Navigating Student Health Services at the University of Miami
The University of Miami prioritizes the well-being of its students, offering a comprehensive Student Health Service designed to support their healthcare needs. For new students especially, understanding the available resources, locations, and online platforms can initially seem overwhelming. This article aims to provide a clear guide to navigating UM's Student Health Services effectively.
Location and Accessibility
Student Health Services are conveniently located in the Lennar Foundation Medical Center on the Coral Gables campus. This central location ensures easy access for students seeking medical care. The Lennar Medical Center is marked on the Coral Gables campus map, making it simple to locate.
Eligibility and Services Offered
All students who have paid the Health and Counseling Centers Fee are eligible to receive care at the Student Health Service. At the Student Health Center, students can receive primary care clinical services and routine lab testing free of charge.
Making the Most of MyUHealth
MyUHealth is the university’s online platform designed to connect students with their healthcare provider and provide access to their medical records. On UHealth, students can make appointments, see test results, submit documentation, track their health, and fill in family health history and medications. Students can access their MyUHealthChart after paying their admission fee. The menu page is visible to students logged on to MyUHealthChart.
Understanding Wait Times
Student Health Services can experience peak activity times mid-day and late afternoon, especially on Mondays and Fridays, which may lead to longer wait times. Scheduling appointments ahead of time can significantly reduce wait times. Junior Ryann Miller noted, “When I’ve scheduled ahead of time with student health I don’t think I’ve ever waited more than five minutes to be seen.”
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Health Insurance Requirements
Domestic students enrolled in six or more credit hours per semester (or considered full-time) are required to obtain adequate health insurance (see exceptions). The annual premium for the health insurance plan offered through the University is added to each student's fees. Domestic students with adequate alternative coverage may request cancellation of the insurance fee. New students with Out-of-State HMO/EPO coverage must have coverage beyond urgent and emergency care in Florida to be eligible to waive the insurance. Domestic students can check the status of their insurance waiver/cancellation request via CaneLink. The insurance premium will be prorated for those students entering for the first time in the Spring or Summer semesters. The deadline for reinstatement of insurance is October 10th for Fall and March 6th for the Spring semester. Please do not consider your reinstatement complete until reinstatement has been verified via CaneLink.
All international students are required to enroll in the University-sponsored health insurance program regardless of credit load. International students who are residing outside of the United States are not eligible for the Student Health Insurance Plan. International students sponsored by their embassy must waive the Student Health Insurance Plan because coverage is provided by the sponsoring embassy. Optional coverage for dependents can be requested at the time the student is first able to enroll in the plan (within 14 days of the start of the semester) or due to a qualifying life event. Renewal of dependent coverage is the responsibility of the student. Enrollment and payment are directly through United Healthcare Student Resources. Students in J-1 status are required to purchase insurance for their dependents.
Immunization Requirements
All students are required to provide proof of immunization against measles, mumps, and rubella; tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis; and meningitis ACWY. All new students must also provide proof of immunization against hepatitis B or sign a waiver declining these immunizations. Deadlines for submission of immunization records are Fall - July 25, Spring - January 15, and Summer - April 15. Failure to comply with this requirement will interfere with registration. Most students will be able to obtain the required immunization information from their prior medical providers or from their prior high school, college, or university. Students who believe that they were previously immunized but are unable to provide proof of immunization may either obtain blood tests confirming immunity or obtain the necessary immunizations. Immunizations and blood tests documenting immunity are available at the Student Health Service.
Important Contact Information and After-Hours Care
Students can find more information by calling 305-284-9100 or visiting studenthealth.studentaffairs.miami.edu. The Health Service is closed on Saturdays and University holidays. For sudden, severe illness, or serious accidents, dial 911. For illnesses or injuries requiring immediate attention, students are urged to go to an emergency room. After-hours assistance for urgent situations can be obtained by dialing 305-284-9100.
Additional Recommendations for International Students
It is also recommended that you bring with you an extra pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses and your prescription. If you take regular medications, it is advised that you bring a large enough supply, if possible, to cover your intended stay in the United States.
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Understanding Fees
Employees may be charged the Health and Counseling Centers fee on their initial bill, however, the charge will be removed from their bill soon after the last day to drop or add a class if they remain eligible for tuition remission benefits.
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