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International Studies

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Health Services

The University of Dubuque requires that all students show proof of health insurance. As you may have heard, health care in America can be very expensive, and it is important for you to have adequate health insurance.

The University of Dubuque requires that international students purchase university-approved health insurance. The cost is approximately $86 per month and you will be billed for this when you arrive on campus. Our health insurance is provided through the Lewer Agency, www.lewermark.com . The Lewer Agency specializes in international student insurance, and has been very helpful to our students in the past.

Please understand that health care in the U.S. may be different than health care in your home country. Health care in the U.S. is primarily private and can be very costly if you are uninsured or underinsured. Learning how to manage your health care in the U.S. will save you time and money. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

  • In the U.S., hospital emergency rooms are for emergencies only! Using the emergency room will always cost more---usually a lot more!
  • If you are feeling ill and feel you need to see a doctor, follow these procedures to insure the lowest cost health care:
  • First, call Debra Runkle, University Medical Coordinator (phone 589.3244). As a UD student, you can be evaluated by medical personnel with no charge depending upon the illness or injury. (If you need medications, tests, or other procedures, your insurance will cover these as described in your policy.) For the best rates and care, ALWAYS start with the University Medical Coordinator's office whenever possible.
  • If you need care after business hours, you can go to Finley Convenient Care (350 North Grandview, ER Entrance) but BE SURE to say that you are a UD student and show your student ID and your insurance card. Hours are Monday through Friday 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM and weekends and holidays 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
  • If you really cannot wait for one of these options, you can go to the emergency room at Finley Hospital, but expect to pay significantly more for this. In addition, your insurance will require a higher deductible than at the clinic.
  • Your insurance does not cover dental work or eyeglasses, unless you have some kind of accident that injures your teeth or eyes. You can purchase dental insurance or you can simply pay for your dental care on a per-visit basis. For more information contact the International Studies Office.
  • Immunization Requirements: The University of Dubuque requires you to show proof that you have been immunized against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). Other immunizations are suggested, but this is the ONLY immunization that is required. It will be much less expensive AND more convenient for you to be sure you have this required immunization before you arrive in the United States. You are required to have two (2) doses of MMR immunization.

    All students must complete an Immunization Form and file it with the Medical Services Office (Stolz Hall). You must include an official record, provided by your physician, clinic, or school to show that you have received the MMR vaccine. (You cannot just fill this in yourself! You must either have the form stamped and signed by your doctor, or you must attach a copy of your medical record.) If you do not have the MMR, it is strongly suggested that you get it BEFORE you come to the US....the immunizations will cost you about $150-$200 if you get them here, insurance does not cover them, and you will not be allowed to register for classes until you show this proof. If you do come to the US without the required immunizations, contact Debra Runkle, University Medical Coordinator (589-3244) for help in scheduling the required immunizations immediately.

    Although medical and immunization issues are handled through the Medical Services Office, the International Studies Office is always available to help you connect with this office or to help you connect with any medical or insurance information you need.