Clinic & Nursing Services In Detail

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Allergy Shots

If you need allergy injections to maintain a desensitization schedule prescribed by your allergist, the Sindecuse Health Center staff can assist you by administering your antigen. We will, however, need your help. We will need clearly written instructions and an up-to-date injection schedule (last injection recorded with strength and amount) from your allergist, as well as the bottle of antigen you are presently using.

First-time Allergy patients

Consultation

Allergy patients who are receiving their injections at Sindecuse Health Center for the first time are requested to call ahead for a 30 minute consultation with a Registered Nurse. At this appointment, a review of your physician's orders, your medication history, and the allergist's schedule will be completed. In addition, Your nurse will provide an overview of Sindecuse allergy injection policy as well as an overview of campus and community services available to you.

• Park in the designated student gated health center area.
• Check in at registration.
• If available, bring health insurance information.
• The nurse will administer the injection and you must plan to wait at the Health Center for 20 minutes after your injection to ensure that you do not have a reaction to your antigen. Reactions are rare but if you do have a reaction, nurses and doctors are immediately available to provide you with effective emergency care. If a delayed reaction occurs, please return to the Health Center – or if it's closed, go to the hospital emergency room or Immediate Care Center.

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Attention Deficit Disorder Diagnosis

Process for obtaining a diagnosis Sindecuse Health Center:

1. An appointment with a staff clinician (30 minutes).
2. An appointment with a psychologist for neurobehavioral testing (1 hour).
3. An appointment with a psychiatrist (1 hour).
   The psychiatrist will review all the information from the previous visits and conduct an interview.

At each step you will be told if you meet the diagnostic criteria for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It will be your choice whether or not to continue to the next step.

Your insurance may or may not cover the cost of the visits. You will need to call your insurance company to discuss with them.

The diagnosis of Attention Deficit Disorder is made after careful consideration. This is a diagnosis that follows an individual’s personal health history throughout their lifetime.

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Contraceptive Services

The Health Center provides a wide range of contraceptive options and confidential services. Make an appointment with a clinician for contraceptives methods requiring a prescription. You and your clinician will decide whether a physical examination is recommended for you. Available prescription options include (but are not limited to):

• Oral contraceptives (birth control pills)
• Contraceptive patch
• Contraceptive ring
• Diaphragm
• Depo-Provera injection

Non-prescription Contraceptives

Over-the-counter, non-prescription contraceptives – for instance, condoms – are available in the Health Center Pharmacy at reduced cost for students. A variety of condoms are available and are recommended for use with all other methods of contraception to prevent sexually transmitted infections.

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Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception (also known as the “morning after pill”) is available for purchase at the Sindecuse pharmacy for those 18 years and older. Proof of age is required.

For best results, emergency contraception should be taken within 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse. It can be used at any time during the menstrual cycle.

Emergency Contraception is not recommended for use if you have a known or suspected pregnancy, are allergic to any components, or have undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding.

Emergency contraceptives are not recommended for routine use as a contraceptive method. There are several options for highly effective routine contraception. Make an appointment to discuss them with your clinician.

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Eating Disorder Assessment and Treatment

When your relationship with food and obsession with thinness interferes with your life, you may be suffering from an eating disorder. Eating disorders involve destructive patterns of restrictive dieting, purging, exercising, and binging that lead to serious physical and psychological consequences. Recovery is most possible when an eating disorder is identified early, treated by trained professionals, and when treatment is supported by close friends and family.

Help yourself or someone you are concerned about. The following are available through self-referral:

• Medical evaluation and treatment – (269)387-3290
• Individual psychotherapy – (269)387-1850
• Nutrition assessment and counseling – (269)387-3290
• Helping resources – (269)387-3263

Reaching Out To Someone With An Eating Disorder

 

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Health Care for Children

Children pose a special concern for parents working to complete their graduation requirements. The following services can help enrolled students with children ensure access to appropriate health care for their children.

Children Over 12 Years of Age

Children aged 12 and over of enrolled students can be seen at the Health Center and have access to our many professional services. Health care for children requires a membership fee charged on the first professional visit to the Health Center each semester or session. Health care coverage runs from the first day of classes of one semester or session to the first day of classes the following semester or session.

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Immunizations

Immunization are given on a walk-in basis, no appointment necessary.

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday
8–11:15 a.m. and 1–4:15 p.m.

Thursday
9–11:15 a.m. and 1:00–4:15 p.m.

