Services
Outpatient Medical Services
The Health Center provides physician and nursing care for the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic medical illnesses and injuries. Services provided in medicine, gynecology, and orthopedics are covered by the Health Fee. Aftercare of illnesses that need hospitalization is also provided. In addition, allergy shots, influenza vaccines, and traveler’s medications are administered during medical office hours. Students who are concerned about HIV infections or other sexually transmitted diseases, substance use, or who have other concerns, should speak with a Health Center physician or nurse practitioner. Hepatitis B vaccine is available, at cost, upon request. Universal Hepatitis B vaccination will be required for incoming freshmen beginning in the year 2002 and there after. Meningococcal vaccine is also available through the Health Center at cost to the student.
Medical History
In the course of medical care, a student may be asked her or his medical or sexual history. These questions include information about previous illness, family history, allergies, menstrual history, alcohol or drug use, eating habits, and sexual activity. If any of this information changes during your time at Brandeis, please inform one of the health care providers at the time of a visit so your record can be updated. Some of this information is sensitive in nature. It can have clinical significance and inquiries about these subjects should never be considered judgmental. If you are curious about any questions asked at a visit please ask the nurse or physician for clarification.
Confidentiality
All medical records are private and confidential. It is Brandeis University and the Health Center policy, as well as state law, that no medical information will be released to any party without written consent of the student. With your consent, the Health Center personnel may release pertinent information that may be required for the filing of a claim to insurance companies or other third party payers. Of course, in case of an emergency, or when required by law, next of kin or appropriate authorities may be notified by a member of the Health Center staff
Laboratory Tests
The Health Center does not operate a clinical medical laboratory. However. blood and other specimens can be collected there if needed. A University designated laboratory performs specimen analysis. The costs of these outpatient tests are not covered by the Health Center Fee. Students, sponsors or insurers are billed directly by the laboratory.
Resources Off Campus
The Health Center has consultants available in all medical and dental specialties. Most hold both clinical and teaching appointments at one or more of the three medical schools and 16 university teaching hospitals in Boston. Students are ordinarily referred to the consultant’s office. Part of the costs of consultations with specialist physicians outside the Health Center are covered for students who have the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP), but only when the consultation is requested by a Health Center physician and a referral is written.
Hospitalization
The Newton Wellesley Hospital is a premier community teaching hospital offering medical, surgical, and specialty care, 24 hour emergency services and a pediatric emergency department.
Pharmacy
The Health Center does not operate a pharmacy. Students needing prescription drugs are given prescriptions that may be filled at local pharmacies in Waltham:
- Eaton Apothecary, 9 Hope Avenue, Waltham 781-894-5400, will deliver prescriptions for students to pick-up at the Health Center during office hours. Cash, valid credit-card, debit card or personal check is needed for delivery. The fees for prescription and non-prescription drugs are the responsibility of the student but may be covered by some insurance plans.
- CVS 894 Main Street, Waltham 781-894-1600. Student is responsible to pick up their own medication.
International Travel
International travel information, including required and recommended immunizations and medications, is available at the Health Center. Call 6-3677 to set up an appointment with a physician to talk about your trip and the necessary immunizations. Most insurance plans do not cover the cost of most travel immunizations. We recommend that you call your insurance plan to verify coverage.
These services can also be obtained at other facilities.
- U.S. Public Health Service Station at Logan Airport in Boston, at (617) 568-6500
- Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Boston, MA (617) 632-7740
- Dr Leonard Marcus Wellesley, MA(617) 527-4003
- New England Medical Center Boston, MA(617) 636-2847
- Mass General Hospital Boston, MA(617) 724-1934
Travel information website.
Concerns
The Health Center is interested in providing the best care possible. If you feel you are not being treated properly or fairly, you should discuss this first with the physician or nurse involved. If you are not comfortable speaking with the provider, you may make an appointment to speak with the Medical Director, Debra Poaster M.D, or Nursing Director, Kathleen Maloney RN, CNP. You may also make an appointment to see Jean Eddy, Vice President for Students and Enrollment or Richard P. Sawyer, Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Student Life. Written concerns may be sent to the Medical Director, Brandeis University Health Center, MS 034.