The Doctor Is In

The UT Dallas Student Health Center has expanded its care offerings with the addition of a full-time doctor, increased office space and new equipment.

Dr. Saniya Naheed, formerly a part-time staffer, joined the University full time in the fall and began treating students for such chronic illnesses as hypertension, hypothyroidism, hypercholesterolemia, non-insulin dependent diabetes and asthma.

Naheed explained that joining the center full time – and expanding its services – was a natural move for her and for the University.

“I like working with students,” Naheed said. “They are generally healthy, and the facilities here are excellent. That being said, we see a lot of hypertension and high blood pressure among students.”

“Being here full time allows me and the rest of the staff to monitor patients consistently,” Naheed said. “It also allows me the ability to regularly offer advice about diets, lifestyle modification and overall health, and it offers students the convenience of getting regular health care right here on campus.”

The Health Center was relocated to state-of-the-art facilities on the fourth floor of the Student Services Building last fall. The new office makes it easier for staff to treat greater numbers of patients while continuing to provide care for acute illnesses and minor injuries.

In addition to Naheed, the center is staffed with five licensed nurses, two certified medical assistants and other healthcare professionals. It features 10 patient exam rooms with new equipment and monitors.   

Naheed said a copy of a patient’s medical records, with information about his or her condition, including current treatment plan, is required to begin care.

Office visits are free for currently enrolled UT Dallas students with a Comet Card.  The center also offers immunizations, women’s wellness exams, birth control and pregnancy counseling, and specialist referrals for students with problems that exceed the center’s capabilities.

Naheed said that nominal fees may be assessed for lab work, medications, procedures and some medical supplies. The center does not offer care for faculty, staff, visitors or family members of students.

Naheed received her MD from Nishtar Medical College in Pakistan and completed her residency at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science’s College of Medicine in Los Angeles.