Navigating Health and Wellness Resources at Boston University
Boston University prioritizes the well-being of its students, offering a comprehensive network of resources to support their physical and mental health. This article provides an overview of the key services available, from Student Health Services to disability support and recreational facilities.
Student Health Services (SHS): Your First Stop for Healthcare
Boston University Student Health Services (SHS) serves as the primary on-campus resource for student physical and mental health needs. Located at 881 Commonwealth Avenue, SHS is open Monday through Friday. It offers a wide array of services designed to address both urgent and routine healthcare requirements. Visiting summer students might be charged a $25 fee per visit. Additional costs may apply for medical supplies or immunizations.
Primary Care (PC) Services
SHS Primary Care (PC) provides care for urgent medical issues. These include respiratory symptoms, injuries, and sexual health concerns. For non-urgent or routine care, SHS can assist in connecting students with community healthcare providers covered by their insurance plans.
Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)
SHS Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) addresses the mental health concerns of the student community. The CAPS team includes psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical nurse specialists, licensed mental health clinicians, and licensed clinical social workers. CAPS offers support for a wide range of mental health issues. For longer-term care, CAPS can facilitate referrals to experienced community clinicians. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 617-353-3569.
Commitment to Inclusive Care
Student Health Services (SHS) is committed to providing high-quality care, inclusive of people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions.
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Laboratory Injury Protocol
It is important to seek treatment promptly for any laboratory injury or exposure. If the injury or exposure does not require immediate transport for emergency care, PhD students should contact the University’s Research Occupational Health Program at 617-414-ROHP (7647), or report to 72 E. ROHP provides medical attention and coordinates aftercare at ROHP for laboratory injuries and exposures without any cost to PhD students. If immediate emergency care is needed, or if follow-up care is needed outside of BU, students’ individual health insurance will provide primary coverage for medical expenses. A pilot program offered by the Office of the Provost may cover up to $2,500 for out-of-pocket expenses or copays associated with the injury. BU’s Henry M.
Immunization Requirements
Massachusetts law mandates that all full-time and international students studying on campus must be immunized against certain communicable diseases. Compliance with these immunization requirements is essential for students to remain in good standing with the University. Students must provide proof of vaccination, including the dates of each immunization, from their healthcare provider. Once registered for Summer Term, students will receive instructions on how to upload their vaccination records to BU’s Patient Connect portal. Students who do not meet BU’s immunization requirements upon arrival will have 7 days to receive the necessary vaccinations.
Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) for International Students
All international students enrolled during the summer are required to have medical insurance. They are automatically enrolled in and charged for Boston University’s Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) as part of their registration. Students may waive enrollment in the SHIP if they are enrolled in a comparable US-based insurance plan that 1) meets the coverage requirements and 2) is underwritten in the US. It’s crucial to verify that an insurance plan is underwritten in the U.S., as having offices or being based in the U.S. does not guarantee this. Students who register for the Summer 1 session or for both the Summer 1 and Summer 2 sessions are charged for enrollment in the Basic-level plan for the full summer coverage period of May 17-August 14.
Disability & Access Services (DAS): Ensuring Equal Access
Boston University is committed to ensuring that students with disabilities have equal access to all opportunities the University has to offer. Disability & Access Services (DAS) provides services and support to ensure that students can access and participate in the opportunities available at BU. Students are expected and encouraged to utilize the resources of DAS to the degree they determine necessary.
Support Services and Accommodations
Students with disabilities are encouraged to contact DAS to discuss support services and accommodations they may need. These may include assistive technology, classroom modifications, and exam accommodations. It is advisable to start the process early and meet with DAS remotely if necessary to ensure that accommodations are in place before the start of the program. Accommodations are provided on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the individual’s diagnosis and documented needs.
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Consultation Services
Disability & Access Services also consults with University stakeholders regarding architectural, programmatic, digital, or communication access. It is important to note that DAS does not diagnose or treat medical or mental health conditions.
Fitness & Recreation Center (FitRec): Wellness and Recreation Opportunities
BU’s Fitness & Recreation Center (FitRec) is the place to go for a wide range of summer wellness and recreation opportunities. These include outdoor activities such as sailing and kayaking, aquatics classes for all ages, fitness offerings designed for everyone, and much more.
Facilities and Activities
With approximately 270,000 square feet of space, FitRec features an 18,000-square-foot weight and cardio room, two separate swimming pools, two multi-use gymnasiums with seven courts, an elevated 1/7 mile jogging track, racquetball and squash courts, and a 30-foot climbing wall. There is even a lazy river-a relaxing way to escape the heat on a summer afternoon. FitRec privileges also extend to sailing on the Charles River, as well as indoor and outdoor tennis courts. FitRec is located at 915 Commonwealth Avenue.
Membership Eligibility
BU students and those enrolled in summer programs at BU are eligible for a FitRec membership. Students participating in Summer Term Pre-College programs must be at least 16 years of age to purchase a membership for FitRec.
Additional Resources and Information
As a BU graduate or professional student, you have access to a variety of resources to help take care of your physical health. Knowing where to go - and understanding what’s available - isn’t always easy. Student Health Services is the University’s health center. When you are not feeling well, Student Health Services is the place to go.
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Student Health Services (SHS) is an integrated health center supporting Boston University students' health and wellness. It provides up-to-date student medical compliance statuses as needed and as required to the Office of the Registrar and the State of Massachusetts Health Services. A BU login account is required to access functionality on the Faculty/Staff Link (departments and staff). Certain distributed administrative functions may require additional training from central administration or the department.
Health and Wellness Initiatives
Boston University actively promotes health literacy and provides resources to reduce the risk of illness. Initiatives include collaborations between Student Health Services and former classmates to enhance healthcare literacy. Experts like BU Chief Health Officer Judy Platt offer guidance on reducing the risk of getting sick and what to do if you become ill. Additionally, BU experts Matthew Lally and Sarah Voorhees provide advice on self-protection strategies. Furthermore, Sargent students share their experiences and struggles, helping to create support groups on campus and highlighting resources available for eating disorders.
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