FAQs : Student Health Services

FAQs

Answers

Advice/Appointments

Do I need an appointment? Can't I just talk with someone?: Our Advice/Appointments staff can help you decide if you need to be seen, and then schedule an appointment for you. If you have a health or illness related question, you can visit one of our Advice Nurses on the first floor on a walk-in basis. They can give you helpful information on many injuries and illnesses if you need quick, free advice.
Can I be seen right now?: Our Advice/Appointments staff can help you decide if you need to be seen, and then schedule an appointment for you. If you have a health or illness related question, you can visit one of our Advice Nurses on the first floor on a walk-in basis. They can give you helpful information on many injuries and illnesses if you need quick, free advice.
Do I need an appointment for “ x “ - and then how do I schedule?: One of the Advice Nurses on the first floor can help you to determine if you need an appointment. An appointment can be scheduled by calling (614) 292-4321 or stop by the Advice/Appointments Area on the first floor to speak with an Appointments Associate to schedule an appointment.
Do you take walk-ins?: We don’t take walk-ins like an urgent care facility, but if we have an open spot you will be scheduled in the first available appointment. We try to accommodate same day appointments as long as a provider is available.
Can I just come in or do I need an appointment?: With the exception of laboratory services, all patients need to schedule an appointment to be seen. Call (614) 292-4321 for an appointment or to speak to an Advice Nurse.
What if I forget my appointment?: You can call Advice/Appointments (614) 292-4321 to check the time of your appointment.; If you are unable to keep your scheduled appointment, please provide us with as much notice as possible. You will be charged a $10 ‘no show fee’ for any appointment not cancelled at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled appointment time.
Is there another doctor I can see? May I request which doctor I see?: The appointments scheduling staff are happy to try to accommodate any requests you may have about the provider you are seeing. However, special requests to see a specific provider may mean a longer wait for an appointment. Please feel free to ask our staff.
I want to see a specialist, how do I do that?: You may contact a specialist directly to schedule a visit. However, some specialty offices prefer that you see a primary care office first, so that the reason for the visit is clear, and any needed preliminary test are completed. Additionally, some insurance plans require that a specialist referral start with a primary care office. OSU's Comprehensive Insurance does not require this.
How much does a visit to Student Health Service cost?: There are fees for all services performed at the Student Health Center. The cost of services depends upon the type services rendered. The Patient Accounts department may be able to supply approximate estimates of costs and may be reached at (614) 292-0113.
I haven’t had a check-up in a while, do you offer any health screening without getting a whole physical?: The Student Health Services Laboratory offers cholesterol, blood glucose, and blood pressure screenings for $18. Consider screening if you have any risk factors including, family history (parents or siblings) of high cholesterol, hypertension or diabetes.
Can I get a physical done there?: Most physicals can be scheduled here. Please call us for more information. Comprehensive Student Health Insurance & WilceCare do not cover physicals.
If I didn’t come to the student health center for care, may I still obtain a doctor’s excuse? I was too sick to come in for an appointment.: We are not able to document you were under our care when you were not seen in our facility; however, we do have an Absence Excuse (PDF) form that you can use to document your illness.
Do you offer psychiatric care in your facility?: We do not offer psychiatric care. We recommend that you speak with the Counseling and Consultation Center at (614) 292-5766. If they cannot get you scheduled quickly, they will be able to refer you to another provider..
I am an alumni, can I be seen at the Wilce Student Health Center?: At this time, we only see current Ohio State students. Your insurance company should be able to provide you with a list of primary care physicians within your area that are considered in-network and accepting new patients.

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Allergies, Immunizations, and Travel

What is the cost of vaccines, PPD, and/or titers (there are many different vaccines and titers they may be asking about)?: Contact our Patient Accounts Dept for current costs (614) 292-0113.
Do you offer TB screenings?: Yes, we offer TB screenings. Call (614) 292-4321 to schedule an appointment.
I’m traveling out of the country and I know what shots I need, do I need an appointment?: Yes, all students traveling out of the country need to schedule a Travel assessment appointment. It is recommended to schedule these appointments six weeks prior to your departure and/or at least two weeks before leaving the country. At this appointment the provider will discuss health issues and immunization recommendation/requirements for healthy travel to that country (countries). The charges for Travel appointments are not covered by Student Health Insurance or WilceCare. These are at the patient’s expense. The cost of immunizations are in addition to the travel assessment fee. We do not give vaccines for patients who have had assessments outside the Student Health Center, unless you bring written doctor's orders. Patients must bring any immunization records they have. Students that need a certificate of “good health” are required to schedule a Physical, in addition to the Travel Assessment.

