Kent State Partners with Medical University to Offer On-Campus Healthcare

New mandatory student health fee covers all visit co-pays at Kent State's updated health center

Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:53am

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A ghostly, translucent X-ray photograph revealing the internal structure of a stethoscope against a dark background, conceptually representing the improved healthcare access for Kent State students through the university's new medical partnership.A new partnership between Kent State University and Northeast Ohio Medical University will provide students with expanded on-campus healthcare services.Kent Today

Kent State University has announced a new partnership with Northeast Ohio Medical University to provide on-campus healthcare services for students starting July 1. Under the new arrangement, all full- and part-time Kent State students will pay a mandatory Student Health Fee each semester, which will cover the cost of any co-pays for visits to the updated health center. The change aims to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for Kent State's student population.

Why it matters

The new on-campus healthcare model at Kent State is designed to improve access to medical services for students, many of whom may have limited options or face financial barriers to seeking care off-campus. By covering co-pays through a mandatory fee, the university hopes to encourage more students to utilize the health center and address any health concerns proactively.

The details

Under the new partnership, the Kent State health center will be operated by staff from Northeast Ohio Medical University. All full- and part-time students enrolled at the Kent campus will be required to pay the Student Health Fee each semester, which will cover the cost of any co-pays for visits. Students taking online or study abroad courses will have the option to use the health center services but will need to pay per visit. The updated health center will offer a range of primary care services, including routine check-ups, treatment for illnesses and injuries, and referrals to specialists when needed.

  • The new on-campus healthcare model at Kent State will take effect on July 1, 2026.
  • The mandatory Student Health Fee will be implemented starting in the Fall 2026 semester.

The players

Kent State University

A public research university located in Kent, Ohio, with over 28,000 students enrolled across its eight-campus system.

Northeast Ohio Medical University

A public medical university based in Rootstown, Ohio, that specializes in training healthcare professionals and providing community-based clinical services.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to partner with Northeast Ohio Medical University to bring high-quality, affordable healthcare right to our students' doorstep. This new model will make it easier for our community to access the care they need and focus on their academic and personal well-being.”

— Todd Diacon, President, Kent State University

What’s next

Kent State officials will be providing more details about the new healthcare model, including the specific services offered and the cost of the mandatory Student Health Fee, in the coming weeks before the July 1 implementation date.

The takeaway

The partnership between Kent State and Northeast Ohio Medical University represents a proactive effort by the university to prioritize student health and wellness. By making on-campus healthcare more accessible and affordable, Kent State is investing in the overall well-being of its community and setting an example for other institutions to follow.