Your Guide to the UCF Health Center for Students: Staying Healthy on Campus

College life is an exciting journey, but it also comes with its unique set of challenges, including managing your health away from home. Have you ever wondered where to turn for medical care, mental health support, or even a quick prescription refill right on campus? The UCF Health Center for Students is your essential resource, designed specifically to keep Knights healthy, happy, and thriving.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the UCF Health Center, from its wide array of services to how you can easily access the care you need. Let's ensure your health is one less thing to worry about so you can focus on what truly matters: your academic success and overall well-being.

What is the UCF Health Center for Students?

The UCF Health Center, officially known as Student Health Services (SHS), is a cornerstone of student well-being at the University of Central Florida. Its mission is to provide accessible, affordable, and high-quality primary and specialty care services to help students maintain optimum health. Located conveniently on the Main Campus near the Libra residence halls and behind the Chemistry building, it's a hub for all your health needs. Satellite clinics are also available at the Rosen, Health Sciences (Lake Nona), and Downtown campuses, ensuring broad accessibility for all UCF students.

Comprehensive Services Offered at the UCF Health Center

The UCF Health Center for Students offers a diverse range of services, truly making it a one-stop shop for student health. From routine check-ups to specialized treatments, they've got you covered.

Medical Services

The Health Center provides a variety of primary care services. Your primary care consultation and evaluation by health providers are covered by the health fee included in your tuition, meaning no out-of-pocket charge for general office visits.

These services include:

• General Health Care: For common illnesses and injuries.
• Gynecological Care: Essential services for women's health.
• Immunizations: Staying up-to-date on vaccinations is crucial for campus health.
• Stress Management: Resources to help navigate the pressures of student life.
• Specialty Care: The center also offers specialty services like Sports Medicine, Dietitian services, and Physical Therapy.
• International Health & Travel Clinic: For students planning to study abroad or those from international backgrounds.

Mental Health Services

Recognizing the unique mental health challenges students face, UCF provides robust support through Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) and psychiatry services. CAPS offers a wide range of free mental health services to undergraduate and graduate students, including single, solution-focused sessions, short-term individual and relationship counseling, group therapy, and crisis services. The onset of mental health issues often occurs in individuals between 18 and 24, making these services particularly vital for the student body.

• Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): Free and confidential services for crisis intervention and comprehensive psychological support. You can schedule online, by phone, or even utilize same-day drop-in services.
• Psychiatry Services: Psychiatric evaluation and care for mental health conditions are available at the Health Center, often requiring a referral.
• After-Hours Crisis Line: Available 24/7 to connect students with a licensed therapist.

Pharmacy Services

The UCF Pharmacy, located on the first floor of the Health Center, is a state-of-the-art facility offering convenience and discounted prices for fee-paying, enrolled UCF students.

• Discount Prescriptions: Students can often get prescriptions at a reduced cost.
• Over-the-Counter (OTC) Drugs: A selection of common OTC medications is available.
• Convenience Store: Beyond medications, the pharmacy also carries food, drinks, and personal care products.
• ADHD Medication Note: It's important to be aware that the SHS pharmacy sometimes faces inventory challenges with ADHD medications due to demand and quotas.

Dental Center

Yes, the UCF Health Center also houses a Dental Center on its second floor, providing quality and affordable dental care. Services include exams, cleaning, fillings, bridges, crowns, and urgent care.

How to Access Services and Make Appointments

Navigating healthcare can sometimes feel complicated, but the UCF Health Center aims to make it as straightforward as possible for students.

Scheduling an Appointment

Appointments are highly recommended to minimize wait times.

• By Phone: You can call 407-823-2701 to schedule an appointment.
• In Person: Stop by the Health Center and schedule with an appointments clerk.
• Online Patient Portal: While not all appointment types are available for online scheduling, the patient portal allows access to scheduling, lab results, and messages from your provider. If your desired appointment type isn't listed online, you should call to schedule.
• Walk-ins: Walk-in students will be assessed by a Nurse Facilitator to determine their need and may be seen the same day if availability permits, or scheduled for a return visit.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

If it's your first time at the clinic, complete the Health History form online in the Patient Portal before your appointment. Always bring your UCF student ID and any relevant insurance information.

