FAQs

I am an incoming first year student; what do I need to know about the Office of Health Services?

First-year students will want to browse the website for complete information on Bellarmine Health Services.

Some important steps to take:

• If you are a new first-year, graduate, or transfer student, please upload your vaccination record here. Bellarmine University requires all students, faculty and staff to have up-to-date vaccinations. This requirement applies to all undergraduates and graduates, both full- and part-time students. Learn more on our Vaccination Records page.
• If you are not yet 18, you cannot be seen in our clinic unless your parents or legal guardian have signed a consent form (Parental Consent Form ).
• For your privacy and in keeping with FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Acts) guidelines, your parents cannot call to make your appointment for you, nor can we provide them with any of your medical information without your written consent (Consent to Release Medical Records form).

What are the hours and location of the Office of Health Services and Clinic?

The Office of Health Services is conveniently located in Newman Hall 121. Our entrance is in between the Kennedy/Newman side and the Environmental Sciences side. We have one patient spot, reserved mainly for commuters, in the Merton Lot. 

The office is generally open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the academic year. During the summer, we are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Fridays. 

Though the office is open during normal business hours listed above, Clinic appointment hours vary each semester due to Nurse Practitioner availability. Please click here for current semester hours.

Do I need to have health insurance? Does Bellarmine offer health insurance?

We strongly recommend that all students have health insurance coverage, but Bellarmine does not require it. Bellarmine does not offer health insurance plans and refers students to this link for options: www.healthcare.gov. 

If I am a graduate or part-time student, can I use Health Services?

Yes. All Health Services are available to all enrolled students, regardless of status.

If I see the Nurse Practitioner, is the visit free?

Yes, this is a FREE service offered by Bellarmine. Much of the testing we offer such as Strep, Flu, Mono, UTI, pregnancy, and blood sugar are FREE, as well as any over-the-counter medication or supplies (such as bandages, wraps, or suture removal kits) provided to you are also FREE. Any lab work that is sent out on your behalf will be charged to you or your insurance. We will collect your information at the time the labs are sent and the bill will be mailed to you or to your insurance by the lab. Please see below for charged services that are billed to you.

Which services require payment in the Clinic?

Bellarmine strives to keep costs as low as possible for the convenience of students that need these services for their program requirements and for their healthcare. Charges are designed to cover only the cost of the service, not for profit. Payment is required for the following at the time of service:

• Allergy shot administration
• Vaccinations (call to inquire about available vaccinations)
• TB screening
• CPR courses
  

Often we will also provide the estimated costs of these services at other locations in an effort to help you find the best price. We accept most payment types. Please call 502.272.8313 for current pricing information. We cannot charge your insurance or put the cost for any services on your Bellarmine account.

Will the Clinic release a copy of my medical records to a third party, such as my parents or primary care provider?

Yes, but you must provide consent in writing if you are over 18. Students who wish to have a copy of their medical records released must complete a Consent to Release Medical Records form. Please read the document closely. The Office of Health Services adheres to all HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and FERPA regulations.

Can I see the Nurse Practitioner today?

We will do our best to see you! For your convenience, the Nurse Practitioners see students by appointment during the fall and spring semesters; however, the NPs are not available during summer and winter breaks. You may schedule an appointment through our Patient Portal or call 502.272.8313. If there are openings, you may schedule for the current day, or call us directly to see how we can help you if you need immediate assistance. 

Through a generous grant from Norton Healthcare, students can also get immediate assistance from a Nurse Practitioner from their home or residence hall through FREE Norton eCare video visits.

Can I have my prescription filled through the Office of Health Services?  

The Office of Health Services does not have an outpatient pharmacy, but we do offer a variety of common over-the-counter medications for your symptoms FREE of charge. For your convenience, nearby pharmacy information can be found here. Any cost of medications prescribed by a Nurse Practitioner during a clinic appointment is the responsibility of the patient. If you would to have your descriptions delivered to campus for FREE, visit Medical Arts Pharmacy site.

