Navigating BU Student Health Services: Your Essential Guide to a Healthy College Life

College is an exciting time, but it can also be a period of significant change, stress, and new health challenges. From late-night study sessions to navigating a new environment, staying healthy is crucial for academic success and overall well-being. Fortunately, Boston University offers comprehensive support through its Student Health Services (SHS). But do you know how to make the most of these valuable resources?

This comprehensive guide provides essential BU Student Health Services tips to help you navigate medical care, mental health support, and wellness programs effectively. We'll show you how to access care, understand your insurance, and proactively manage your health, ensuring you thrive during your time at BU.

Understanding BU Student Health Services

Boston University's Student Health Services (SHS) is an integrated health center dedicated to supporting the health and wellness of all BU students. Located at 881 Commonwealth Avenue, SHS provides a wide range of medical, mental health, and health promotion services.

Think of SHS as your primary healthcare hub on campus. It's staffed by board-certified physicians, nurse practitioners, and registered nurses who are committed to providing high-quality care.

Essential Tips for Accessing BU Student Health Services

Knowing how to access care efficiently is key to getting the help you need when you need it.

1. Utilize the Patient Connect Portal

The Patient Connect Portal is your secure, easy-to-use gateway to managing your healthcare at SHS. Through this online platform, you can:

• Make appointments: Schedule medical and mental health appointments conveniently.
• Send secure messages: Communicate directly with SHS staff regarding non-urgent questions or concerns.
• Manage your health information: Access your health records and view lab results.

It's a powerful tool designed to give you control over your health journey.

2. Understand Appointment Scheduling

For routine care or non-emergency situations, scheduling an appointment is generally required.

• Online: Use the Patient Connect Portal to schedule appointments for both medical and mental health services.
• By Phone: You can also call SHS directly to schedule an appointment. For primary care, call 617-353-3575. For mental health services (Behavioral Medicine), call 617-353-3569.

Important Note: Do not use Patient Connect for life-threatening emergencies. In such cases, call 911 or the SHS on-call service at 617-353-3575 immediately.

3. Navigate Your Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP)

All full-time, three-quarter time, and international undergraduate and graduate students at Boston University are automatically enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP). This is required by the state of Massachusetts to ensure you have coverage for care not provided directly by SHS.

• Waiver Option: If you have comparable health insurance coverage, you may be eligible to waive SHIP. Be sure to review the comparable coverage requirements on the SHS website and complete the waiver process by the deadline to avoid being charged.
• Coverage Details: SHIP, provided by Aetna Student Health, covers a wide range of services. Many services at SHS, including physical exams, lab tests, and immunizations, are covered with no additional cost if you have SHIP.
• Questions about SHIP? For questions about coverage rates, charges, or claims, you can send a secure message through Patient Connect, email [email protected], or call 617-353-3579.

Beyond Physical Health: Mental Health Support at BU

Your mental well-being is just as vital as your physical health, and BU offers robust support.

1. Behavioral Medicine at SHS

Boston University's Behavioral Medicine department, located within SHS, provides a range of mental health services. These include:

• Assessment and Diagnosis: Get professional evaluation for various mental health concerns.
• Brief Treatment: Access therapy and psychiatry services. Counseling services are free and confidential for eligible students, typically offering 2 to 8 sessions.
• Groups and Workshops: Participate in supportive group settings and educational workshops.
• 24/7 On-Call Service: For mental health emergencies, a 24/7 on-call service is available by calling 617-353-3569.

2. Seeking Help and Referrals

It's normal to feel stressed, overwhelmed, or to face mental health challenges during college. Don't hesitate to seek help.

• Initial Evaluation: You can schedule an initial evaluation with a Behavioral Medicine provider through Patient Connect or by calling 617-353-3569.
• Off-Campus Referrals: If longer-term care or specialized support is needed, SHS can provide referrals to community providers. They have dedicated referral coordinators who can assist in finding off-campus mental health care based on your specific needs.

Preventative Care and Wellness

Proactive health management can prevent many issues before they start.

1. Stay Up-to-Date on Health Requirements and Immunizations

BU has specific health requirements for all students, including certain immunizations and health insurance coverage. Ensure you comply with these to avoid any holds on your student account. SHS provides immunizations and can help you meet these requirements.

2. Utilize Wellness Programs and Resources

SHS emphasizes a holistic view of health, extending beyond just treating illness.

• Health Education Programs: Look for workshops and seminars on topics like healthy eating, stress management, and mindfulness.
• Wellness Workshops: BU offers various wellness initiatives, including access to mindfulness apps like Headspace and peer support networks like Terriers Connect.
• Fitness: While not directly SHS, remember to utilize BU's Fitness & Recreation Center (FitRec) for physical activity, which is crucial for overall wellness.

Navigating Specific Health Needs

SHS covers a broad spectrum of care, but some areas might require specific attention.

1. Urgent vs. Routine Care

SHS offers services for both urgent health concerns and routine care.

• Urgent Concerns: If you're sick or injured but it's not a life-threatening emergency, SHS can provide immediate care during business hours.
• Routine Care: Schedule yearly check-ups, immunizations, and other non-urgent care appointments in advance.

2. Sexual Health Services

Student Health Services provides comprehensive sexual health resources, including:

• Birth control services.
• STI testing.
• The "Condom Fairy" program.

3. Medical Referrals

If you need to see a specialist not available at SHS, they can provide medical referrals to in-network providers. For full-time students on the Charles River campus with SHIP, SHS is your primary care provider (PCP), and a referral from SHS is typically required to see an outside specialist, unless it's an emergency.

Conclusion

Navigating your health in college doesn't have to be daunting. By understanding and actively utilizing the comprehensive BU Student Health Services tips outlined above, you can ensure you have access to the medical, mental health, and wellness support you need to thrive. From understanding your insurance to knowing when and how to seek help, taking a proactive approach to your health will empower you to make the most of your Boston University experience.

What has been your experience with BU Student Health Services? Share your tips or questions in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the operating hours for BU Student Health Services?

A1: Primary Care at BU Student Health Services is typically open Monday-Wednesday and Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, and Thursday from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM. They are closed on weekends. However, a 24/7 on-call service is available for urgent concerns.

Q2: Is mental health counseling free for BU students?

A2: Yes, free and confidential counseling services are available for eligible students through Behavioral Medicine at SHS. These are typically short-term therapy, ranging from 2 to 8 sessions. For full-time students and part-time students with the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP), the cost of Behavioral Medicine services is covered.

Q3: How do I waive the BU Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP)?

A3: If you have comparable health insurance coverage, you can waive SHIP by visiting the Student Health Services website and completing the waiver process. It's crucial to do this by the specified deadline to avoid being charged.

Q4: What should I do in a mental health emergency at BU?

A4: In a mental health emergency, do not use the Patient Connect portal. Instead, immediately call the Behavioral Medicine Department at 617-353-3569 and ask to speak with a triage clinician/on-call provider. You can also call 911 or go to your nearest Emergency Room.