Immunizations protect personal health and the health of our University community. We strongly encourage verification of immunization status for all students entering Western Michigan University. The following adult immunizations are recommended:

Meningococcal
http://www.cdc.gov/nip/publications/VIS/vis-mening.pdf

Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
http://www.cdc.gov/nip/publications/VIS/vis-mmr.pdf

Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap)
http://www.cdc.gov/nip/publications/VIS/vis-tdap.pdf

Hepatitis B
http://www.cdc.gov/nip/publications/VIS/vis-hep-b.pdf

Human papillomavirus (HPV)
http://www.cdc.gov/nip/publications/VIS/vis-hpv.pdf

Varicella (chicken Pox)
http://www.cdc.gov/nip/publications/VIS/vis-varicella.pdf

Influenza (Flu)
http://www.cdc.gov/nip/publications/VIS/vis-flu.pdf

Each Fall Semester between October and December, Sindecuse Health Center offers flu vaccine for your protection. Each year's vaccine contains protection for the virus types most likely to cause respiratory influenza during the coming winter.

Anyone wishing to reduce the likelihood of contracting influenza should receive flu vaccine. Those at increased risk for flu-related complications are especially encouraged to be immunized. These include persons with asthma or other lung disease, diabetes, heart disease, any chronic medical condition or HIV infection. In addition, anyone over 65 years of age is encouraged to be vaccinated.

Vaccination can prevent severe complications from influenza, including bacterial pneumonia, and helps prevent the spreadof influenza to high risk individuals. Vaccination must be received in time to create immunity through the winter months. Resistance to infection takes several weeks to develop and lasts only a few months.

For more information about when flu vaccine will be available, Call (269) 387-3290.

Travel Immunizations

Protect your health during international travel. Click here to learn more.

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Physical Exams

Gender specific physical exams for disease prevention are available by appointment. The annual female exam includes breast exam and the annual Pap smear and STD screening. The male preventive physical exam includes some cholesterol and urine testing, testicular exam and evaluation for other individual needs.

Call (269) 387-3290 to make an appointment.

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Pregnancy Testing

Confidential pregnancy testing is offered at Sindecuse Health Center by nursing appointment. An appointment is made with a nurse who is experienced in helping students confronted with a planned or unplanned pregnancy. Call (269) 387-3290 to schedule your appointment.

Counseling occurs in a non-judgmental and caring way and is designed to help a student explore personal values, beliefs and options. All options available are discussed and appropriate referrals are made.

Pregnancy can occur when a man and woman choose sexual intercourse without effective contraceptive protection. Because the time of ovulation or production of an egg in the woman usually varies from month to month and because a man’s sperm can live for several days inside a woman’s body, pregnancy can occur more easily than is often thought. Without effective contraceptive protection, 60% of sexually active women will become pregnant within six months and 90% will become pregnant within a year. In fact, it is not unusual for pregnancy to occur even if the man and woman have experienced sexual intercourse only once; and contrary to popular belief, pregnancy may also result if intercourse occurs during the woman’s menstrual period.

The Facts About Urine Pregnancy Testing

The Hormone Pregnancy testing involves a simple laboratory procedure to detect the presence of a hormone called Human Chronic Gonadotropin (HCG) which is produced by the developing placenta in a pregnant woman. HCG production begins within the first week following implantation of a fertilized egg and gradually reaches its highest concentration during the third month of pregnancy. As HCG production increases, this hormone enters the blood stream and filters through the kidneys into the urine. The most common test used for confirming pregnancy is one developed to detect HCG levels in the urine.

Timing of the Test

In the first several weeks of pregnancy the level of hormone production is too small to result in a positive pregnancy test. To be accurate, a pregnancy test should not be performed until HCG levels have risen to at least 50 mlU/ml. This level is generally achieved about the time a pregnant woman misses her first menstrual period. Accuracy of the test increases with each passing week.

If the first pregnancy test performed after a missed menstrual period is negative, a second test is recommended one to two weeks later. Any urine specimen is appropriate for HCG testing, but the first morning urine is optimal because HCG is more concentrated and is therefore more measurable. A diluted urine specimen obtained during the day may not contain sufficient HCG to be detected by this test.

Pregnancy tests can give false negative results when: 1. The test has been performed before HCG levels are high enough to be detected. 2. The urine is too diluted to contain sufficient HCG.

Are Home Test Kits Accurate?

Home pregnancy testing kits are easily available and often used by young women to detect pregnancy in its early stages. Most home pregnancy tests are reliable when performed and interpreted accurately. However, these kits are not reusable and they can be expensive. In addition, if pregnancy is suspected and medical care is needed, a second pregnancy test from a licensed clinical laboratory will be required, making home pregnancy testing often more expensive than a clinical evaluation from the Health Center.

Signs of Pregnancy

The most commonly noticed symptom of pregnancy is missing a menstrual period. Missing a period, however, can also occur for other reasons, such as feeling increased stress or tension, or from trying to diet severely to lose weight. A period may also be delayed or missed if a woman fears becoming pregnant, if she wants to become pregnant, or if she becomes physically ill. Another early symptom of pregnancy is morning sickness, nausea and vomiting. Morning sickness usually appears a week or two after a menstrual period is missed and continues until about the 10th or the 12th week of pregnancy. Morning sickness occurs in about half the women who are pregnant, but may also occur in a woman who is not pregnant.