I am from out of state. How can I get my monthly medication prescription filled?

Speak to your primary care provider and pharmacist about how to fill prescriptions out of state. In some instances our NPs may be able to help. Nearby pharmacy information may be found here. Don’t hesitate to call us directly at 502.272.8313 if you need further assistance with your prescription.

Does the Office of Health Services provided the flu vaccine? 

Yes. Every fall we schedule flu shot blitzes at various locations around campus. Please call 502.272.8313 or email us at  healthservices@bellarmine.edu for dates, times, and locations of flu blitzes.

What tests can be performed during my appointment?  

A number of tests may be performed, at the Nurse Practitioners’ discretion. They are FREE of charge and include:

• Urinalysis
• Strep 
• Mono 
• Flu 
• Pregnancy 
• Blood Sugar
  
• COVID-19 Antigen
  

At the current time, we do not complete lab orders for outside providers. Please utilize our Nearby Medical Facilities and Referrals page to locate a lab to complete the necessary services you require.

Can I receive allergy injections through Bellarmine Health Services?

Yes, we offer allergy injections for a charge of $20 per semester to cover supplies with an order from your allergist. Students should email Nurse Alice at mkimble@bellarmine.edu for more details and to schedule an appointment.

What do I do after hours and on weekends if I am sick?

Through a generous donation from Norton Healthcare, students have access to FREE Norton eCare video visits available 24/7/365. This service allows students to receive quick, non-urgent care free from their home or residence hall. A few examples of conditions seen in video visits include allergies, cold, flu, fever, insect bite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, red eye, skin rash, sore throat and urinary tract infection. If you need advanced care, visit our Nearby Medical Facilities page for a list that includes clinics and hospitals.

Do my parents need to know that I have used the Office of Health Services?

We respect your confidentiality and will not share your information, or even that you used our services. Kentucky law states that individuals aged 18 and older are legal adults. If you want to share information about your medical health services at Bellarmine, you must complete and sign our Consent to Release Medical Records form. 

I’m a parent. How do I get information about my sick child?

In an emergency, parents of a student will be called immediately by the emergency room physician or university officials. Otherwise, students need to have completed and signed a Consent to Release Medical Records form in order for our staff to release information about them to anyone, including parents. Please review our Parent FAQs below for more information for parents.

How do I know if my immunization record has been received and is complete?

Please allow a five working day turnaround time for your immunization records to be processed. If your records are incomplete, you will receive an email stating what you are missing and further instructions as to how to ensure your compliance. 

What services are offered during the summer?

The Clinic is closed during the summer; however, the office is open and the Registered Nurse is available limited hours for allergy shots, suture removal, over-the-counter medications, minor injuries and immunizations. Please call 502.272.8313 to ensure the RN is available before coming in. There are also CPR courses offered throughout the summer, as well as the occasional blitzes for TB and Physicals as needed.

Can I get a physical in the clinic?

Yes, physicals are FREE with a Clinic appointment and require an hour to complete. Physicals cannot be scheduled through the Patient Portal. You must call 502.272.8313 to schedule your appointment. If labs are required for your physical, we will collect your information at the time the labs are sent and the bill will be mailed to you or to your insurance by the lab. They will be sent to Quest Diagnostics. You will be responsible for any charges your insurance does not cover. If you schedule a physical, you must bring the following:

• Form provided by the agency or program requiring the physical (programs may have different requirements for physicals, so be sure to bring YOUR department’s form).
• Insurance card
• Immunization record
  

How will I know when my lab results are in?

You will receive a call from one of our providers when your results are in. Our Nurse Practitioners are here part time, so please allow sufficient time for them to contact you.

If I don’t have a car and need health care off-campus, can transportation to another medical facility be provided?

Usually students are able to get a ride from a friend or roommate. If this is not possible, we can provide cab vouchers to students for medical care or procuring medication only. The cab company keeps careful records; anyone found to be using the voucher for anything besides healthcare is responsible for the charges.

