University of South Alabama Student Health Services: A Comprehensive Guide

The University of South Alabama (USA) is committed to the well-being of its students, recognizing that their health is paramount to their academic success and overall development. This commitment is reflected in the comprehensive services offered by the Student Health Center (SHC), an on-campus healthcare clinic dedicated to providing efficient and cost-effective care relevant to the needs of the University community.

Mission and Scope of Services

The mission of the Student Health Center (SHC) at the University of South Alabama is to provide efficient and cost-effective healthcare services relevant to the needs of the University Community. The services offered in the Student Health Center are the same as in any physician’s private practice. The SHC provides treatment for a variety of medical conditions as well as physical examinations, sports medicine, immunizations, women’s health, psychiatry, sexual assault services and health education.

The SHC is staffed with fully licensed professional healthcare providers who specialize in providing services to the college age population. Laboratory testing is offered in the clinic and by reference laboratory to assist in properly diagnosing and treating students. Same Day / Work-In Appointments Available.

Insurance and Eligibility

All currently enrolled students are eligible for treatment in the SHC. The SHC accepts and processes claims for most major insurance carriers along with Alabama Medicaid. We strongly recommend that all students have health insurance.

Students are required to be covered by health insurance throughout medical school. Group coverage is available through Student Health. Students without coverage will not be allowed to register or continue their studies, and may be required to take a leave until proof of current coverage is provided. A copy of the student’s current health insurance card must be submitted to the Office of Student Records upon registration.

Immunization Requirements for Medical Students

To ensure the health and safety of the student body and the wider community, the USA College of Medicine has strict immunization requirements for all medical students. These requirements are designed to prevent the spread of easily preventable diseases. All students’ files are reviewed for completeness and placed in the students’ files if complete after admission to school, but prior to matriculation.

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)

All students must have received two doses of live measles vaccine prior to their matriculation. At least one dose of the vaccine should have been administered after 15 months of age. Alternatively, students can provide laboratory evidence of immunity through a positive Measles, Mumps, and Rubella antibodies titer. Pregnancy is a contraindication to this vaccine.

Rubella

Pregnancy is a contraindication to this vaccine.

Polio

Students must provide documentation of a complete series of Polio vaccine or a Polio titer determined within five years of the beginning of the academic year.

Hepatitis B

All students must be immunized against infection from hepatitis B virus.

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Tuberculosis (TB) Screening

Annual screening for tuberculosis is required for all students in the College prior to November of each year. The SHC provides TB skin tests for students for a nominal fee. Any student with a positive TB test will be required to submit documentation from his/her physician that the student is not contagious. They will also be counseled about INH treatment. Students can contact the Associate Dean of Student Affairs if they need more time to complete the series.

Student Health Center's Role in the Broader USA Health System

The Student Health Center is an integral part of the USA Health system, which plays a significant role in the healthcare landscape of the Gulf Coast region. USA Health is an academic health system committed to helping people lead longer, better lives. It delivers healthcare excellence through education, research and patient care. With more than 190,000 patient visits each year, USA Health offers access to innovative medicine and experiences for the next generation of healthcare providers and scientists.

The USA Health system includes:

USA Health University Hospital: A center that provides care from injury to recovery.
USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital: Providing specialized care in pediatric and women's health.
USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute: Combining cutting-edge research with advanced care, the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute fights cancer from the laboratory bench to the patient’s bedside. It is the region’s only academic cancer research and treatment facility on the Gulf Coast.

USA Health also provides medical education training to more than 240 residents and fellows and works in collaboration with local community physicians. The Residents of the Gulf Coast are healthier thanks to the USA College of Medicine.

HIV/HBV Exposure Policy

The University of South Alabama adheres to the guidelines and regulations set forth by the state of Alabama regarding the management of students with confirmed positive HIV or HBV status who are involved in direct patient care.

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Alabama Law Regarding AIDS

The Alabama law regarding AIDS, specifically Act No. 87-845, outlines the procedures and protocols to be followed in cases of potential exposure. Key provisions of the law include:

Reporting Requirements: Any physician who diagnoses a patient with HIV or HBV is required to report the case to the Division of Infection Control within 30 days of the time he or she is aware of his or her infection. The report must include information as to how he or she can be contacted.
Confidentiality: The law emphasizes the importance of maintaining patient confidentiality and outlines the circumstances under which disclosure of HIV/HBV status is permitted.
Infection Control: Healthcare providers are expected to adhere to strict infection control practices to minimize the risk of transmission.
Monitoring and Recommendations: Students with HIV/HBV will be appropriately monitored in all healthcare settings. The University will follow guidelines and recommendations for disinfection and sterilization of medical devices to pose no risk of transmitting HIV or HBV to patients.

Any questions with regard to such Act, you may contact Dr. at 434 Monroe Street, Montgomery, Alabama, 36130-3017.

Education and Prevention

Beyond providing treatment for illnesses and injuries, the SHC is committed to promoting health education and preventative care. The SHC actively engages in health education initiatives, addressing topics such as sexual health, mental health, substance abuse prevention, and healthy lifestyle choices. These initiatives aim to empower students to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

M3 orientation includes information on the reporting mechanisms, timeliness of testing, and treatment, as well as the testing and reporting process. Should be billed to the student’s health insurance company.

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