Risk Management
Health insurance, immunization and other health concerns
The Study Abroad Office does not provide health-related information to students.
The International Travel Clinic at Sindecuse Health Center provides immunizations and comprehensive information about other travel-related health concerns. Students may schedule a consultation with a Sindecuse professional to discuss travel immunization needs and health precautions. Students may also see their personal physician to receive required or suggested immunizations and other health-related information and warnings pertaining to travel and specific study abroad destinations. To complete all necessary preventive vaccinations before your trip, plan to visit the International Travel Clinic or your physician at least eight weeks prior to your planned departure. Schedule an appointment with Sindecuse's International Travel Clinic by calling (269) 387-3298.
All students participating in study abroad through Western Michigan University are covered by the WMU Study Abroad Insurance program.
PROCEDURE
In the event of serious illness, accident or emergency, WMU Study Abroad may notify the participant's designated emergency contacts. Information may also be shared from the Student Health Emergency Treatment Authorization collected during the application process.
All participants must inform the faculty member-in-residence, on-site director(s), or program assistant(s) representing the host institution and the Study Abroad Office of any problems that arise during their stay abroad so that assistance can be provided. Prior to departure, the study abroad staff will provide specific instructions for requesting emergency assistance from the Study Abroad Office.
Additional Study abroad health and safety information
- WMU Study Abroad Insurance Program—Mandatory insurance for all WMU study abroad students.
- Individual Safety Plan—Required for students traveling to select destinations, based on U.S. State Department's designation of risk.
- Study abroad overseas emergency protocol—Explains how students should respond to an emergency situation abroad.
- Memo to students and parents—Explains how the University monitors health and safety issues for study abroad programs.
- Gender-based violence and Title IX Resources for study abroad—Resource for students regarding the report of Title IX violations while abroad. Students reporting violations may find additional resources through this external site: Pathways to Safety International.
- U.S. Department of State travel registration
- External Resources: Center for Global Education, StudentsAbroad
Students are required to register prior to departure with the United States Embassy in the countries where they will be studying.