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Dental

How do I make an appointment?: Call (614) 247-2378 to request an appointment to see a dentist or hygienist.
Do you charge for your services?: Yes. We are a fee-for-service clinic and charge a fee for every service provided.
Do you charge for missed appointments?: If you are unable to keep your scheduled appointment, please provide us with as much notice as possible so that we can offer the appointment to another student. You will be charged a missed appointment fee for any appointment not cancelled at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled appointment time.
Do you accept insurance?: Yes. If you are covered under the OSU Student Health Insurance Plan, your claims will be automatically processed according to the benefits to which you are entitled under your plan. If you are covered under another dental insurance plan, please stop by the Patient Registration Desk on the 1st floor or the Patient Accounts Department on the 3rd floor on or before the day of your appointment to register your insurance information.
How often should I have a cleaning?: For most patients, we recommend an examination and dental cleaning every 6 months. Some patients require more or less frequent visits depending upon each individual's oral health. Discuss your need for regular cleanings with your dental hygienist.
What can I do about a mouth ulcer?: The actual etiology or cause of mouth ulcers is unknown but in most instances stress, illness, or trauma is usually involved. They last for approximately 7-10 days. Though you can use over-the-counter creams, ointments, etc. to help with the symptoms, ulcers usually have to run their course.
Is there a treatment for sensitive teeth?: Yes. Sensitive teeth often result from exposed root surfaces due to gum recession or through loss of enamel as a result of excessive wear from clenching or grinding and/or erosion from acidic foods or acid reflux. Toothpaste for sensitive teeth will often reduce or relieve tooth sensitivity. Other treatment options include application of desensitizing agents by your dentist, prescription for self-applied fluoride agents, and/or placement of fillings. If persistent or increased sensitivity continues, further evaluation by a dentist is recommended to rule out split or cracked teeth or faulty fillings.
Why do I need to have my wisdom teeth evaluated?: To prevent acute problems with infection and dental caries as well as rule out any pathology associated with impacted wisdom teth, a thorough evaluation is necessary. Rarely is there enough room for wisdom teeth (third molars) to fully erupt and function properly in the oral cavity. Often they do partially erupt and are very difficult to brush/floss to maintain good oral hygiene which results in decay and/or gum irritation and infection. Other potential problems include the formation of cysts or tumors associated with impacted wisdon teeth. A dental exam and full-mouth x-ray (panorex) is recommended to fully evaluate each patient's condition.
My teeth and jaw hurt and sometimes I get headaches. Is this a dental problem?: It can be. There are many causes for pain in the mouth, jaws, head, and neck areas. Often clenching and/or grinding of teeth can cause these symptoms. Clinical signs often found on a dental examination reveal wear on the biting surface of teeth, clicking or popping of the TMJ upon opening, and limited opening pain. Patient symptoms vary greatly. Headaches, ear pain, tooth sensitivity, and/or pain or difficulty in jaw movement and opening are some of the symptoms reported by patients. Referred pain to the head, neck, and shoulders may also be reported. Causes and contributing factors are the good and bad stressors of everyday life, lack of sleep, and some medications. The dental clinic does offer TMJ syndrome evaluations.

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Insurance

Are you a network provider for my insurance plan?: We are not a network provider for any plan other than the Student Health Insurance. We encourage you to call your insurance company to determine how or if your plan includes out of network care and will cover you care here. If you give them our Tax ID number (31-1657245) they will be able to give you specific coverage information.; If after you speak with your insurance company, you end up wanting to use the Student Health Service, we are happy to bill your insurance company. You will need to come in and register your insurance and we will, for the next year, automatically bill your insurance company. Insurance registration must be updated each academic year.
I have already registered my dependent insurance last quarter, why do I have to do this again?: You only have to register your dependent insurance once a year to make sure the information we have stays up-to-date with your current situation.
Will the Student Health Insurance cover my care somewhere else?: The highest level of benefits under the Student Health Insurance Plan is available at the Student Health Service, College of Dentistry (Student Clinic) and College of Optometry. Care received in other facilities are subject to a co-pay and/or deductible in most cases. For more coverage and network details please consult the Student Health Insurance website.
I don’t have the student insurance, may I see a provider there?: Any registered Ohio State student is eligible to be seen at the Student Health Center regardless of their insurance carrier.
I have other insurance, but don't want a claim submitted. May I pay for my care for a certain condition myself?: Yes. Please go to the third floor central desk in Patient Accounts Department on the day you receive the care. Make sure to let the staff know you do not want the service you received on that day billed to your insurance. You may arrange payments at that time.
Do you take my insurance? Is my insurance going to pay for this?: Student Health Services does not participate as a network provider under most commercial medical & dental policies.; We encourage you to contact your insurance company prior to your appointment to find out how or if your policy will cover your care & prescriptions provided in this facility. You should also ask your insurance company if your plan includes out-of network benefits.; We are not affiliated with physician groups & medical facilities of the OSU Medical Center.; Your insurance is registered with the university, but you need to register your medical insurance with Student Health Services.
I have the comprehensive insurance, is it free for me to come in?: Most care for illnesses and injuries are covered under the Comprehensive Student Health Insurance. For a complete description of covered services please see the Student Health Insurance website.
I gave you my insurance information when I waived my Student Health Insurance to register for classes. Why do I need to give it to you again?: The information you provided the University for registration cannot be used for billing purposes. We are not permitted to release information to an insurance company without your signature giving us permission.
I’m a dependent on my spouse’s Student Health Insurance. Can I be seen there?: Only spouses who are also enrolled as students are eligible to be seen as patients in this facility. We are considered a network provider under the spouse's coverage. All services are subject to deductible and co-pay.

