Staying Healthy Away From Home
Sore throats, sprained ankles, and pesky wisdom teeth are as common among college students as homesickness. And who has time to hightail it home to the family doctor when you get sick?

With this in mind, universities have created health centers that act as mini-hospitals, staffed with doctors, nurses, and dentists ready to tend to your needs. Check out your student orientation packet or your school's website to find out more information about the health center and where it's located.

Insurance Plans
What about insurance? Some schools require all students to have nonemergency health care insurance. In these cases, the school usually offers a low-cost insurance plan that can be paid for at the time of registration and used worldwide. These plans often cover basic health care and injuries sustained in intercollegiate or club sports as well.

At other schools, however, health insurance is optional and not necessary to receive treatment at the health center. But there is a charge for medical services.

In any case, before you go to school, be aware if your school requires health insurance and discuss with your parents what kind of health insurance, if any, you have.

Emergency Care
Knowing about the health insurance you carry or the location of the health center isn't all you need to stay well, however. You might need to get a prescription filled, or you might become injured and need emergency treatment.

Upon arrival at school, check to see if your health center offers 24-hour medical attention. If not, make a point to learn how to access emergency medical care through a local emergency department or urgent care clinic. Write this information and any important phone numbers somewhere you can easily find them if necessary.

You should also find a pharmacy. Although some schools offer a pharmacy on campus, other students may need to venture off campus to find one. Don't wait until you're sick to go searching!

Prevention Tips
It's great to be prepared if you get sick, but better yet, how can you prevent getting sick in the first place? The usual measures apply - stay out of the way of sneezes and wash your hands frequently. But in college, you have to think about community bathrooms, shared computer terminals, and cramped living quarters, all of which make germs way too happy.

In shared shower stalls, you'll want to guard against warts and athlete's foot by wearing sandals in the shower and drying your feet well afterward. If you spend time in the school computer labs, it's a good idea to carry some antibacterial hand lotion in your backpack. When your roommate gets sick, don't pick up any used tissues left laying around, and use a germ-fighting solvent to occasionally wipe down shared things like doorknobs, telephone receivers, and remote controls. Don't underestimate the power of eating well and getting a good night's sleep. As always, the best defense is a good offense.

Reviewed by: Mary L. Gavin, MD
Date reviewed: June 2002
Originally reviewed by: Jonathan Schneider, DO