Following a recommendation from the 2022 U-M task force charged with planning for the consequences of the U.S. Supreme Court's Dobbs decision and input from student leaders, health and wellness vending machines are now a reality in campus spaces.
The machines are intended to increase access to affordable health and wellness products, particularly items that may be needed discreetly, urgently, or after hours. Examples include:
- Sexual health supplies, including emergency contraception, condoms, lubricant, tampons, and pregnancy tests
- Naloxone nasal spray for suspected opioid overdoses
- Rapid antigen COVID-19 tests
- Cold/flu medication
- Pain relievers
- Personal care products
Once it is available from manufacturers, the new over-the-counter oral contraceptive pill will also be added.
Vending machine locations at UM-Ann Arbor:
- Michigan Union, 4th floor (Central Campus)
- School of Public Health, 1679 SPH1
- Taubman Health Sciences Library, Room 5020
Vending machine locations on other campuses:
- Renick University Center, 2nd floor (UM-Dearborn)
- Harding Mott University Center (UM-Flint)
Usage and feedback on all of the machines will be carefully monitored as future locations are considered. This page will continue to be updated as new locations are added.
“We know people may seek some of these products while in a state of distress, so ensuring they can comfortably and quickly get the items is essential,” stated Susan Ernst, chief of gynecology and sexual health at University Health Service and the campus lead for U-M’s reproductive rights task force.
The naloxone and emergency contraception boxes have special QR codes connecting students or other customers to directions and other important resources for further support.
Robert Ernst, chief health officer and associate vice president for health and wellness in Student Life added, “These machines are an excellent example of health promotion in action. By bringing these products into the campus environment, we are living up to our goal to be a health-promoting university.”
Wolverine Wellness partnered with UHS to bring the machines to U-M. The UHS Pharmacy provides some medications at a subsidized cost for the machines.