What items are available for me to check-out?

We have crutches available for check-out, and on a case by case basis can allow students to check out a blood sugar meter. We also have slings, ankle and wrist braces, disposable thermometers, ice and heat packs, small sharps boxes, and ace bandages free of charge. Used sharps boxes should be returned to Health Services for proper disposal. 

Can I get a referral for a specialist, dental or vision care, or other healthcare provider off campus? 

You may call Norton Physician Referral at 502.629.1234 for help connecting to a physician of any kind in our community. They will help to match neighborhood, type of doctor and any other requests you may have. Please see our Nearby Medical Facilities page for emergency dental, and vision services near campus.

If I have had an injury or surgery that will temporarily impair my mobility, what should I do?

To obtain a temporary handicapped parking pass please contact the Office of Public Safety. If you have other concerns regarding mobility issues please contact Accessibility Resource Center.

Can I get a sick note to excuse me from class?

The Office of Health Services does not routinely give excuses for class. Please refer to our Student Illness Documentation Policy or the Student Handbook.

How do I register for CPR classes?

For information on our American Heart Association CPR courses, please click here.

I have questions about reproductive health.

Please visit our Reproductive Health page for our statement regarding reproductive health and information about the services we provide.

We know that as a parent you have been involved in your student’s care since day one and we understand your concerns. Students must maintain their well-being to succeed academically and parents are often a primary source of health information for our students.

Below are answers to the most common questions we receive.

What do I need to do before my student begins classes at Bellarmine?

• Have your student submit a completed Immunization Form, required for all students.
• If your student is under the age of 18, submit a Parental Consent Form .
• If your student may need accommodations, please contact Accessibility Resource Center.
• If your student has a chronic illness or requires health care about which you want us to be aware of, contact us: healthservices@bellarmine.edu. You may also want to contact Accessibility Resource Center.
• If your student takes regular medication, talk to their provider now to ensure they will be able to have their prescriptions filled while at Bellarmine.
• For information about eating disorders, anxiety, depression or other mental health issues contact our Counseling Center.

What immunizations does my student need to have to attend Bellarmine University?

All students are required to have their immunizations submitted prior to the start of the academic year (Immunization Form).

How do I speak to a health care provider about my student’s lab results?

The Office of Health Services adheres to FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Acts) regulations. The student must complete and sign a consent to authorize our sharing of any of their information with anyone (Medical Release Form). We encourage regular communication with your student so they can tell you personally about their visit to the clinic. The following link has more information about FERPA.

What can I do if my student is sick?

If your student feels that self-care is not adequate and they need advanced care, encourage them to make an appointment to see one of our Nurse Practitioners. Our NPs can assess them, and will refer them if they feel they need care that we are unable to provide. Guide them to visit their Patient Portal or call 502.272.8313 to make an appointment. Students over 18 must make their own appointments.

Where can my student have their prescription filled?

The Office of Health Services does not have an outpatient pharmacy, but we do offer a variety of common over-the-counter medications for your symptoms FREE of charge. For your convenience, nearby pharmacy information may be found here. Any cost of medications prescribed by a Nurse Practitioner during a clinic appointment is the responsibility of the patient.

My student doesn’t have a car; how can they go to an off-campus appointment or have a prescription filled off campus?

Usually students are able to get a ride from a friend or roommate. If this is not possible, we can provide cab vouchers to students for medical care or procuring medication only. The cab company keeps careful records; anyone found to be using the voucher for anything besides healthcare is responsible for the charges.

I want my student to have a primary care provider or specialist in Louisville; do you have recommendations? How about vision testing or dentists?

You may call Norton Physician Referral at 502.629.1234 for help connecting to a physician of any kind in our community. They will help to match neighborhood, type of doctor and any other requests you may have. Please see our Nearby Medical Facilities page for emergency dental, and vision services near campus.

Where is the closest emergency room?

The closest ER is Norton Audubon and is about 5 minutes away. More information can be found on our Nearby Medical Facilities page.

