Health Services - Frequently Asked Questions
Full-time students with a complete medical history form on file with Health Services are eligible for medical services. Medical records are required at the time of entry. Forms can be obtained by contacting the Wellness Center at 603.645.9679.
Is our conversation confidential?
All visits are confidential. Information is shared only if a student provides consent (e.g. speaking with an instructor about absences).
Is there a cost for using Health Services?
There is no cost associated with seeing a nurse in the Wellness Center or for consultations with the University Physician. Lab work conducted in the office (e.g. throat culture) will be billed directly to you by the laboratory analyzing the test.
What services are available if I'm sick at night or on the weekend?
Health services are not available during night or weekend hours. If you are unsure about the seriousness of your condition or how you might treat it, Ask-A-Nurse is a 24 hour hotline 603.626.2626 you can access to speak with a trained professional about your medical needs and suggestions for alleviating your symptoms.. In the event of a health situation that needs immediate attention, you are encouraged to use one of the two area hospitals: Elliott Hospital 603.669.5300 or Catholic Medical Center 603.668-.3545.
Is there a physician on campus?
The university contracts with a local physician, who determines the medical protocols that Health Services will follow. The physician works within a local practice and sees students in his office, when necessary. The cost of the physician's office visit is covered under university services. Any medical tests or referrals to a specialist are your responsibility.
The physician is also available by phone for consultation with the nurses regarding prescription needs and treatment plans. The physician does not hold office hours on campus.
I've missed class due to illness. Will the Wellness Center write a note for my instructor?
Health Services staff do not issue notes for absences due to illness. Staff will speak with instructors regarding absences that they medically recommended. Discussions between staff and instructors will only take place with your permission and being mindful of confidentiality. Staff will NOT discuss the specifics of your medical circumstance with instructors or other university officials. They will only indicate whether an absence was warranted and prescribed.
I've been reading a lot about meningitis cases on college campuses. Should I get immunized?
At this time, the institution does not require immunization against meningitis; however, it is strongly recommended as the risk of contraction is higher for the college population. Questions about immunization should be directed to your personal physician or to a Health Services staff member.
Does the Wellness Center provide transportation off-campus for medical care?
The Wellness Center does not provide transportation. In instances when you are unable to find a ride, cab and local bus service are available as options. Please talk with a Health Services professional if the cost of transportation is a factor.
In cases requiring emergency medical attention and transportation, Health Services staff will call an ambulance.
How can I get a prescription?
To obtain a prescription you must first meet with a nurse in Health Services who will assess your condition and report findings to the University Physician. If warranted, the doctor will order medicine at a local pharmacy.
It is your responsibility to pick up your prescription. If you live on campus and are not able to find transportation, you can use local services described above or arrangements can be made for a local pharmacy to deliver the medication to your residence on campus.
Does the university insurance plan cover costs for prescriptions?
You should confer with a Health Services professional regarding the specifics of your insurance plan. Generally, if you are insured as a domestic student, the cost of prescription medications will be not covered. Students insured under the international plan do have the cost of prescription medications covered.
It's the weekend and I need information for a paper. Do you have a Web site?
The Wellness Center has an extensive Web site with information on our various services, alternative medicine, community resources, contact information and much more. In addition, there are e-links to many national organizations for health-related topics. These e-links are found by going to the resources section of our Web site.