Resources For:

HARVARD UNIVERSITY HEALTH SERVICES (HUHS)

David S. Rosenthal, MD, director

* please visit the website for hours of operation at campus clinics

The following is a summary of campus health services. We encourage you to visit the website for detailed, up-to-date information, including department locations, phone numbers, and hours of operation; how to make appointments; event listings and announcements; and additional health information and resources.

Harvard University Health Services (HUHS) provides high quality, comprehensive, confidential health care to students, staff, faculty, and their dependents 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Primary care and mental health services are available at the main health service located at Holyoke Center in Harvard Square, as well as at satellite clinics on the Business, Law, and Medical Area campuses. Academic counseling and behavioral health (mental health and substance abuse) services are also provided at the Linden Street location in Harvard Square.

Services at the main health service in Holyoke Center include:

•    Primary Care
•    Mental Health Services
•    Pediatrics
•    Dental Service
•    Pharmacy
•    Wellness Center
•    Health Promotion/Education
•    HIV Testing
•    Travel Health Clinic
•    Vision Care Clinic
•    Optical Shop
•    Contact Lens Service 

A range of other medical and surgical specialty services at the Holyoke Center location are available by referral from your HUHS primary care physician including allergy, dermatology, diabetology, gastroenterology, neurology, nutrition, obstetrics/ gynecology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, otolaryngology, physical therapy, podiatry, rheumatology, general surgery, urology, laboratory, and radiology services. HUHS also provides an “Ask a Nurse” line (617-998-HUHS [4847]) during regular business hours for information, guidance, and advice. 

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Any student experiencing symptoms of a medical emergency (e.g., chest pain, severe shortness of breath) should call 9-1-1 immediately. After-hours and weekend care for non-routine, urgent medical concerns or symptoms is available through the After Hours Urgent Care Clinic (see below).

AFTER HOURS URGENT CARE CLINIC (AHUCC)

HUHS at Holyoke Center – 5th floor
617-495-5711; TTY: 617-495-1211
Weekdays: 4:00 p.m.–8:00 a.m.
Weekends and Holidays: 24 hours

The After Hours Urgent Care Clinic (AHUCC) is open nights, weekends, and holidays for 24-hour urgent care throughout the year. Whenever possible, students are encouraged to call their primary care team or mental health provider for advice during regular office hours. Ideally, students should use the AHUCC for issues that cannot wait until regular clinic hours. Students who feel that they need medical or mental health attention but are not sure as to the urgency of the situation are advised to call first to obtain advice from the nurse on duty. The entrance to the AHUCC is midway down the parking ramp beneath Holyoke Center, accessible from both Dunster and Holyoke Streets; students who require transportation to the AHUCC are advised to call the Harvard University Police at 617- 495-1212. 

PRIMARY CARE SERVICES

HUHS is committed to providing each student with complete, coordinated health care through a working relationship with a particular primary care team, comprised of a primary care physician (PCP), nurse practitioner, registered nurses, and health assistants. Our teams work closely with students to provide high-quality outpatient healthcare services in a friendly, comfortable atmosphere. These include: 

•    Physical exams
•    Office gynecology (tests, screenings, contraception)
•    Evaluation of acute illness and injury
•    Continued care of chronic medical conditions
•    Immunizations and travel consultations
•    Health promotion and disease prevention education
•    Referrals to specialists

Physicians at HUHS are experienced board certified or board-eligible internists or family physicians who provide high-quality preventive and acute care. Nurse Practi­tioners (NPs) hold advanced degrees and are board certified in family or adult medicine, and are trained to evaluate and treat many acute and common conditions, write prescrip­tions, order diagnostic testing and provide preventive care in consultation with the PCP. Registered nurses (RNs) provide initial assessment for medical problems, help to facil­itate appointments and navigate the health care system, provide routine immunizations and offer advice on common health concerns and questions. PCP team members also help to coordinate any necessary specialty services both at HUHS and in the Cambridge/ Boston area.

