Comprehensive Guide to Rutgers Student Health Services

Rutgers University is committed to supporting the holistic well-being of its students. Recognizing that academic success is intertwined with physical and mental health, Rutgers offers a comprehensive suite of health services designed to address the diverse needs of its student population. This article provides an overview of the resources available to Rutgers students, encompassing medical care, mental health support, wellness programs, and resources for addressing violence and harassment.

Student Health Services (SHS)

Student Health Services (SHS) is a division of the Department of Family Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, at Rutgers Health Sciences Campus at Newark. SHS plays a vital role in providing accessible and affordable healthcare to students. Staffed by board-certified family physicians, SHS offers a broad range of services for both physical and mental health concerns. All physician services provided by SHS are free of charge, ensuring that students can seek medical attention without financial barriers.

It's important to note that while physician services are free, some immunizations may carry an "at cost" fee depending on your insurance plan. Additionally, laboratory, radiology, and specialist services are provided within the guidelines of the Student Health Insurance Plan. Students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the details of their insurance coverage to understand the extent of their benefits.

Mental Health and Counseling Services

Rutgers understands that the college experience can be both exciting and challenging, often accompanied by stressors and pressures related to academics, relationships, and personal growth. To support students' mental well-being, the university offers a range of counseling and support services.

The Student Wellness Program (SWP)

The Student Wellness Program (SWP) is a free and confidential counseling service designed to help students deal effectively with stressors and pressures related to school, as well as personal problems that may affect their well-being, their home lives and/or their academic performance. This program provides a safe and supportive environment for students to explore their concerns and develop coping strategies.

Uwill Teletherapy

Recognizing the importance of accessible mental health care, Rutgers partners with Uwill to offer students free, immediate access to teletherapy through an easy-to-use online platform. This service allows students to connect with licensed therapists from the comfort of their own space, eliminating barriers related to transportation and scheduling. To schedule a session, students can choose a therapist based on their preferences, including issue, gender, language, and ethnicity, ensuring a personalized and culturally sensitive experience.

Peer Support

Rutgers also fosters a sense of community and support through peer support programs. These initiatives allow students to connect with one another and share their experiences, creating a network of understanding and encouragement. Peer support can be a valuable resource for students navigating the challenges of college life, providing a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of isolation.

Initiatives Fostering Belonging and Well-being

Rutgers is actively working to create a campus environment where all students feel valued, respected, and supported. Several initiatives are in place to promote belonging and well-being across the university.

The Joy at School Mini-Grant Program

The Joy at School Mini-Grant Program is a new initiative that invites Rutgers Health students to propose creative, student-led projects that promote belonging within their school. The first year’s theme, Cultivating a Sense of Belonging, emphasizes the importance of creating environments where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. This program empowers students to take an active role in shaping their campus community and fostering a culture of inclusivity.

Comprehensive Program Suite

Rutgers offers an ever-growing suite of programs designed to support every aspect of student well-being. These programs address a wide range of needs, from academic support to stress management to healthy lifestyle choices. Students are encouraged to explore the available resources and take advantage of the programs that align with their individual goals and needs.

Read also: ACT Requirements for Rutgers

Resources for Addressing Violence and Harassment

Rutgers University is committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all members of its community. The university has established resources and policies to address issues of sexual violence, dating violence, stalking, and harassment.

The VPVA Resource

The VPVA is a free and confidential resource that provides services regarding sexual violence, dating violence, stalking, and harassment for the RBHS community. This resource offers support, advocacy, and information to students who have experienced these forms of violence.

The Title IX Office

The Title IX Office is a division under the RBHS Office of Academic and Student Affairs. This office is responsible for ensuring compliance with Title IX, a federal law that prohibits discrimination based on sex in education programs and activities. The Title IX Office investigates reports of sexual harassment and sexual violence and works to prevent and address these issues on campus.

Academic Support Services at RSDM

The Rutgers School of Dental Medicine (RSDM) offers several academic support services to enhance student success.

RSDM Advising Program

The RSDM advising program was established to increase student retention and performance. Through trained faculty advisors who serve as resources to students experiencing academic or adjustment difficulties and complement the overall academic advising process, RSDM offers advising to students.

Tutorial Assistance

Tutorial assistance is the interception component of our academic support systems. The tutoring system is designed to assist all students. Tutoring is offered in didactic and pre-clinical technique courses at regularly scheduled times during the semester. Tutorials are provided by upperclassmen who have been selected by the course director as qualified to tutor in a specific discipline.

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