University Health Services' (UHS) recent addition of a 24-hour advice nurse is the first step in improving healthcare for students at Penn State.

Previously only available during UHS's regular weekday office hours, the advice nurse -- which can be reached at 814-863-4463 -- now is able to answer student questions throughout the weekend, when the healthcare facility is closed. Although the nurse is not available to examine patients or hold regular appointments, the nurse can let students know whether they need to seek medical attention or give other advice.

Long lines and limited office hours at UHS's Ritenour Building have long been a problem for students who are sick but unable to get immediate medical attention. Students consistently complain about a lack of available appointments and walk-in visits, as well as difficulty scheduling such appointments because of the facility's limited office hours.

Although we still look forward to UHS extending its office hours and facilities for one-on-one medical consultation, we appreciate this new program and see it as a good start to solving the overflow problem at UHS.

Eventually we would like to see on-site treatment available at Ritenour 24 hours a day, including the weekends, but in the mean time, we welcome this change.

Any extension of services is a good one, as it benefits all students in the long-run.