Students are encouraged to choose a primary care physician (PCP) early in the first term if one has not already been assigned (as with new students). A complete listing of primary care clinicians is available at the website. Students may email Member Services ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) with their selection. Students may change their PCP at any time for any reason. Students with chronic medical conditions are advised to establish a relationship with the primary care team early in the academic year. It will be helpful to provide copies of medical records of health care received at other facilities. 

Immunizations and Travel Health

Required Immunizations
All students are required to comply with the Massachusetts Immunization law and submit a complete immunization history to Harvard University Health Services prior to registration. NOTE: Incomplete or overdue forms may delay registration. Registered nurses are available to administer routine immunizations. There is a fee for most immunizations; students may term bill or pay by cash or credit card. Complete infor­mation regarding required immunizations is available at the website or by contacting the Medical Specialties Office at 617-495-5182.

Travel Health Immunizations and Information
Prior to international travel, HUHS provides immunizations and related services, including expert counseling and advice for individual travel health needs, on a fee-for­service basis. HUHS recommends scheduling travel health appointments six to eight weeks in advance of travel.

STILLMAN INFIRMARY

24-hour care
Stillman Infirmary provides short-stay care for uncomplicated medical and mental health problems, and certain post-operative cases. Admission to the Stillman Infirmary is based on clinical indications as determined by a student’s primary care team and/or the After Hours Urgent Care Clinic staff.

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND ACADEMIC COUNSELING SERVICES

The Department of Behavioral Health and Academic Counseling (BHAC) unites the Office of Alcohol and Other Drug Services, Bureau of Study Counsel, Center for Wellness and Health Communication, Mental Health Services, and Office of Sexual Assault Prevention and Response in one department to better coordinate student-focused services. Services provided by the Center for Wellness and Health Communication are shown below. Please also see Chapter XIII for academic counseling, alcohol and substance abuse, mental health, and sexual assault prevention and response services.

CENTER FOR WELLNESS

The Center for Wellness (CFW) is a central resource focused on promoting the lifelong health and well-being of those in the Harvard community. The CFW provides health and wellness-related education, information, programs, and advice in a confi­dential setting, including:

•    Health promotion activities and wellness programs
•    One-on-one health and wellness education
•    Complementary therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and shiatsu
•    Health education resource center and lending library
•    Peer education and student health programs
•    The Mind/Body Medical Institute

The CFW also provides an “Ask a Nurse” line (617-998-HUHS [4847]) during regular business hours for information, guidance, and advice. The Center is prepared to meet each individual wherever they are on their journey towards a balanced sense of health and well-being.

IN COMMON

In Common is the peer counseling hotline for Harvard’s graduate and professional schools. In Common offers support and acts as a referral service for students who are dealing with a wide range of issues such as loneliness and alienation, uncertainty about careers, academic or financial problems, or difficulties in relationships. No issue is too big or too small.

In Common is staffed by current Harvard graduate and professional school students. The line is open throughout the academic year. Calls are anonymous and confidential; caller ID is not used. Student volunteers are trained and supervised by professionals from Harvard University Health Services (HUHS) and the Bureau of Study Counsel. Volunteers are recruited each fall; e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 384-­TALK for information. 

PATIENT ADVOCATE

The Patient Advocate is available to facilitate interactions with the Harvard University Health Services around healthcare-related concerns, including:

•    Providing assistance navigating the healthcare system
•    Interceding on behalf of patients who feel they have encountered a problem
•    Providing information on available choices regarding medical care
•    Assisting with special needs arrangements
•    Answering questions and concerns

All requests are welcome, including positive comments and recommendations for improvement. All communications are kept in the strictest confidence. Patient Satis­faction feedback forms may be submitted to the Patient Advocate at any of the suggestion boxes located throughout HUHS or online. 

