Dear students,
This last student newsletter of the semester is coming to you a little earlier than usual, before the end of classes and the journey through finals.
This week is our 11th annual Uninsured Student Outreach Week. UHS staff and Michigan Medicine Patient Financial Counselors are offering 1:1 Zoom sessions for uninsured domestic students to navigate options for free or low-cost health insurance coverage. As I have said before, at its core, health insurance is about well-being. If you need insurance, learn more and schedule an appointment.
As many of you prepare to leave campus for the semester break, here are important reminders:
- If you are traveling internationally over break or for study abroad next semester, don’t forget to register your trips and enroll in travel abroad health insurance, which is available for university AND personal travel.
- Make sure you are up to date on your vaccinations. The last drop-in flu and COVID-19 vaccination clinic is TODAY in the Michigan Union Pond Room from 10am-2pm. Respiratory illness is on the rise and getting vaccinated will offer you and your loved ones important protection.
- Take masks and COVID-19 tests with you. While supplies last, free rapid COVID-19 antigen tests are available at the vaccination clinic today, as well as at Pierpont Commons and Wolverine Wellness. Free masks are available at the info centers in Pierpont, the League, and the Union.
- Know your mental health resources. As I outlined in my November newsletter, take advantage of your CAPS Uwill teletherapy sessions, which are available to you even when you are out of the state or out of the U.S.
This semester break will be the first since the Board of Regents approved lengthening the time between the fall and winter terms. I hope the additional days off provide you with greater opportunities for rest and time with loved ones. We look forward to seeing you in January for a fantastic 2024.
Stay healthy, Wolverines,
Robert D. Ernst, M.D.
Chief Health Officer
Associate Vice President for Health and Wellness in Student Life
Health and Wellness Updates
Future U. Podcast
Earlier this fall, the national podcast Future U. came to Ann Arbor to discuss sustainability, student wellness, and what it means to be a flagship university.
The Maize and Blue Cupboard now uses an appointment schedule in order to increase access and efficiency. Learn more about MBC and schedule an appointment. The cupboard is open to all members of the U-M community, whether they are on a tight budget or unable to easily access a grocery store.
President Ono’s December video message
In this month’s video message, President Ono offers an excellent overview of the health and wellness work taking place across campus. I am so proud of the incredible work done on a daily basis by my outstanding team members.