Medical Resources

At Duke University, we prioritize the health and well-being of our travelers. Access to medical resources and support while traveling is essential to ensure a safe and successful experience. This page provides important information on the medical services and resources available to Duke University students, faculty, and staff during their time abroad.

Health and Travel Preparation for Going Abroad

Preparing for travel-related health concerns is essential to ensure a safe and healthy journey. Here are some important considerations:

- - Vaccinations: Different destinations may have specific vaccination requirements or recommendations. It is essential to check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) websites for the most up-to-date information on recommended vaccinations for your destination.

- - Preventive Measures: Research and familiarize yourself with destination-specific health risks and preventive measures. This may include information on insect-borne diseases, food and water safety, and general hygiene practices.

For comprehensive guidance and personalized recommendations, we encourage you to visit the International Travel Clinic at our Student Health Center or consult with your healthcare provider.

International Travel with Medications

If you take any medications, it’s important to plan ahead to ensure you have an adequate supply for your entire trip. Follow these guidelines:

1. Carry in Original Packaging: Keep your medications in their original packaging. This helps identify them and provides essential information.

2. Carry in Carry-On Luggage: Keep your medications with you in your carry-on luggage. This ensures they are easily accessible and not at risk of getting lost or delayed with checked baggage.

3. Carry Prescription or Note: Bring a copy of your prescription or a note from your healthcare provider that includes the medication names, dosages, and your name. This can be useful in case of any inquiries or if you need to refill your prescription abroad.

4. Check Legal Requirements: Before traveling, contact ISOS and/or consult the International Narcotics Control Board’s website to ensure your medications are legal in your destination. Be aware of any additional documentation that may be required to enter the country with your medications.

Taking these steps will help ensure you have a smooth experience with your medications while traveling. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the appropriate resources for guidance.

Health Insurance Requirements for International Travel

Maintaining personal health insurance coverage is a requirement for all Duke University travelers during their time abroad. Adequate health insurance ensures access to necessary medical care and protects against unexpected healthcare expenses. Here are some important points to consider:

Personal Health Insurance Requirement: As a Duke University traveler, it is important to maintain personal health insurance coverage that extends to your international travels. Contact your health insurance provider to understand the coverage details and any specific requirements or limitations for international travel.

Note: The Duke Student Health Insurance Program (SHIP) extends to international travels.

For further information or inquiries regarding health insurance coverage, please reach out to the appropriate department or office responsible for managing health insurance matters.

On-Campus Health Services

Duke University offers a range of on-campus health services to cater to the medical needs of our community. These services include:

Student Health Center: Our Student Health Center provides comprehensive medical care, including primary care, urgent care, immunizations, and screenings. It is the first point of contact for non-emergency health concerns.
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): CAPS offers confidential counseling services to support the mental health and well-being of students. While CAPS clinicians cannot provide therapy to individuals outside the state of North Carolina, they can provide initial support and help connect students to appropriate resources.
International Travel Clinic: For students planning to travel abroad, our Student Health Center operates the International Travel Clinic. The clinic offers travel health exams and vaccinations for students who have paid the Student Health Fee. It is crucial to visit the clinic well in advance of your travel dates as certain vaccinations may require multiple doses over several weeks.

To access these services, schedule appointments, or gather more information, please refer to the contact details provided on the respective service’s webpage.

Additional Resources

In addition to the on-campus medical services and support, there are several external resources that may be valuable during your travels. These resources include:

Travel Health Resources and Websites: There are numerous online resources dedicated to travel health and safety. These websites offer valuable information on destination-specific health risks, vaccinations, and preventive measures. We recommend exploring trusted websites such as the CDC and WHO for reliable and up-to-date information.
Health and Safety Guidelines for Specific Destinations: Some countries or regions may have unique health considerations. It is essential to familiarize yourself with any specific health guidelines, requirements, or recommendations provided by local authorities or the host institution.
Local Medical Facilities and Services: Researching and identifying local medical facilities and services in your destination can be beneficial. In case of non-emergency medical needs, having the contact information and location details of nearby healthcare providers can help facilitate prompt care.
Other Support Services: Apart from medical resources, there may be additional support services available to Duke University travelers. These services could include language assistance, cultural orientation, or emergency hotlines. Reach out to the appropriate department or program for information on such services.

Please note that the availability and details of external resources may vary depending on your destination. It is recommended to research and gather information specific to your travel location.

Remember, well-being and health are our priorities. We encourage you to plan and prepare for any potential medical needs during your travels. If you have any questions or require further assistance, please reach out to oghs@duke.edu for support.