Frequently Ask Questions
Why do I have to have immunizations to attend the U?
There have been several outbreaks of measles, mumps on college campuses in the U.S. over the past decade. Many of the non-traditional college students are not adequately immunized and those students who had a personal exemption for k-12 are also at risk on contracting the diseases.
If an outbreak occurred on campus without a requirement the University would have to close down until the risk was over, costing the University and students.
What is a nurse practitioner?
A Nurse Practitioner [NP] is a registered nurse [RN] with advanced education and training. They work independently, but in collaboration, with physicians and other medical professionals to provide you with comprehensive and holistic health care.
What can Nurse Practitioners do?
- Obtain health histories
- Perform physical assessments and examinations
- Order & interpret diagnostic/laboratory studies
- Diagnose & treat common illnesses and minor injuries
- Make referrals to specialists
- Counsel on health promotion
- Prescribe/manage medication therapy
- Provide continued/follow-up and coordinate care for both acute & chronic illnesses
Can Nurse Practitioners prescribe medications?
Yes! Nurse Practitioners have prescribing privileges in 43 states, including Utah.
What services do Nurse Practioners Provide?
- Well/sick baby care*
- Well/sick child care*
- Well/sick adult care*
- Well/sick elder care
- Family Planning*
- Health education*
- Psychological counseling
- Screening for diseases*
- Case management*
- Prenatal care
- Minor surgery*
- Diet counseling
* Services offered by NPs at the University of Utah Student Health Center
How does the quality of Nurse Practitioner care compare to that of doctors?
The care that NPs provide is very good according to numerous government and private studies. The U.S. Congress, Office of Technology Assessment says, "Nurse Practitioners provide care whose quality is equivalent to that of care provided by physicians". In fact, many people prefer NPs to MDs..
Why do I have to have immunizations to attend the U?
NONCOMPLIANCE = REGISTRATION HOLD
Students who arrive on campus inadequately immunized will be given until the second Friday of their first semester to comply with this requirement. If you have not complied by this time, a hold will be placed on your registration until the requirement has been met.
Frequently Asked Questions about Student Health Insurance