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Labs/X-rays

Do I have to pay for the labs performed here under Student Health Insurance?: Generally, your Student Health Insurance will cover diagnostic laboratory tests. Certain screening tests are not covered.
Do I have to pay for the x-rays performed here under Student Health Insurance?: X-rays performed for illness or injury are covered. X-rays performed for screening are not covered under the plan. If you do not have Student Health Insurance, your charges may vary according to your insurance company.
How do I get my test results?: Generally, a follow up appointment is scheduled. Otherwise, the provider will call with any important result or information.
Can I get laboratory work/X-rays done for my private doctor or my doctor at home?: Yes, our laboratory does accept outside orders. We require a written order (which may be faxed to us at (614) 247-4791) from your physician which includes his phone/fax numbers and the ICD-9 diagnosis code. Results will be faxed to his office.
Do I need to make an appointment to get laboratory tests/X-rays done?: No, we take patients on a walk-in basis.
What do I need to do for fasting blood work?: You should not have anything to eat or drink (except water) for 10-12 hours. You should not smoke or use mints or chewing gum. You should drink water in moderation (2-3 glasses) during your fast.
Is STI testing free?: A specific panel of STI screenings recommended by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) is covered once per plan year under the Comprehensive Student Health Insurance and WilceCare. Charges will be billed to other insurance companies.

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Parking

Where can I park? How do I get to the parking garage?: You can park in the parking garage under the Wilce Student Health Center. Take Tuttle Park Pl. past the stadium, towards the RPAC. You will have to stop at the booth and tell the person on shift that you are going to the Health Center. They will open the gate to give you access to 17th Ave. Take 17th Ave. to the first stop sign and turn right on Millikin Rd. The garage is located under the Wilce Student Health Center. There is a minimum $2.00 fee and a special "toke note" is required that can be obtained from the central check-in desk of the area you visited.
How do I get out of the parking lot under the building?: You will need to insert your SHS toke note and $2.00 (in bills or coins). If you use a bill larger than $1, all your change will be returned in coins. Pharmacy can provide you with change prior to leaving the Health Center. If you park in this area and have not visited SHS, the charge is $20.00.

