Medical Services

The College Health Services provides medical care on an outpatient basis to all students. Health Services is staffed by one part-time family physician and by several nurses. Professional services are free, but charges are made for most medications. Students whose illness requires hospitalization will be taken to Reid Hospital in Richmond. Consent for treatment is implied when students register at Earlham; parents will be notified when a student is threatened with a serious illness.

We encourage you to take an active role in staying well by practicing good nutrition, getting adequate rest and sleep, exercising, and continuing to take any medications that support your physical and emotional well-being.

Insurance

Due to the high cost of health care in the United States (a regular doctor's visit $70-150, a visit to a hospital emergency room $1500+) most U.S. citizens rely on medical insurance to help cover these costs. A serious accident or injury for international students can be financially devastating and can lead to the end of an academic career. All students attending Earlham are required to have health insurance. Students must participate in the Earlham health insurance plan if they do not have equal or better insurance that covers them while in the U.S.

Typically insurance in the U.S. covers only a portion of medical expenses and you are responsible for paying the balance directly to your health care provider. Earlham's current plan covers 80% (in network) or 60% (out-of-network) of basic medical expenses up to $100,000 a year. There is an annual deductible of $100. The 2012-2013 fee for one full year is $853.00. You will be automatically billed in the fall for insurance, unless you can provide proof of equal or better coverage within the U.S. Eyeglasses and dental work are not covered by Earlham student insurance.

Medications

If you currently take a prescribed medication ask your doctor to translate the name into English and to provide its Latin compound. This will allow you to continue to take the most similar medication while you are in the U.S.

Immunizations

You are required to have your immunizations for Diphtheria, Tetanus, Measles, Mumps, and Rubella up to date. You may not be permitted to enroll in classes if you have not had these immunizations. You will receive more detailed information from Health Services. Please read this information carefully, arrange to have the immunizations prior to your arrival and bring all relevant documentation with you if you are unable to submit it in advance.

Cultural Adjustment and Your Health

The Health Services staff can also assist with physical and emotional changes involved in cultural adjustment. For example:

Some Physical Changes:

• Stomach pain
• Headaches
• Fatigue or being tired
• Lack of concentration
• Change in appetite (more or less hungry)
• Change in sleep patterns

Some Emotional Changes:

• Loneliness, missing family and friends
• Feelings of isolation
• Homesickness
• Tension
• Nervousness and worry
• Fear of failure

If you begin to notice any of these changes in yourself, first remember that this is a normal part of an adjustment cycle. Try some of the following suggestions and then if the problem persists or changes are severe, consult an International Student Adviser, Health Services, or the Counseling Center.

Some tips:

• Spend time in a place that is comfortable for you, a place where you can relax and be yourself.
• If you feel overwhelmed, take a break, assess what is to be done and establish a list of priorities.
• Make sure to get enough rest and proper nutrition. Establish a regular sleeping and eating pattern.
• Exercise.
• Share your feelings with a friend or with an International Student Adviser. Chances are they have experienced similar changes in the past.