Your well-being is the most important factor to consider while you are abroad. It is important to evaluate your health needs as you research programs and destinations of interest to you. Investigate the host culture and the climate in the area of the program you are considering keeping in mind any conditions such as asthma and allergies. Even if a health issue is currently under control, symptoms may reappear while studying abroad. Make sure to visit your health care providers and have a conversation before you go.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
The CDC provides general traveler health guidance, as well as Destination Specific information on its website. This includes tips on what to pack, information about vaccines and medications, and travel notices about current health issues related to specific countries.
US State Department
Become familiar with and check routinely the US State Department Web Site (www.state.gov). The website contains country information and travel advisories/warnings. Also consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (https://step.state.gov/step/) to receive travel alerts and warnings. If possible, avoid entering an area covered by a State Department travel warning until it has been lifted. If already in the area when the warning is issued, use sound judgment to decide if you should remain or leave. Discuss your options with your parents and program representatives. Seek advice or assistance from U.S. Embassy or Consulate or local authorities. When possible, notify WU regarding where you are and what you intend to do. The presence of State Department travel advisories does not automatically preclude study abroad in that country or region, but advisories do prompt us to ensure that you are informed about the potential risks associated with your choices. Likewise, the absence of a travel advisory does not imply that travel to the area is not without risk.
GeoBlue Health Insurance
The policy covers Washington University enrolled undergraduate and graduate students who are temporarily engaged in sponsored or approved educational activities outside the United States.
Undergraduate students participating in study abroad semester or academic year programs administered by Arts & Sciences, Olin Business School, and Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts will be automatically roster enrolled in the GeoBlue Student policy for the duration of their study abroad.
The GeoBlue Worldwide Study Abroad Basic Accident and Sickness Insurance Plan is a comprehensive insurance plan providing $250,000 in medical coverage with no deductibles. Please note, however, that GeoBlue coverage is a supplement to the student’s existing health insurance plan. It is not valid within the United States and does not meet the University’s requirements for student health insurance. Students are encouraged to research potential health needs prior to departure through GeoBlue’s Student Portal. The portal provides lists of contracted hospitals, doctors, dentists, pharmacies and translations services by location.
Students studying abroad in an academic year or semester programs will be automatically enrolled. Students participating in WUSTL-approved summer programs will be required to enroll themselves and provide documentation of enrollment. Students participating in Washington University Faculty-led programs will be automatically enrolled. Students should refer to specific instructions provided through the study abroad application portal.
The GeoBlue Worldwide Study Abroad Basic Accident and Sickness Insurance Plan is a comprehensive insurance plan providing $250,000 in medical coverage with no deductibles. Please note, however, that GeoBlue coverage is a supplement to the student’s existing health insurance plan. It is not valid within the United States and does not meet the University’s requirements for student health insurance. Students are encouraged to research potential health needs prior to departure through GeoBlue’s Student Portal. The portal provides lists of contracted hospitals, doctors, dentists, pharmacies and translations services by location.
The GeoBlue Student Insurance charge will appear on the student’s Washington University billing statement within the academic semester. Read more on the University’s Health Insurance information on the Global website.
Please note: the GeoBlue Student policy is not a substitute for the student’s existing domestic health insurance coverage. The GeoBlue Student policy does not provide domestic (United States) coverage and does not meet the University’s requirements for student health insurance. It is a supplement to the student’s existing health insurance plan.
ISOS
International SOS Emergency Assistance Plan: All WU students are covered at no extra cost by International SOS Emergency Service Plan to provide all students, faculty, and administrators with international medical, security and travel assistance worldwide while traveling for College-related activities. Please note this is an assistance program, NOT health insurance, and is meant to be used in tandem with existing health insurance. Students may access ISOS resources by logging into the ISOS website www.internationalsos.com using WU’s membership number 11BSGC000032.
STEP PROGRAM
Sign up for the U.S. Department of State Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive travel safety advisories and enter information about your upcoming trip abroad. This is a free service provided to U.S. citizens who are traveling to, or living in, a foreign country and will enable the Department of State to better assist you in case of an emergency in the United States or host country.
FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WTH LOCAL LAWS & CUSTOMS
It is important to remember that you will be subject to the laws of your host country. An important part of the preparation process is familiarizing yourself with the local laws and customs of the country in which you will be staying. Differences in the laws and polices of host countries with those of The United States may affect several important aspects of how you prepare (for example, some medications which are legal in The United States may not be legal or may be more tightly regulated in your host country). Please review the Department of State resource for students abroad to familiarize yourself with important information.
CONSULT WITH MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS
In order to be medically prepared to participate in your study abroad program, consult with your health care providers. Visit a physician, your counselor, or a travel clinic. Make sure you have the recommended vaccinations and have researched the availability of health services in the host country. If you take any regular medications, consult with your physician and insurance company and check customs policies on prescription medication in your destination to ensure that you have access to an adequate supply for the duration of the program. Washington University Student Health Services offers care to students who are traveling abroad, including physical exams, advice, and immunizations as needed. Before you travel, schedule a travel medicine appointment to make sure you are prepared for your trip.