Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine offers a comprehensive medical plan for all full-time graduate students. This plan is based around Student Health Services.
Student Health Services is located in Room 3420 of the East Building, 4525 Scott Ave., and is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, with walk-ins accepted until 3:30 p.m. The primary care physician is Karen Winters, MD. Depending on your problem, you will probably not meet with her right away. You will first be seen by a nurse practitioner, and if you need a more detailed check-up, you will see Dr. Winters. You can get an appointment with a doctor within 24 hours, depending on the problem you have. It is critical to call ahead, as there are many students using Student Health Services, so walk-ins are discouraged. Also, you will be charged $20 if you miss any scheduled appointment with a Student Health Services physician without notice. If you are 7 minutes late, you will be considered a “no-show,” and you will be charged accordingly.
If you urgently need to contact Dr. Winters, you can call the after-hours number at (314) 362-3526 and leave a voice mail. This service is available 5 to 9 p.m. Monday-Friday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. If you are experiencing an emergency, you should go to the Barnes-Jewish Hospital Emergency Department immediately; you do not need to call this number.
Another important time to visit the doctor is when you are planning to travel overseas. As soon as travel plans are finalized, check if you need any vaccines.
Mental health is an extremely important component of any healthcare system. Although Wash U does a great job of mitigating the stresses of grad school with a variety of social events and support networks, Student Health also understands that the road to a Ph.D. can be a stressful one. As such, WUSM student health offers extensive mental health services to support students through a variety of avenues. WIUSM offers a variety of confidential services such as group and individual counseling, crisis counseling, and more. The initial assessment is free, and subsequent visits require a $10 copay.
You do not need a referral from Student Heath to see a psychologist or counselor, but you do need a referral for a psychiatrist. For more information on the mental health options, visit the WUSM student health website.
The benefits and coverage afforded by the Student Health plan are in full compliance with the Minimum Essential Coverage mandate of the Affordable Care Act. All students are automatically enrolled in this plan, the details of which which are summarized in this document and detailed here.
For the purposes of the student, Student Health Services functions like an HMO, so we can obtain diagnostic tests, physical therapy, maternity care and other benefits with referrals from Dr. Winters. Student Health Services is the place to go for your yearly TB and pap tests, allergy shots, flu shots and travel counseling. They also have a full-service pharmacy. Visits for medical care are covered by our health plan, as are most prescriptions. Call 24 hours in advance for prescription refills. Co-pays range from $5 to $35 for common medications such as those for allergy, dermatology and birth control.
Coverage is also available for dependents (spouse, domestic partner, child) of students who otherwise do not have access to coverage through work or school. For more information on cost, eligibility, and enrollment, visit the website.