International Students

Immunizations and Health Forms

Immunization requirements for all University of Kentucky students can be found here.

University Health Service strongly recommends bringing a copy (or an image on your cell phone) of your immunization record in English with you to the United States.  Many students find it easier to get a copy of their records before leaving their home country. 

The healthcare system in the United States is different than what is found in many other countries. 

Some things to keep in mind that are typical of medical practice in the U.S.:

• We use the term clinician to refer to physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners who see patients at University Health Service (UHS).
  • A Physician Assistant (PA) is a licensed healthcare professional who provides a wide range of medical services alongside a physician in a team-based healthcare delivery model. They can diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans, prescribe medications, and assist in surgery. 
  • A Nurse Practitioner, also called an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (NP or APRN) is a registered nurse with advanced education and training, typically at the master's or doctoral level, who can diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and provide a wide range of healthcare services. 
• Each person is responsible for costs associated with their healthcare.  The Student Health Fee will cover many but not all the services you may receive within the student health clinic.  Any services not covered by the Student Health Fee will be billed to your personal medical insurance.
• Most medical insurance has a Deductible and a Copay.  A Deductible is the amount of money you are required to pay for covered healthcare services before your insurance plan starts paying for a portion of your medical costs for the remainder of the insurance plan year. Your health insurance Deductible starts over at the beginning of each plan year.  A Copay is money you pay for a healthcare service or prescription drug at the time you receive the service. In other words, you pay a portion of the cost, and your insurance covers the rest (once your Deductible is met). 
• Because privacy is very important, clinicians assume that you will want to be seen alone. If you want someone to be with you during an appointment, be sure to tell both the front desk staff and your clinician.
• It is common for patients to be asked to undress and put on a gown provided for them before they are examined.

Clear communication with everyone in our office is essential for your safety and wellbeing.  Translation services are available. These may be arranged at the time you make an appointment or can be requested once you arrive in the University Health Service.

If you have more questions or problems before or after your visit you may call the Triage Nurse at 859-323-4636.