Healthcare in the U.S.
Health care in the U.S. is provided by many different organizations. It can be very confusing to understand how the system works and where to go for health care.
Health care is provided at:
| Doctor’s offices | |
| Hospitals | |
| Walk-in Urgent Care Centers | |
| Clinics | |
| Free-standing surgery or rehabilitation centers | |
| Radiology imaging centers | |
| Pharmacies | |
| Skilled nursing facilities | |
| And many more. |
It is a complex system to understand. The guide below is intended to help you understand the basics about health care in the U.S., how health insurance works, and the best way for WashU students to access care.
Health and Well-being Guide for Students
Types of healthcare providers
| For basic care, call a doctor’s office to schedule an appointment. There may be a wait for new patients. You should bring your translated medical records with you. | |
| Urgent care facilities have extended hours and are best utilized for minor illnesses or injuries, or when you can’t wait for an appointment at the doctor’s office. |
Experiencing a serious, life-threatening event?
on campus
- 314-935-5555 for WUPD/EST
- Use a Blue Light Emergency Telephone
off campus
- Off-Campus: 911
- Go to a hospital emergency room
mental health crisis
- Call 9-8-8
Students are automatically enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) to help offset the high cost of medical treatment and hospitalization. This occurs upon completing your registration for the first semester of each academic year. Coverage runs from August 1 to July 31.
| Spouses and dependents are strongly urged to purchase medical insurance as well. | |
| See details regarding SHIP and how to enroll dependents or add additional insurance such as vision or dental insurance You should review and completely understand the health insurance plan. | |
| You are responsible for following the regulations of the plan in order to have the best coverage and least amount of out of pocket expenses |
J-1 Exchange visitor health insurance requirement
J-1 Exchange Visitor Program regulations require that J-1 Exchange Visitors (both student and scholar) and their J-2 dependent(s) carry health insurance meeting specific minimum standards (Code of Federal Regulations – 22 CFR 62.14).
| Failure to maintain required insurance coverage can result in termination of J-1 status, violation of status and accrual of unlawful presence. | |
| Exchange visitors who are not eligible for Washington University benefits must obtain minimum, J-1 compliant insurance coverage before coming to the United States. |
Health History form and immunization requirements
New students are required to complete online forms and immunizations, including:
All health history, immunization and Tuberculosis information must be submitted via the Student Health Portal using your WUSTL Key login information.