Take a crash course in campus health care before you need to use it. Once you’re not feeling well, the learning curve is that much steeper. Start managing your health now by doing the following:
Know When to Go
Health Center Facts
Paperwork, Insurance, Costs
Check in with the Health Center
Know When to Go to a Doctor and When It’s an Emergency by asking your doctor or other reliable health care professional to explain. Always call 9-1-1 in an emergency.
Get the Facts About the Health Center: Learn the name of it, where it is located, when it’s open, what services they offer, if you have to make an appointment or if you can drop in, what to do if it’s closed, and if there is a 24-hour help line. Put the phone number in your cell phone, give it to your parent(s) or guardian, and bookmark the web page.
Paperwork, Insurance and Costs: Find out exactly what forms you need to fill out and health records you need to provide, what’s covered on your insurance plan and what’s not, co-pays, what plans they may offer (and number of credits you need to carry to qualify), and if any services are free. Bonus Tip: If you are a student from another country, find out what health records you need to give the college, such as a list of immunizations records, and what to do if you don’t have them.
Check in with the Health Center: If you are managing a chronic illness or problem (such as diabetes, torn ligament, anxiety), you will most likely need to rely on its services on a regular or on-going basis. Contact the center each year before your first semester or as soon as you get there and let the staff know why you are contacting them, and what info they need from you such as your health records, copy of a prescription, your doctor’s name/contact info, etc.