To confuse things more, it is also possible for a woman to have a fairly normal appearing menstrual period when in the early stages of pregnancy. Enlargement and tenderness of the breasts can be another early sign of pregnancy. This is similar to the monthly breast tenderness many women experience just before their menstrual period, but this tenderness may be more intense than usual. In addition, there may be a more frequent urge to urinate.

There may be changes in appetite or in the kinds of foods that seem appealing. There may also be a change in mood, a feeling of fatigue, or simply somehow feeling different. A woman may, however, experience none of these physical symptoms and still be pregnant. Remember, too, that these changes can also occur as a result of other physical or emotional problems. A woman should not rely solely on physical signs to determine whether or not she is pregnant. A pregnancy test is a more reliable method of determining pregnancy in its early stages so that medical attention may be sought as soon as possible.

 

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Psychiatric Testing

A board certified psychiatrist is available by referral only to treat a wide variety of disease processes common to college students such as adjustment disorders, mood disorders including depression, bipolar mood problems, anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorders, attention deficit disorders, eating disorders and thought disorders including schizophrenia.

Call (269) 387-3290 to schedule an appointment with a clinician to assess your need for psychiatric services.

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Sexually Transmitted Infection
Testing & Treatment

The Health Center offers non-judgmental evaluation and treatment for all sexually transmitted infections. An appointment is made with your clinician of choice and the appropriate health history is taken, a physical examination is performed, and laboratory tests are ordered that will determine the specific problem.

Treatment is then offered according to specific protocols. Education and information for current management and future prevention are given according to your needs.

All students who are diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection are highly encouraged to have an HIV antibody test.

Call (269) 387-3290 to schedule an appointment.

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Tuberculosis Testing

TB testing is done at the Health Center on a walk-in basis – no appointment necessary. We are available to administer your TB test or to read your results during the following times:

Monday
8–11:30 a.m. and 1–6:00 p.m.

Tuesday & Wednesday
8–11:30 a.m. and 1–4:30 p.m.

Friday
9–11:30 a.m. and 1–4:30 p.m.

The cost is $14.

After the test, you will need to have your TB test results read 2–3 days later – during the times listed above.

What is a TB test?

A nurse will inject a small amount of fluid called purified protein derivative (PPD) under the top layer of skin on your lower arm. The PPD consists of inactivated tuberculosis bacteria – but know the TB skin test is just a test; it does not give you TB, nor is it a vaccine to prevent TB.

• You must return in 48–72 hours after injection to have the area checked.
• A negative test results when there is no redness or swelling at the site of injection.
• A positive test results when there is a certain degree of redness, swelling, and hardness at the site of injection.

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Tuberculosis Screening Requirement

Requirement in brief

Beginning fall of 2005, Western Michigan University has required all International Students arriving within the past 5 years from countries where tuberculosis (TB) is endemic to be screened for TB.

Am I required to be screened?

You must fulfill this requirement if you are a citizen or recently arrived from a country with a high rate of TB. It is easier to identify countries of low rather than high TB prevalence. Therefore, students should undergo TB screening if they have arrived from countries EXCEPT those on the following list.

Why do I need to be screened for TB?

The purpose of screening for tuberculosis (TB) is to identify individuals with TB disease (active TB) or latent TB infection manifested by a positive tuberculin skin test. Both TB disease and latent infection should be treated.

What if I do not comply with the screening requirement?

If you do not meet this requirement you will receive a HOLD on your university account barring you from registering for classes until this requirement is met.

Where do I go to fulfill this requirement?

You can meet this requirement by providing the following documentation from your medical provider in your home country or you may have your testing done at Sindecuse Health Center once you arrive in the United States:

1. Negative TB skin test with your name, WIN#, reaction size in millimeters, done within a year of stating classes at WMU, or
2. Positive skin test with your name, WIN#, reaction size in millimeters and results of a negative chest x-ray read and signed by a radiologist, or
3. Documentation of completed treatment for active or latent TB.
   
   The following types of documentation are not acceptable:
4. Tine test
5. QuantiFERON test
6. Chest x-ray only
7. T-spot test
   
   
   You could get your TB Test at the Health Center – click here.
   After a TB test, you will need to return 48–72 hours later for the test reaction on your arm to be examined
8. If the reaction is not significant, or there is no reaction, then you have no TB infection (negative).
9. If the reaction of your arm is significant (positive), a chest x-ray will be required to check for active TB in the lungs.

What if my TB skin test is positive?