Understanding Costs and Insurance

While the health fee included in your tuition covers primary care office visits, additional services and materials are either billed to your insurance or can be paid for with low self-pay prices.

• Services Not Covered by Health Fee: These may include clinical procedures, X-rays, laboratory services, medical equipment, prescriptions, non-prescription medications, vaccinations, dental services, and physical therapy.
• Insurance: The UCF Pharmacy accepts over 100 different prescription insurance plans. For medical services, UCF Health Student Health Services primary care providers are in-network participants for various plans, including Florida Blue (PPO & Blue Options), United Healthcare, AvMED, Aetna, Cigna PPO, and Tricare plans. It's crucial to note that most HMO plans are not accepted. For specific questions about insurance, billing, or payments, you can visit the Business Office on the first floor of the Health Center or call them directly.
• Payments: All out-of-pocket expenses determined by your health insurer are due at the time of service. Unpaid balances can lead to holds on your account, potentially delaying class registration or graduation.

Benefits of Using the UCF Health Center

Why should the UCF Health Center be your go-to for health needs?

• Convenience: Located right on campus and with satellite clinics, it's easily accessible amidst your busy student schedule.
• Affordability: The student health fee covers primary care visits, making essential care more affordable.
• Student-Centric Care: Services are designed with students' unique needs in mind, from managing academic stress to addressing common young adult health concerns.
• Comprehensive Services: From physical health to mental well-being and pharmacy needs, a wide array of services are available under one roof.
• Experienced Professionals: The center is staffed with highly skilled healthcare professionals committed to providing high standards of care.

Important Information & Tips for Students

• Hours of Operation: The Health Center is typically open Monday-Friday, with specific hours that may vary, and Saturday hours are available. Always check their official website for the most current hours, especially during holidays.
• After-Hours Care: Currently enrolled UCF students have access to a free After Hours Nurse Help Line for clinical assessments when the Health Center is closed. For emergencies, always call 911 or UCF Police Department at 407-823-5555.
• Proactive Health: Don't wait until you're seriously ill. Utilize the UCF Health Center for preventive care, immunizations, and general check-ups to stay ahead of potential health issues.

Conclusion

The UCF Health Center for Students is an invaluable resource, providing comprehensive, accessible, and student-focused healthcare right on campus. From primary medical care and mental health support to pharmacy and dental services, it's designed to help you navigate the challenges of student life with confidence and good health. Prioritizing your well-being is key to a successful academic journey and a fulfilling college experience.

Don't let health concerns derail your studies or enjoyment of UCF. Take advantage of the incredible services available to you. Explore the UCF Health Center's website or give them a call to learn more and take charge of your health today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the UCF Health Center free for students?

The health fee included in your tuition covers primary care office visits with a health care provider at no out-of-pocket charge. However, you are financially responsible for other services like clinical procedures, X-rays, lab tests, prescriptions, vaccinations, and specialty visits.

Do I need health insurance to use the UCF Health Center?

While not required to access their services, UCF and Student Health Services strongly encourage all students to carry some form of health insurance coverage. The Health Center participates with several major insurance plans for medical services, and the pharmacy accepts many prescription plans.

What mental health services are available, and are they free?

Yes, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers a wide range of free mental health services to all UCF undergraduate and graduate students, including individual and group counseling, and crisis services. Psychiatry services are also available, often requiring a referral.

What should I do if I have a medical emergency after hours?

For medical emergencies, always call 911 immediately or contact the UCF Police Department at 407-823-5555. Currently enrolled students also have access to a free After Hours Nurse Help Line for clinical assessments when the Health Center is closed.