On December 11th I sent a letter to the Director of University Health Services asking her to include the HPV vaccine in the 2008-2009 Student Health Insurance Plan.  In the first week of January I called the Director of University Health Services, I left a message mentioning my letter and the tactics I intended to employ due to a lack of response to the letter.  Those tactics included a large print ad in the campus newspaper encouraging students to call, write, or visit the University Health Center to tell them students wanted HPV vaccine coverage.  I received a call from the Director the next day, we discussed my objectives, and we set up a meeting on Tuesday the 15th.

During the 1 ½ hour meeting we discussed how she wanted the HPV vaccine to be covered by Student Health Insurance, but were wary of the increased premium and how it would affect economically disadvantaged students.  My stance was that an increase in premium under $300 would be worth the extended coverage.  We agreed that an open forum would be held on the topic.   

Our open forum entitled, “Student Health Insurance Coverage – HPV Vaccine”, will be held Thursday the 24th at 7PM in the Student Center.  The room we reserved holds 150 people, an invitation to the event has been sent to every student.  I have sent a press release to local media outlets.  The Director of University Health Services and Kent State’s Chief Physician will give presentations and field questions.  We will also be providing free information, condoms, and an exit survey to students.