• A chest x-ray will be required to check for active TB in the lungs.
• If the chest x-ray is normal and you have no symptoms of active TB, you have inactive, latent TB.
• If you have an abnormal chest x-ray or symptoms of active TB, you may be required to have additional tests.

Are there any side effects with the TB skin test?

The TB skin test will not make you sick. It may cause swelling, itching or tenderness at the injection site, which usually disappears within a week. You can continue normal activities including washing your arm after the test.

What if I am diagnosed with TB infection?

Most people have inactive, latent TB, which cannot be transmitted and does not cause symptoms. Treatment with antibiotics is recommended in order to prevent active TB. You can attend school normally.
Active TB can be transmitted and is very serious, possibly causing permanent damage and even death. It is curable with appropriate medicine, and treatment with antibiotics is required. You will not be allowed to attend school until you have a release from your medical provider.

Will TB test results affect my student status?

Having TB will not affect your student status. Students who have TB infection are not discriminated against in any way. Western Michigan University must report cases of active TB (not latent TB) to the Kalamazoo County Health Departments for investigation of possible transmission to others. Otherwise, health records at WMU are confidential and cannot be released without patient consent.

What if I had a BCG vaccine in my country?
Do I still need to have TB skin Test?

Many International students received BCG vaccine, which reduced their TB risk as children. However, BCG vaccine effectiveness declines with time. A TB skin test is still indicated for those who have previously received BCG.

Where should I send my information?

Sindecuse Health Center
Western Michigan University
1903 W. Michigan Ave.
Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5445
Attention: Director of Nursing

Other Questions?

Call (269) 387-3295

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Dental Care

Although we don't have dentists on site, we can give you suggestions for private dentists in the commuity who are accepting new patients. If you have a dental emergency, one of our physicians will make a direct referral.

Kalamazoo Valley Community College Dental Hygiene Program
The Dental Hygiene Clinic is a full-service clinic providing professional and quality dental hygiene services to the community since 1970. The goal is to help you improve and maintain your oral health. To accomplish this, they thoroughly review your medical and dental histories, and perform an oral exam. When this is completed, a dental hygiene diagnosis and treatment plan will be customized for your needs by a student clinician under the supervision of a licensed dental professional.

• Adult cleanings
• Child cleanings (3-13 years)
• Amalgam polishing
• Desensitizing
• Fluoride treatment
• Microabrasion
• Perio scalings
• Pit & fissure sealants
• Preliminary oral exams
• Study models
• X-rays
• Behavior modification services
• Plaque control
• Nutritional counseling for oral health
• Myofunctional therapy

Nominal fees are charged for these services. Call today to make an appointment with a student dental hygienist on the Texas Township Campus, Room 8330.

The Dental Hygiene Clinic
Kalamazoo Valley Community College
6767 West O Avenue, P.O. Box 4070
Kalamazoo, Michigan 49003-4070

For more information or an appointment, call (269) 372-5338.

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Same Day Care

The Health Center's Same Day Care Clinic is designed for acute minor illness or injury that cannot wait for an appointment. If you come to the Health Center without an appointment, you will be referred to the Triage Nurse who will help you determine whether Same Day Care or a regular appointment will be best for you.

Please note: A Same Day care appointment does not guarantee immediate care. It may be necessary for you to wait for the first available clinician.

A decision to seek medical evaluation and treatment at a hospital emergency room or an immediate care center should be made with care, as it may be an expensive and possibly unnecessary choice. Your Student Health Fee does not cover ambulance service or medical care provided outside the Health Center. And most health insurance is unlikely to cover out-patient hospital visits unless the condition is a true emergency.

Most health concerns can wait until morning for treatment.

Those requiring immediate attention include the following:

• Major trauma (e.g., possible head injury, fracture, internal injuries)
• Unconsciousness (e.g., diabetic coma, insulin reaction, electric shock, drug overdose)
• Cuts and lacerations that may require suturing or those that result in heavy bleeding
• Seizure disorders (e.g., first known seizure, seizure associated with injury, seizure with high temperature)
• Rape and sexual assault

If you do have a medical emergency, call 911.

• State your name
• State your problem
• Give your location
• Provide your (or a nearby) phone number
• Whenever possible, have another person wait for the ambulance and direct the attendants to you.

If we’re closed, and you need help making a decision whether you need Same Day care, call:

Bronson Trauma and Emergency Center 341-6386
Borgess Trauma and Emergency Center 226-4815

In addition, there are several immediate care centers that are open until 10:00 p.m. for minor health problems. They are listed in the Yellow Pages of your phone book.

WMU Employee After Hours On-The-Job Injuries
If you are injured on the job when the Health Center is closed, notify your supervisor immediately. You will be taken to Bronson Trauma and Emergency Center or to one of the industrial clinics in Kalamazoo. Follow-up should be at Sindecuse Health Center.