The Student Health Centers at Rutgers University plays a central role in the university’s “Screen and Intervene”strategy by integrating health services with basic needs support. Through routine medical and wellness visits, staff screen students for issues like food insecurity, housing instability, and financial stress. When needs are identified, students are referred to campus resources such as the Basic Needs Center, Counseling Services, and emergency aid programs. Hurtado also collaborates with the Dean of Students Office and the Share a Concern platform to ensure timely, coordinated interventions that support student well-being and academic success.
How the Student Health Centers Supports Basic Needs via Screen and Intervene
Health-Integrated Screening
Rutgers Student Health, which includes medical services, counseling, and wellness education. When students seek care—whether for physical health, mental health, or wellness—they may be screened for basic needs insecurity as part of their intake or follow-up process. This includes questions about:
- Food insecurity
- Housing instability
- Financial stress
- Emotional distress
- Safety concerns
These screenings are designed to identify students at risk early and connect them with appropriate resources.
Referral and Intervention Network
Once a student is identified as needing support, Student Health Center collaborates with the Basic Needs Center, Counseling, Alcohol and Other Drug Assistance Program & Psychiatric Services (CAPS), and other campus partners to provide:
- Emergency food and housing referrals
- Mental health counseling
- Financial aid and emergency grants
- Substance use support
- Crisis intervention and safety planning
The Threat Assessment Safety Committee (TASC) also plays a role in coordinating responses for students in distress, ensuring that interventions are timely and holistic.
Share a Concern Program
Students, faculty, and staff can use the “Do Something to Help – Share a Concern” platform to report concerns about a student’s well-being. These reports are reviewed within one business day by the Dean of Students Office, and Student Health Center may be involved in follow-up care or referrals.
Community-Based Support
Student Health Center is also involved in community engagement efforts, such as:
- Collaborations with the Basic Needs Center to ensure students have access to food, clothing, and hygiene products.
- Participation in campus-wide wellness campaigns that promote mental health, resilience, and self-care.
Location and Access
- Address: 11 Bishop Place, New Brunswick, NJ
- Phone: (848) 932-7402
- Services: Medical care, wellness visits, chronic condition management, and urgent care
