Submit health forms

Submit Health Forms

Overview

Before you set foot on campus, your college needs health records: immunization status, health insurance information, TB screening, meningitis vaccine. Colleges are strict about this-incomplete health forms can prevent you from enrolling or moving into the dorm. June is the time to gather these documents and submit them. Procrastinating to August = medical office chaos (everyone's doing the same thing).

Action Steps

1. Access Your College's Health Portal

   • Log into student portal; find "Health Services" or "Student Health"
   • Download health form (usually PDF or online submission form)
   • Review required documents checklist
   • Set reminder: Submit by June 30

2. Immunization Records

   • Gather proof of: measles/mumps/rubella (MMR), tetanus/diphtheria (Tdap), meningitis vaccine
   • Source: Pediatrician's office, school nurse records, or patient portal on your doctor's website
   • Form of proof: Original shot records, letter on clinic letterhead, or electronic records
   • Request copies now; offices get backlogged in summer
   • Timeline: Allow 1 week to get records from doctor

3. Health Insurance Information

   • Parent's health insurance policy number, group number, provider name
   • Many colleges use this info to coordinate care
   • Have insurance card nearby when submitting form
   • If uninsured: College may require enrollment in their student health insurance plan (fee added to tuition)

4. TB Screening

   • Some colleges require TB skin test (Mantoux test) or chest X-ray
   • If required: Schedule appointment at your doctor or urgent care in June
   • Results usually ready within 1 week
   • Negative result = submit documentation; positive result = follow-up chest X-ray needed
   • Usually very low risk in US; routine precaution

5. Meningitis Vaccine

   • Most colleges require at least one meningitis vaccine (Menactra or Bexsero)
   • Schedule vaccine appointment now; vaccines take time to schedule
   • Medicare covers; private insurance usually covers; cash cost ~$100-$150 if uninsured
   • Vaccine is quick; side effects minimal (sore arm common)
   • Proof: Immunization record from your doctor

6. Other Potential Requirements

   • COVID-19 vaccination: Check college's policy (varies widely)
   • Varicella (chickenpox): If not documented, you may need vaccine
   • Other requirements: Check your college's specific health requirements
   • Most colleges list a checklist; complete everything on it

7. Submit Forms

   • Option A: Online portal submission (upload photos of forms or PDF)
   • Option B: Mailed forms (print, sign, mail to college health center)
   • Both require: Your name, ID number, date of birth, signature
   • Keep a copy for your records
   • Email confirmation usually sent; check spam folder if not received

8. Follow-Up

   • After submitting, allow 1-2 weeks for review
   • College will email if anything is missing
   • Respond to any follow-up requests immediately
   • Ask: "Are my health records complete and on file?" before move-in

Pro Tips

• Start gathering records in early June; don't wait until late June (offices are slammed)
• If your doctor's office drags their feet, escalate to the office manager or ask for patient portal access
• Bring your completed form to your doctor's appointment so they can sign and date it on the spot

Key Dates

• Gather records: Early June (week 1)
• Schedule vaccines/TB test: Mid-June (week 2)
• Submit forms: By June 30 (latest)
• College deadline: Usually July 15 (but earlier submission safer)

Red Flag

Missing health forms can prevent enrollment or dorm move-in. Don't procrastinate on this.