Wellness and Health Services

Client Bill of Rights

As a client at the St. Joseph's University Student Health Services, you have the right to: 

• Understand and use these rights. If for any reason you do not understand, or you need help, the health services staff must provide assistance, including an interpreter. 
• Receive treatment without discrimination as to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, sexual orientation or source of payment. 
• The right to humane care and treatment. You will be treated with respect, consideration and dignity. 
• You can expect that your personal convictions and beliefs will be taken into account when you seek help. 
• Privacy while in the health services and confidentiality of all information and records regarding your care. 
• No care can be provided to you without your consent. 
• The right to participate in decisions that are made regarding your health care and treatment, including ethical concerns.
• Be informed of the name and position of the healthcare provider who will be in charge of your care. 
• The right to information regarding the scope and availability of services.
• Refuse treatment and be told what effect this may have on your health.
• Receive emergency care if you need it. 
• Review your medical record without charge. Obtain a copy of your medical record for which health services can charge a reasonable fee. You cannot be denied a copy solely because you cannot afford to pay.
• The right to complain about the quality of care and have a fair review of that complaint without fear of compromise of future service. 

Client Responsibilities

The student health services staff cares for the well-being of all St. Joseph’s students. We believe that to be effective, the effort must be a partnership with the patient and the healthcare team working together. You will be expected, within the limits of your abilities, to share in the responsibility for your healthcare, which are:

• Provide accurate and complete information to the best of your ability regarding your medical history including allergies, medications (prescription, over-the-counter, herbal and dietary supplements), past illnesses and hospitalizations.
• Provide accurate and complete information to the best of your ability regarding your family history. 
• Follow the treatment plan that is prescribed by your provider. 
• Keep appointments or contact health services if you need to reschedule or cancel. 
• Be respectful of all the healthcare providers, staff and other students at health services. 

The Center for Counseling and Wellness is responsible for facilitating medical leaves of absence on the Long Island campus. If a student becomes ill, either mentally or physically, or is injured in some way, they should contact our Center to discuss the possibility of taking a medical leave of absence.​

What is a medical leave of absence?

A medical leave of absence is granted to students who become ill, either physically or mentally, or injured during the course of a semester. The student is given up to two semesters to recover from his/her illness or injury without having to re-enroll at St. Joseph's University. 

What information do I need to provide?

In order to be considered for a medical leave of absence, the student must provide current and detailed medical documentation that supports the student’s request for a medical leave of absence. This documentation must be on a physician’s official letterhead or on a prescription pad. 

How do I take a medical leave?

If a student wishes to apply for a medical leave of absence, they must contact Alexandra Peraino, Assistant Director of Wellness at [email protected].

What happens with my classes if I take a medical leave?

Once all the forms have been filled out, and the medical documentation is approved, a student’s classes will reflect a WD (withdrawal) for each of their classes for the semester. This will NOT affect a student’s GPA.

What is my financial liability if I take a medical leave?

A medical leave does not mean that the student’s financial liability is eliminated. There are many variables that come into play when a student takes a medical leave. It is imperative that the student contacts the Bursar’s Office and the Financial Aid Office to discuss his/her individual financial implications.

What happens when I am ready to come back?

When a student is ready to return they must make an appointment to meet with their adviser to select their courses. The adviser will let the student know if there are any holds on his/her account which will prevent them from registering. In addition, they must contact the Financial Aid Office to ensure that all paperwork has been completed.

The Center for Counseling and Wellness is responsible for collecting and maintaining student immunization records. Prior to the first day of class, students must provide documentation that proves they have received the required immunizations. In order to maintain Department of Health compliance, the office is responsible for following up with students who do not submit their medical records. Copies of medical records can be provided to students who have graduated or are transferring. View the Immunization Records page for more information on immunization requirements and submission instructions.

Immunization Policy

Immunization Record Form

Meningococcal Vaccination Response Form

The unexpected occurrence and expense of a serious medical condition can interrupt and even end a student’s academic career. It is for this reason that all students attending St. Joseph's University should be covered by a comprehensive health insurance plan. Students living in off-campus housing at the St. George Residence and International Students are required to have health insurance.

Students can go to healthcare.gov, the Healthcare Marketplace, to find an available health plan in the state where you permanently reside. If your permanent residence is outside New York State, you should select a PPO plan that offers coverage throughout the United States. 

International students

It will be important to obtain healthcare coverage that provides protection in the United States. Below are providers that can assist you.

• PGH Global: www.pghstudent.com or at 1.888.251.6253.
• StudyUSA Healthcare: https://my.travelinsure.com/studyusa/?pcode=32701 or at 1.800.937.1387

If you need assistance or you have questions, please contact Collegiate Insurance Resources at 1.800.322.9901 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. A Customer Service representative will gladly assist you.