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Student Center for Health & Counseling

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Student Center for Health & Counseling
Birch Hall 1A

Phone: (218) 755-2053
(218) 755-2024

Fax: (218) 755-2750

Mailing Address:
1500 Birchmont Dr. NE #30
Bemidji, MN 56601-2907

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can I call if I have questions?   

The Student Center for Health and Counseling phone number is 218-755-2053 or 2024.

Who may see my health or counseling record?  

This is a question frequently asked at the Student Center for Health and Counseling.  First, the law protects the privacy of medical and counseling records.  Except in the highly unusual circumstance, like a court order or an emergency, no one can see your health or counseling record unless; a written authorization is signed by you, your parent if you are a minor, or your legal guardian.  Apart from these circumstances your records at SCHC are not available to your parents, teachers, administrators, or anyone else.  Even with an authorization signed by the parent of a minor, there is some clinical information that will not be released.  We train our staff to pay careful attention to the handling and storage of health and counseling records. Health service records are stored electronically.  Counseling records are stored securely in the center and are in the process of being converted to electronic records.  Because we are an integrated service, providers in both services may view your records for the purpose of coordinating your care.  

What services are actually available?  

The Student Center for Health and Counseling offers primary care for acute or chronic diseases, a variety of lab tests, and over-the-counter as well as prescription medications.  You can visit the Center for problems ranging from strep throat to minor injuries, from communicable diseases to STI (sexually transmitted infection) testing, from acne to chronic illnesses.  Health maintenance services include physicals, birth control counseling, and some immunizations.  Crutches, splints, slings, and similar medical supplies are available for purchase or rent.  Referrals for specialty care or X-rays are also given.

Are services at the Student Center for Health and Counseling free?  

Some services are available at no cost; others are offered at a very reasonable rate.  The Student Center for Health and Counseling is not at BSU to make a profit, but it does need to cover the cost of the supplies and medications that are used. Counseling services are offered free of charge.

Will charges I receive be covered by my insurance?  

If you have Blue Cross Blue Shield, HealthPartners, Medica, MN Care, Preffered One, UCare, or United Health Plan (Mega Life), the Student Center for Health submits claims directly to these companies.  You then only pay for what is not covered.  If you have other types of insurance, you receive an itemized statement that can be submitted to an insurance company for possible reimbursement.

Do I need to pay cash for the services when they are received?  

No, charges are sent to Accounting Services at BSU on a weekly basis.  They will send you a bill if you still owe money.

Do I really need to provide vaccination information to BSU?  

Yes, you do.  State law requires students born after December 31, 1956, to provide verification of immunization.  You do have a 45-day grace period, so you can initially attend classes; after that, the information must be provided before you can register for the next semester.

What about immunizations that are not required?  

The student Center for Health and Counseling encourages students to be aware of other diseases for which immunizations are available.  Hepatitis B and Meningitis immunizations and flu vaccines are recommended for college students.  These are all available at the center, as are Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Polio vaccinations.  

Where can I find information about a health condition in a private, safe setting? 

Check out the Self Care Center, next to the lobby of the Student Center for Health and Counseling. No appointment is necessary.  You'll have access to books, videos, and health information on CD-ROMs that you can use for personal information or as a research for a class presentation.  Several types of self-assessments are also available, including cold care, sexual health, nutrition, and mental or emotional health.