What if my student needs to be seen outside of regular business hours?

Through a generous donation from Norton Healthcare, students have access to FREE Norton eCare video visits available 24/7/365. This service allows students to receive quick, non-urgent care free from their home or residence hall. A few examples of conditions seen in video visits include allergies, cold, flu, fever, insect bite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, red eye, skin rash, sore throat and urinary tract infection. Visit our Norton eCare page for instructions. If you need advanced care, visit our Nearby Medical Facilities page for a list that includes clinics and hospitals.

If my student is having problems adjusting to college, what can I do?

Our Counseling Center is an excellent resource for this, as well as many other common mental health concerns. Like the Office of Health Services, counseling sessions are free of charge and completely confidential.

How can I ensure my student is seen in the clinic if they are under the age of 18?

Please fill out a Parental Consent Form. Please note that this allows us to see your student in the clinic ONLY; if your student needs to be seen anywhere outside of the clinic, such as a local Urgent Care Clinic or if you wish for your student to use Norton eCare visits, they must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

What health related items should I send with my student?

We can supply many over the counter items for free. Your student only needs to call and ask for what they need. We suggest your student have on hand the following: thermometer, bandages, antibiotic ointment, hand sanitizer, heating pad, humidifier, insect repellent, sunscreen, tissues, medications, itch cream, pain relievers, and anything they use or need frequently.

How much will it cost for my student to visit the clinic?

Appointments with a Nurse Practitioner are FREE to Bellarmine students. Much of the testing we offer such as Strep, Flu, Mono, UTI, pregnancy, and blood sugar are also FREE, as well as any over-the-counter medication or supplies (such as bandages, wraps, or suture removal kits). Any lab work that is sent out on your student’s behalf will be charged to you or your insurance. We will collect your student’s information at the time the labs are sent and the bill will be mailed to you or to your insurance by the lab. There are some services for which we do charge; however, Bellarmine strives to keep costs as low as possible for the convenience of students that need these services for their program requirements and for their healthcare. Charges are designed to cover only the cost of the service, not for profit. Payment is required for the following at the time of service:

• Allergy shot administration
• Vaccinations (call to inquire about available vaccinations)
• TB screening
• CPR courses and replacement cards
• Hard copies of medical records

Often we will also provide the estimated costs of these services at other locations in an effort to help you find the best price. We accept most payment types. Please call 502.272.8313 for current pricing information. We cannot charge to insurance or put the cost for any services on a Bellarmine account.

Does Bellarmine provide health insurance?

We strongly recommend that all students have health insurance coverage, but Bellarmine does not require it. Bellarmine does not offer health insurance plans and refers students to this link for options: www.healthcare.gov. 

My student has had an illness or injury that makes it difficult for them to get around. Can they have assistance getting to class?

To obtain a temporary accessible parking pass please contact the Office of Public Safety. If you have other concerns regarding mobility issues please contact Accessibility Resource Center.

Students may check out the following items:

• Crutches
• Wheelchair
• Glucometer
• Oxygen saturation monitor

Can my student charge immunizations, labs, or CPR classes to their Bellarmine account?

How do I make an appointment for my student?

In keeping with FERPA guidelines, all appointments must be made by the students themselves. They may use their Patient Portal to see a Nurse Practitioner, or contact Nurse Alice at mkimble@bellarmine.edu if they need allergy shots or immunizations. 

Can my child get allergy shots at the clinic?

Yes, we offer allergy injections for a charge of $20 per semester to cover supplies with an order from your allergist. Students should email Nurse Alice at mkimble@bellarmine.edu for more details and to schedule an appointment.

My student is too sick to attend class. What is your medical excuse policy?

Please see our Student Illness Documentation Policy.

What do I do if I have a health related question not listed here?

All questions can be directed to Alice Kimble, Director at: mkimble@bellarmine.edu. If you need immediate assistance, call the front desk during business hours at: 502.272.8313.

Where should I direct reproductive health questions?

