University of Arizona Global Campus: Access and Wellness Services

The University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC) is dedicated to providing equal opportunities for all students to achieve success. This commitment is realized through the Office of Student Access and Wellness, which offers a range of services and resources designed to support students with disabilities. The office champions self-advocacy, self-determination, and an enhanced awareness of individual abilities.

Commitment to Accessibility and Inclusion

UAGC adheres to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, as amended, ensuring that no student faces discrimination based on disability. The university strives to create an inclusive environment where all students can participate fully in educational programs, services, and activities.

Requesting Accommodations

Students seeking accommodations are responsible for disclosing their disability and submitting a formal request, following university guidelines. The accommodation process is interactive, involving the student's perspective on the disability's impact, observations from Access and Wellness staff, and supporting documentation. Detailed information on documentation requirements can be found in the UAGC Academic Catalog.

It's important to note that accommodations are not applied retroactively, and the final decision on reasonable accommodations rests with the professional staff of Access and Wellness.

Documentation Guidelines

UAGC's documentation requirements align with the best practices established by the Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD). The university requires appropriate disability documentation to ensure program, service, and activity accessibility.

Addressing Concerns

Students with concerns or complaints regarding accommodations or services should contact Rachel Orlansky, Director of the Office of Student Access and Wellness, for resolution.

External Resources for Students with Disabilities

UAGC students may also benefit from state and federal programs designed to support individuals with disabilities in their educational and career pursuits.

State Department of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)

Funded by federal grants under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, state VR programs offer a range of services to eligible individuals with disabilities. These services include assessment, planning, development, and provision of VR support, tailored to the individual's strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choices. The goal of the VR program is to enable individuals with disabilities to prepare for and engage in gainful employment. These services are funded by state governments and are independent of UAGC.

Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E)

VR&E provides vocational rehabilitation services to veterans with service-related disabilities. Eligible veterans receive services aimed at achieving suitable employment that aligns with their aptitudes and interests, or achieving independence in daily living. VR&E also offers educational and vocational counseling to eligible service members, veterans, and their dependents, assisting them in selecting educational or vocational goals and identifying appropriate training institutions.

Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program (TTW)

The TTW program is a federally funded initiative designed to help people with disabilities who receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) enter or re-enter the workforce. Eligible individuals can use their "Ticket" to access employment services, vocational rehabilitation, and other support services at no cost. While UAGC is not a TTW vendor, students can participate in TTW through their State Department of Vocational Rehabilitation and choose to attend UAGC as part of their VR plan.

Promoting Awareness and Wellness in Students (PAWS)

UAGC's Student Affairs team presents PAWS (Promoting Awareness and Wellness in Students) each month. This initiative highlights various causes and cultural celebrations, reflecting the values of the university. PAWS provides opportunities for students to get involved and make a difference, fostering personal growth, academic success, career development, and a stronger connection to the UAGC community. Students can access the latest edition of PAWS on the UAGC Hub.

Health and Well-being Resources

UAGC recognizes the importance of student health and well-being and provides access to relevant information and resources.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information

UAGC closely monitors updates and guidance from federal agencies and public health organizations regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Students can find information on the virus and preventative measures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). UAGC also provides resources for managing stress and supporting children during such events. Students are encouraged to contact their Student Advisor to discuss any unique academic needs.

Affordable Care Act

The Affordable Care Act offers subsidies ("premium tax credits") to lower health insurance costs for households with incomes between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level. It also expands Medicaid programs in some states to cover adults with incomes below 138% of the federal poverty level and supports innovative medical care delivery methods to reduce healthcare costs.

Understanding Health Insurance Terminology

Navigating health insurance can be confusing. Here are some common terms:

Read also: History of the Block 'M'

Premium: The monthly payment for a health insurance policy.
Deductible: The amount you pay for medical services before your insurance starts covering costs.
Co-Insurance: The percentage of medical costs you pay after meeting your deductible, sometimes with a maximum out-of-pocket limit.
Pre-Existing Condition: A medical condition existing before your insurance policy starts.
Exclusion: A medical condition not covered by the insurance policy.
Co-Payment: A fixed amount you pay upfront for a service or medication.

Choosing a Health Insurance Plan

The cost of health insurance varies. When selecting a plan, consider the benefits offered, the deductible amount, what you'll pay for services after meeting the deductible, and the total potential out-of-pocket costs if you or a family member becomes ill.

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