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Pharmacy/Prescriptions

Where is the pharmacy located?: The SHS Pharmacy is located on the first floor, directly to the right of the main entrance. It is across the hall from Advice/Appointments.
If I have Student Health Insurance, may I fill my prescriptoin at another pharmacy?: There are advantages to having your prescription filled here. Our pharmacy is centrally located with easy access from the main library, RPAC, or classrooms. Our prices are competitive. If you have Student Health Insurance, you will be charged only the co-pay. At any other pharmacy, you will have to pay the full price of the prescription and submit the bill for reimbursement.; To be reimbursed for the cost of your prescription from another pharmacy, you must complete a Medical and Prescription Drug Claim form which can be obtained in our pharmacy or downloaded at shi.osu.edu. The reimbursement process takes approximately two months.
How do I transfer my prescription?: To transfer a prescription to another pharmacy, you will need to call the pharmacy where you want it filled, give them the prescription number from our bottle and the name of the drug. Ask them to call the Wilce Student Health Center Pharmacy at (614) 292-0125 to complete the transfer process.; To transfer a prescription to our pharmacy from another pharmacy, call our pharmacy at (614) 292-0125 and give them your information. Our pharmacy will call the other pharmacy and complete the transaction.
I am out of refills, what do I need to do?: The quickest way to get a refill is to call your provider's office. Sometimes your provider will request that the pharmacy fax them a refill request. Call our pharmacy at (614) 292-0125 to request this, and then call us before you come in to ensure that we have heard back from your provider's office.
Can I get a three month supply on my prescription?: Through Student Health Insurance, you are entitled to a 90-day supply of birth control, provided the 90-days do not exceed the duration of the current academic term. All other medications may be dispensed in one-month quantities.; However, we can accomodate you if you need a prescription mailed or sent to a different location. A credit card payment will be required for the co-pay and shipping charges.
Will you match the $4 prescription offer from Giant Eagle, Kroger, etc.?: No, we do not currently match their prescription costs.
How long will my prescription take?: The time for prescriptions can vary, but it usually takes 15-20 minutes.
Where can I fill this prescription?: There are advantages to having your prescription filled here. Our pharmacy is centrally-located with easy access from the library, RPAC, or classrooms. Our prices are competitive. If you have Student Health Insurance, you will be charged only the copay. At any other pharmacy, you will have to pay the full price of the prescription and submit the bill for reimbursement.
I need a refill on my medicine. Do I need to schedule an appointment for that?: Yes, you need to schedule an appointment, provided you are seeing a provider at the Health Center. Keep in mind you that you may not be able to get in the same day. Schedule an appointment before you run out of medicine.
I need a prescription for ADD/ADHD. Can I get that here?: Prescriptions for ADD/ADHD can be written here. Students must have documented diagnosis ADD/ADHD, with written reports of recent psychological testing on file at the Student Health Services. Patients may be required to sign a medication contract.; If you have never had formal testing or are unable to provide documentation, you need to arrange for appropriate testing, which may take up to three months to complete. You may wish to contact the Office of Disability Services at Pomerene Hall (614) 292-3307 or Counseling and Consultation Services at the Younkin Success Center (614) 292-5726.
What if I’m a student at an OSU regional campus? What should I do about getting my prescriptions?: We can mail any prescriptions to you since you are a student at a regional campus. We would just take your address and a form of payment when you call the Pharmacy at (614) 292-0125.

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Privacy/Records Requests

Why can't I get a copy of my records on the day of the request?: The Wilce Student Health Center treats hundreds of patients daily. This results in many requests for copies of medical records. We fulfill these requests on a first come, first served basis.
Why can't you send my information via e-mail?: Due to privacy and security risks involved with releasing medical records, even encrypted e-mail isn't the safest way to send health information.
I have an appointment with my family physican in my hometown in 2 days. Is the turn-around time still 7-10 business days?: The Wilce Student Health Center understands the importance of sharing health information to provide uninterrupted care and to reduce healthcare costs. Please state the date of your medical appointment upon request, and we will make your needs a priority.
Do my parents have the right to obtain my health information?: No. You can be assured that your health information is strictly confidential. Your health information is not available to anyone, including parents, professors, and friends, without your written authorization or by a court-ordered subpoena.
May I request that all of my health information be released to my parents until I graduate?: Authorizations cannot be given prior to treatment. Blanket authorizations to parents/guardians are not valid unless the patient has a chronic medical problem that requires extended treatment. The authorization must state the diagnosis/condition permitted to be released and will be reviewed by the Medical Director for medical necessity. This type of authorization will expire one year from date of signature.

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Physical Therapy/Athletic Training

How much does physical therapy cost?: It depends on the injury, diagnosis and provider's orders. After the initial evaluation at a cost of $103 you will have a better idea of what the cost for treatment will be. Usually costs range from $40-$125 per visit.
How often do I need to schedule therapy appointments?: After the initial evaluation you will have a better idea of how many appointments will be necessary.
What is the Student Health Insurance physical therapy benefit?: The Student Health Insurance covers an initial $750 (available only in the Health Center) and an additional $750 with a 10% co-pay (subject to a plan deductible). WilceCare includes a benefit for $750.
May I see a Sports Medicine Physician without going to another provider first?: Yes, you may see a Sports Medicine Physician without seeing another provider first. The Physical Therapy/Athletic Training/Sports Medicine department is located on the third floor in the Wilce Student Health Center.
What type of sports injuries do you treat?: We treat acute and chronic conditions when referring to all joints (ankle, knee, shoulder, etc). We treat pre and post surgical cases.

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Student Health Services

Student Menu

FAQs

Advice/Appointments

Allergies, Immunizations, and Travel

Dental

Insurance

Labs/X-rays

Parking

Pharmacy/Prescriptions

Privacy/Records Requests

Physical Therapy/Athletic Training

Answers

Advice/Appointments

Allergies, Immunizations, and Travel

Dental

Insurance

Labs/X-rays

Parking

Pharmacy/Prescriptions

Privacy/Records Requests

Physical Therapy/Athletic Training

Associations