, support and connection within the community. We are forever grateful to everyone who made this possible.”
The Bulldog Health & Wellness Hub and the CareStation are in the former Moss Hall Annex adjacent to Moss Hall and the Crawford-Zimmerman Building off Pinckney Street. The hub and the CareStation are open 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. No appointments are necessary.
Click here for answers to frequently asked questions about SC State’s OnMed CareStation.
For more information, contact Dr. Ashley Evans Knowell at aevans10@scsu.edu or 803-533-3674 or Dr. Audrey McCrary-Quarles at amccrar1@scsu.edu or 803-516-4818.
