The University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) and Fish River Rural Health have recently partnered to expand and enhance health services for students, providing access to one of the most comprehensive and affordable health care options available in northern Maine.
Through the partnership, UMFK students now have access to Fish River’s full array of services, including medical, dental, vision, chiropractic, nutrition, behavioral health care, and clinic-based pharmacy. As a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), Fish River operates on a sliding fee scale, making care affordable for all.
“This partnership is a wonderful step forward for student well-being at UMFK,” said Heather Pelletier, Chief Executive Officer of Fish River Rural Health. “We are proud to extend our full range of high-quality health services to UMFK students and to provide convenient, affordable care that meets their needs. Our goal is to help students stay healthy, so they can focus on their academic success and personal growth.”
UMFK and Fish River are currently working together to onboard students to streamline the check-in process when care is needed. To further support students, Fish River also provides complimentary shuttle service to students with appointments, offering pick-ups on campus and in the community, and removing that barrier to their care.
The partnership began in mid-August with physicals and immunizations for student-athletes and resident assistants as they arrived on campus for the fall semester. With multiple locations in Fort Kent, Eagle Lake, and Madawaska, students can choose the site that best fits their schedules. The Fort Kent site will serve as the primary hub for student shuttle services.
UMFK Dean of Students Timothy Doyle emphasized the importance of the collaboration for student success. “We believe this is both the most extensive and affordable option available for our students, offering comprehensive health care at the lowest cost and the widest hours,” Doyle said. “This partnership reflects our commitment to supporting the whole student experience and ensuring our Bengals have every resource they need to thrive at UMFK.”
The collaboration with Fish River strengthens UMFK’s student support network, which already includes academic advising, career services, mental health counseling, and residential life resources. Together, these services ensure that UMFK students receive the guidance and support they need to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
For more information about UMFK, visit umfk.edu. For more information on Fish River Rural Health, visit frrh.org.