George Mason University Student Health Services: A Comprehensive Guide
Navigating university life involves more than just academics. Maintaining your health and well-being is crucial for success. George Mason University (GMU) Student Health Services (SHS) offers a range of resources to support students' physical and mental health needs. This article provides a detailed overview of the services offered, immunization requirements, insurance options, and other essential information for Mason students.
Introduction
George Mason University is glad to welcome its students and provides comprehensive health services to support their well-being during their academic journey. Student Health Services (SHS) offers accessible and affordable healthcare in a caring and confidential environment. All currently enrolled Mason students are eligible to receive confidential health care. This article serves as a guide to understanding and utilizing the resources available through Student Health Services.
Accessing Student Health Services
All currently enrolled Mason students can receive services at Student Health Services clinics. SHS provides diagnosis and treatment of illness and minor injuries and health and wellness counseling. Services are available by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, students can call 703-993-2831 during open hours or schedule online through the Patient Portal. Both virtual video telehealth and in-person appointments are available.
There is no charge to be seen by a provider. However, fees may apply for supplies, immunizations, medications, lab tests, certain procedures, and some services. Prescriptions can be filled at a local pharmacy.
If you call and are experiencing illness, have symptoms, or a health concern, you can speak with a nurse who can give advice and will schedule your appointment as needed. It may not be possible to address many different concerns adequately at one visit.
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In case of emergencies, the 911 Emergency Rescue system can be called at any time to give on-site treatment or transport to local hospitals.
After-Hours Assistance
Students have access to a free nurse advice phone service when Student Health is closed. By calling 703-993-2831 and following the phone prompts, students can speak with a nurse about their health concerns. Notice: the after-hours nurse advice service is provided by CareNet Health.
Immunization Requirements
All newly admitted or newly re-enrolled students and students who have changed to on-campus students are required to submit the George Mason Certificate of Immunization form. A parent/legal representative signature is required for a minor (a student under age 18 at the time classes begin). A minor consent must be on file at Student Health Services to receive most health services.
Students must complete their sections of the George Mason Certificate of Immunization form, and a healthcare provider must transcribe (complete & sign) the remaining sections. The Certificate of Immunization outlines all immunization requirements. Students are responsible for ensuring immunization records are submitted and complete by the deadline.
The following immunizations are required:
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- Tuberculosis (TB): Tuberculosis (TB) screening is required for all students.
- Hepatitis B: Students are required to submit proof of vaccination or immunity against Hepatitis B disease OR they must sign a waiver.
- Meningococcal: Meningococcal Conjugate vaccine administered between the ages of 16-21 OR submit a signed waiver.
- Tetanus/Diphtheria: Must submit proof of Tetanus/diphtheria containing vaccination (Td or Tdap) within the last 10 years. Recommend Tdap vaccine if not documented.
If a student is not able to provide appropriate documentation, immunizations and/or titers are available for a fee. Once records are submitted and a student has been notified of a missing immunization, they can call the Immunization Office at 703-993-2135 to schedule an appointment for needed immunizations.
Student Health Insurance
George Mason University makes health insurance available to eligible students through Aetna Student Health. The Student Health Insurance Plan has been developed especially for Mason students, however, individual students might benefit from other policies.
Eligible students can enroll in the Student Health Insurance Plan during Open Enrollment periods. Students enrolled in the plan can also enroll eligible dependents. Domestic & international students and dependents can enroll online during fall and spring open enrollment. The vision plan is included in the student health insurance plan purchase.
Students already on the university Student Health Insurance should be aware that their insurance will terminate by the end of the health insurance term upon graduation.
Services Provided
Student Health Services offers a wide variety of services to keep George Mason students healthy, including:
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- Diagnosis and treatment of illness and minor injuries.
- Health and wellness counseling.
- Immunizations (for a fee if documentation is not provided).
- Lab tests (fees apply).
- Prescription assistance.
- Allergy shots (available until the end of the month in which a student graduates).
Our doctors, nurse practitioners, and nurses have experience treating students for a variety of health concerns.
Important Information for Graduating Students
Congratulations to all Mason Graduates! As you prepare to graduate, keep the following in mind regarding your health records and prescriptions:
- Immunization record: Download a copy of your immunization record from the Patient Portal. This is an important part of your medical record.
- Medical records: Download any visit summaries or lab results from Student Health from the Patient Portal or request a copy of your medical record to take to your new healthcare provider.
- Prescriptions: Request copies of your current prescriptions or make requests for any refills before graduation.
- Allergy shots: You may receive allergy shots until the end of the month in which you graduate.
- University Student Health Insurance: If you are currently on the university Student Health Insurance, your insurance will terminate by the end of the health insurance term.
Preparing for Your Visit
To make the most of your visit to Student Health Services, remember to:
- Bring your medications and prescriptions.
- Know the names of your medicines and understand what each of your medications are for.
Additional Resources
Student Health can help you learn how to manage your health care and discuss healthy choices.
Important Dates to Remember
Upcoming office closures: Nov. 26-28, Dec. 22, 2025 - Jan. 4, 2026, Jan.
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