HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO VISIT THE HEALTH CENTER?

University Health Services charges a basic clinic visit fee for eligible students of $24 on weekdays and $30 at the Saturday Urgent Clinic during the semester. (There are also non-student fees of $50 on weekdays and $55 on Saturdays.) The basic visit fee covers clinician services, and most supplies and procedures performed. However, there are additional charges for lab work, x-rays, physical therapy, pharmacy, and ambulance service. All charges are the student's responsibility. Payment is due at the time of service and may be made by having the charge placed on the student account, or paying by cash, check, MAC or credit card (VISA or MasterCard). [more information]

WILL UHS ACCEPT MY HEALTH INSURANCE?

UHS does not direct bill insurance companies, except for students who are covered by one of the Penn State Student Health Insurance policies. All other students will be responsible for submitting the (the yellow "super bill") to their insurance company. Sometimes, these companies have follow-up questions that are easily and quickly answered by us and may prevent a delay in your reimbursement. For this reason, you will be asked to sign an authorization to allow UHS to release medical information to your insurance company. [more information]

HOW DO I MAKE AN APPOINTMENT OR TALK TO A NURSE?

It's easy to do both! To talk with a Telephone Advice Nurse 24/7, call 863-4463. Experienced nurses will help you decide if you need urgent care, a clinic appointment, or self-care. They will discuss your health concerns, such as how to deal with an injured ankle, sore throat, medication problems, emergency contraception, or gynecological needs.

UHS offers a convenient appointment system for all of your health care needs. UHS appointments are based on a triage system, so that more seriously ill students are seen first. You can make your appointment online or call 863-0774. [more information]

CAN MY PARENTS GET ACCESS TO MY MEDICAL RECORDS HERE?

All medical records are held in the strict confidence. Although this high degree of confidentiality may be a concern to parents seeking information, medical information is released only with the student's written consent, or by a court-ordered subpoena. [more information]

WILL MY PARENTS FIND OUT WHY I WAS SEEN AT THE HEALTH CENTER IF I BILL IT TO MY STUDENT ACCOUNT?

On your student account bill, only "health center charge" or a variation of that such as "health center charge - pharm" is listed. However, if you decide to submit your receipt to an insurance company for possible reimbursement, more specific information about your visit is included, and your parents may find out why you were seen at UHS.

IF I THINK I MIGHT HAVE A SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTION (STI), WHERE CAN I GO FOR HELP?

Simply call one of the appointment line numbers above to schedule a convenient time to meet with one of our clinicians. You'll be able to discuss your concerns, get an examination and have any lab tests (as recommended by the clinician) done during your appointment. Your care is CONFIDENTIAL. [more information]

HOW CAN I GET STARTED ON BIRTH CONTROL PILLS OR GET MY PRESCRIPTION RENEWED?

A routine gynecological exam is no longer required prior to starting some hormonal birth control methods.

If a non-UHS clinician provided prescription birth control, such as birth control pills, and a refill is desired through UHS, you will need to complete a health history form and briefly meet with a health care provider. At that visit, your health history will be reviewed and risks and benefits of the hormonal method you selected will be reviewed with you. In most cases, a pelvic exam will not be required in order to get a prescription for  hormonal birth control."

WHEN IS THE HEALTH CENTER OPEN?

The main clinic in Ritenour Building is open:

	Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday	8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
	Wednesdays	9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
	Saturdays	11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (during fall and spring semesters only)

I'D LIKE TO VOLUNTEER TO GET EXPERIENCE FOR MY MAJOR. WHERE DO I GO?

UHS offers numerous opportunities to become involved in a health-related student organization. It's is a great way to make friends, participate in interesting projects, gain practical experience and start building your resume! [more information]

WHAT DO THOSE INITIALS ON MY HEALTH CARE PROVIDER'S NAME BADGE MEAN?

Designations that tend to confuse people are "P.A.," "N.P.," and "D.O." You can learn more about what these initials mean, as well as meet our physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners, by visiting the Meet Our Clinicians page.