Please call the director, Alice Kimble at 502.272.8493.

What is COVID-19?

The virus causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is called SARS-CoV-2. It is a new virus that originated in late 2019; therefore, providers and scientists are still learning much about COVID-19. There are many types of human coronaviruses including some that commonly cause mild upper-respiratory tract illnesses. COVID-19 is a new disease, caused by a novel (or new) coronavirus that has not previously been seen in humans.

How does the virus spread?

The virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly from person to person, mainly through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Spread is more likely when people are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

People with COVID-19 have reported a wide range of symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus, and can include: fever, cough, shortness of breath, body aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and new loss of taste and/or smell. This list does not include all possible symptoms, as COVID-19 is a new virus we are still working to understand and combat.

Is there a test to see if I have COVID-19?

Yes, there are two types of tests that detect COVID-19.

• Viral tests check samples from your respiratory system, such as a swab from the inside of your nose, to see if you are currently infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
• Antibody tests check your blood by looking for antibodies, which may tell you if you had a past infection with the virus that causes COVID-19.

What should I do if I think I have COVID-19 or have been exposed to COVID-19?

Call the Office of Health Services at 502.272.8313. Please do not visit the office. Call first to ensure you do not transmit the virus if you are positive.

How can I protect myself and/or my loved ones from COVID-19?

• Get vaccinated. A comprehensive list of vaccination sites can be found on the Kentucky Regional Vaccination Locations page, the Indiana.gov site and at Vaccines.gov.
• Hands: Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• Face: Wear a face covering in public settings. Bellarmine’s policies on mask requirements are determined by county infection rates and federal and state regulations. 
• Space: Maintain at least 6 feet of physical distance between you and others.

What should I do if I or someone in my household gets sick with COVID-19?

If you or someone in your household tested positive for COVID-19, or if you have developed symptoms, you should start to quarantine to avoid further transmission of the virus. Please call 502-272-8313 to report any positive COVID-19 cases.

What should I do if I have had close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19?

If you have had close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19, call 502-272-8313 to report any potential exposure to COVID-19.

Is it safe to get care for other medical conditions during this time?

Yes, it is important to continue taking care of your health and wellness. Please be sure to take any medications and/or follow treatment plans prescribed by your healthcare provider and manage any preexisting conditions as your healthcare provider has instructed. Call your provider if you have any concerns about your medical conditions, or if you get sick. Do not delay getting emergency care for your health problems or any health condition that requires immediate attention (trouble breathing, chest pain, loss of consciousness, to name a few potential life-threatening conditions). Continue to practice everyday prevention. Wash your hands often, avoid close contact, wear a cloth face covering, cover coughs and sneezes, and clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces often. If you become sick or hurt, and would like to see a provider, please call before going anywhere. At this time, any medical provider will request that you call first before visiting, and will have their own precautions regarding pandemic procedures.

If I have an underlying medical condition, am I at higher risk for contracting COVID-19?

Contact your healthcare provider to see if you should take any additional steps with your medical condition during this pandemic. COVID-19 is a new virus that we don’t fully understand, so it depends on the details of your condition.

What can I do if I’m having a hard time coping with the stress of this pandemic?

Contact the Counseling Center—they are here for you! It’s a difficult time. Please do not hesitate to reach out.

When should I seek emergency care if I have COVID-19?

Look for emergency warning signs for COVID-19. If someone is showing any of these signs, seek emergency medical care immediately:

• Trouble breathing
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• New confusion
• Inability to wake or stay awake
• Bluish lips or face

This list is not all possible symptoms. Please call your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you. Call 911 or call ahead to your local emergency facility. Notify the operator that you are seeking care for someone who has or may have COVID-19.

What is Bellarmine’s response protocol for COVID-19?

Our team has been working for months to ensure a quick and efficient response to this pandemic. We have also put together a direct response team to follow up with any positive case that is reported to us. Please visit https://www.bellarmine.edu/welcome-back/ for more information on pandemic response at Bellarmine University.