Health Care

University Requirements
All international students at Fairfield University are required to have appropriate health insurance. Appropriate health insurance will meet the following minimum requirements:

• Medical benefits of at least $50,000 per accident or illness,
• Repatriation of remains in the amount of $7,500,
• Expenses associated with medical evaluation of the exchange visitor to his/her country in the amount of $10,000,
• A deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness,
• Insurance provider must have a United States claims address.

When you arrive on campus, your insurance will be evaluated by the Health Center (on-campus medical facilities). If you don't have appropriate medical insurance, you Must purchase insurance through the Fairfield University international student plan.

Every student living on campus or purchasing the University insurance plan must complete the Fairfield University Medical Form and file it with the Health Center. On this form will be your medical history and proof of immunizations. All students born after January 1, 1957, are required, under Connecticut law, to provide documentation of the following immunizations:

• Current Tetanus/Diphtheria booster (within past 10 years)
• Two doses of vaccine against Measles (one must be after 1969 and first birthday, second one must be after 1980) or Titer showing seropositivity
• One dose of vaccine against Rubella (must be after first birthday) OR Titer showing seropositivity
• PPD skin test

It is in your best interest to have your physical examination done by your own physician, before you arrive in the United States. Once you arrive, the cost of a physical exam would be approximately $150. If you don't have the immunizations necessary by the time you arrive on campus you will not be able to register for classes or move-in to campus housing. These immunizations can be received at the Health Center.

Health Center
The Health Center assists students in staying healthy by promoting healthy lifestyles and competent medical care of common health problems. The staff includes 24-hour nursing care, a part-time physician, and a nurse practitioner. The doctor is available by appointment, Monday through Friday. To verify the hours that the doctor is available or for further Health Center information, you can access the Health Center's web site.

All enrolled students are eligible to use the Fairfield University Student Health Center, which operates as an outpatient clinic. Most medical problems can be treated at the Center, but when necessary, students are referred to specialists. There is no charge for students to see a clinician. Medications and medical supplies are dispensed to students at a nominal charge, when prescribed by the Health Center. Some laboratory tests are also performed at the Center for a small cost. Students are responsible for all fees and expenses rendered outside the Health Center, such as X-ray work, most lab work, and specialist's fees.

American Healthcare System
One major cultural difference you might encounter while in the United States is that hospital emergency rooms are used only if strictly necessary. This is for two main reasons: it is very expensive, and it is better to consult a doctor who is aware of your medical history.

Unlike some countries, healthcare in the United States is mostly provided by private doctors, dentists, and hospitals. Consequently, the costs of healthcare are very high when compared to most countries. To avoid very large medical bills, it is very important for Fairfield University students to have appropriate medical insurance.

Important Phone Numbers
Fire: 911
Police: 911
Ambulance: 911
Poison Control: 1-800-382-9097