College student using a wellness vending machine to access OTC medications and health products on campus

How Wellness Vending Machines Improve Student Health and Academic Success

How Wellness Vending Machines Improve Student Health and Academic Success

For many students, staying healthy isn’t just about avoiding illness — it’s about having the right resources when they need them most. When over-the-counter (OTC) medications or wellness products aren’t readily available, even minor health issues can snowball into bigger problems that affect class attendance, academic performance, and overall well-being.

What the Purdue Study Revealed

According to a Purdue University study, “Developing, Implementing, and Evaluating a Campus-Wide Pharmacy Vending Machine Program”, lack of access to OTC items negatively impacts school attendance, academic performance, and individual health (ResearchGate). Students without access to pain relievers, cold medicine, or cough drops were more likely to miss class and fall behind in coursework.

This demonstrates that wellness vending machines for college students are more than convenient — they are a proven way to support academic success.

Why 24/7 OTC Access Matters

College students often face barriers like limited transportation, budget constraints, or inconvenient health center hours. For a student battling a cold before an exam or needing pain relief in the middle of the night, waiting until the next day simply isn’t practical.

By offering 24/7 OTC access through wellness vending machines, campuses can ensure students are cared for when they need it most.

A Simple Solution With Big Impact

Wellness vending machines help colleges:

  • Reduce class absences from minor illnesses

  • Improve equity by making wellness supplies accessible to all students

  • Strengthen campus wellness initiatives and student support services

Partnering With My BIO TESTS

At My BIO TESTS, we make it easy for colleges to adopt this model. Our Wellness Vending Machine Placement Program includes installation, stocking, and maintenance — at no cost to your institution.

Now is the time to act: reserve a wellness vending machine today and support your students before flu and respiratory season begins.

Learn more about our wellness vending machine placement program.

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