Evaluating General and Sexual Health Services and Information on Western Washington Community College (CC) Campuses

Abstract

Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate general and sexual health and violence services, resources and information available to CC students. Methods: This qualitative case study used phenomenology to evaluate five diverse CC campuses in Western Washington. Campuses were located in both urban and suburban locations and had a range from 10,000-32,000 students/year. The variables of interest in evaluation of resources included accessibility, information and privacy. Data collection included photographs during field observation, interviews with administrative and health services staff, and content evaluation of webpages and social media posts. Results: Across the 5 campuses there were no on-site health centers, but varied presence of counseling and other health resources. Many staff did not know what health resources were available. Websites were accurate but information was hard to find, and social media was rarely utilized for health. Privacy was limited around health services and information. Conclusion: Findings indicate a need for improved staff knowledge, and effective use of websites and social media to disseminate health information.