When you come to the United States to study or when you move to any new place, you will find many changes - a new place, a new climate, a new culture, new food, new people to meet, and a new and possibly different education system. All of these changes can cause stress and affect your health. Therefore, it is important to take care of yourself, including your physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

In the United States every person is responsible for paying his or her own health care. One visit to a doctor can easily cost $160.00- $250.00 dollars. Medicine is also expensive unless you have insurance that helps you pay for it. Insurance companies usually pay part or all of the cost of doctors, so they make health care less expensive for you if you get sick. This is why health insurance is so important in the U.S. At St. Mary's, international students are required to purchase insurance through the University to ensure that you will be able to receive medical treatment when you need it. You will receive an identification card for the insurance, which you should always carry with you in your wallet.

Insurance policies can often be difficult to understand, even for native English speakers, but you should read it so you know what the insurance pays and what you must pay. The policy will be mailed to you with your identification card and can also be found the insurance company website. If you have any questions about the insurance policy, contact the staff at the Student Health Center.

The worst possible time to learn all about your health insurance is when you are sick! Save yourself time and frustration when you are sick, and learn about your health insurance now! 

Required Immunizations: Certain immunizations are required for all international students. We recommend that you receive the required immunizations, if available, in your home country prior to arrival in the U.S. Immunizations are generally cheaper (or free) in your home country, and you may be too busy when you arrive to get them here.

The Student Health Center has nurse practitioners and a physician on staff. They are very friendly and offer many services for students. Most services are covered by the health insurance and will not cost you any fees. However, you must pay for medical tests (for example blood tests) and medicine. You do not need to bring money when you go there. Any fees will be charged to your school account.