Knowing About My Health Before I Go to College

Going to College and Staying Healthy:
Knowing About My Health Before I Go to College

What do I need to do about my health before I go to college?

You may need to have a physical done by your primary care physician before you go off to college, since most colleges require them. Your clinician will make sure that your immunizations (shots and boosters) are all up-to-date. Talk to your doctor about getting the meningococcal vaccine to lessen your chance of getting the very serious infection, meningitis (inflammation of the brain tissue). Your clinician will also make sure that all of your medical records are complete. These records should include a list of all of the medications that you are taking, including its strength (how powerful it is) and its dosage (how much of it you should take). The records should also include a list of your allergies, any past medical problems (surgeries, hospital stays), and special needs (chronic health problems and disabilities). A record of any mental health problems and your family medical history should be included. You should take a copy of all of your records with you to college and keep it for yourself. Also, ask the staff at your primary care physician's office to mail a copy to the Student Health Service at your college.

You also need to make sure you have health insurance before you go to school. If you will still be on your parent's health insurance at college, take a copy of the insurance card with you. You should find out what type of plan you are on (HMO, PPO, etc), what the policy covers (especially what is covered at your Student Health Service), how to file claims, and what to do if an emergency occurs. Discuss everything with your parents and clear up any questions that you have. You should remember that your parents will likely be notified every time that the insurance company is billed if you are on their policy. Check with them on what statements from the insurance company are sent. If you are not on your parents' insurance, check on special health insurance through your college.

You should also take extras of any prescription medications that you use. You should find out the name of a pharmacy near your school and figure out how to get refills when you need them or if your parents need to mail your refills to you. Don't forget to take a bottle of multivitamins and sunscreen with you.

Check out these other College Health Guides:

First Aid Supplies to Take with Me to College

Health Services and Health Care Providers

Staying Healthy at College

Some Common Health Problems at College

Violence/Abuse in Relationships

Resources: Hotlines/Websites/Books