Special Needs

HUHS is prepared to meet the general and special health care needs of students. Early contact with a primary care clinician is advised to establish a base for continuity of care during a student’s active stay at Harvard. A variety of access services are available through the Accessible Education Office, including sign-language and oral interpreters. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are located throughout HUHS at Holyoke Center, and Stillman Infirmary shower and bathroom facilities are fully equipped for patients with limited mobility. The Patient Advocate is also available to provide orientation to HUHS on an individual basis, assist individuals with arrange­ments for special needs, and answer healthcare-related questions or concerns.

HIV TESTING AND COUNSELING

Confidential HIV testing is now considered the standard at most universities and health clinics across the country. Because of this, HUHS will no longer provide anonymous testing for HIV effective July 1, 2009.

Confidential testing involves making an appointment with your primary care clinician. Your clinician will provide you with counseling and have you sign a consent form to be tested. Your clinician will give you an order for a blood test at the HUHS Laboratory, which in turn, sends the results to your clinician. Your results are entered into your electronic medical record. 

As with all of your personal health information, results and/or identifying information are private in accordance with the strictest confidentiality laws. Testing is generally covered by the HUSHP Supplemental Plan. 

For those who would like to have anonymous testing, the following locations in the Boston area offer anonymous testing and counseling. 

Fenway Community Health Center
7 Haviland Street, Boston
617-267-0159
Walk-in Hours: W, 4:30 to 6 p.m.
Fee: none
Return of test results: 10 to 12 days

Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital
110 Francis Street, Suite G, Boston
617-632-7706
Hours (appt. only): M–F, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Fee: $25 in cash
Return of test results: 2 weeks

Massachusetts General Hospital
100 Blossom Street – Fifth Floor, Room 515
617-726-2748
Walk in clinic—must be registered over the phone as a “general patient” by calling
866-211-6588
Tues–Thurs 8:30 a.m. to 11a.m.; Mon, Wed 1–3 p.m.

The AIDS Action Committee of Massachusetts has a toll free line and website providing information about where to find a convenient test site and more information about HIV testing in general. Call the Massachusetts HIV & STD Hotline at 1-800­-235-2331.

Check out their website. 

PHARMACY SERVICES

The HUHS Pharmacy is located in the Holyoke Center Arcade, adjacent to the main HUHS entrance. The Pharmacy can fill prescriptions written by a HUHS clinician, and offers a wide selection of non-prescription items at competitive prices. The HUHS Pharmacy has a 24-hour refill line, easy payment options (including term-billing), and is the only pharmacy where you can fill up to a 3-month supply of your prescription. The HUSHP Supplemental Plan includes coverage of most prescription medications with various co-payments; coverage limits do apply. For additional information, including special offers for students, please visit the website. 

DENTAL SERVICES

Good oral health care is essential to overall well-being. Harvard University Dental Services is conveniently located on the main campus and is open to all students on a fee-for-service basis. The Dental Service is a 12-chair practice staffed by general dentists, as well as specialty Board certified dentists and dental hygienists. It is a full-service practice offering:

• diagnostic and preventive care
• restorative care (including prosthetic, implant and cosmetic dentistry)
• endodontics (root canals)
• oral surgery
• pediatric dentistry
• periodontics

Emergency care is available every day of the year. Please visit www.huhs.harvard.edu for additional information and special offers for students. 

VISION CARE AND EYE SERVICES

HUHS optometrists, opticians, and specially-trained contact lens dispensers provide vision care services on a fee-for-service basis to those presenting a valid HUID card. Routine eye care is not covered under the Harvard University Student Health Plan (HUSHP), however students receive a discount on eye examinations. Students with vision problems may see an HUHS ophthalmologist by referral from a primary care provider (PCP).

The Eye Services Clinic at HUHS offers a range of vision care services for children and adults, including:

• Eye examinations
• Contact lens examinations, fitting service and training classes
• Ophthalmology services (by referral)

OPTICAL SHOP

The Optical Shop operates on a walk-in, fee-for-service basis, and is open to all those presenting a valid HUID card. The Optical Shop fills all valid eyeglass prescriptions less than one year old; an HUHS prescription is not required. Eyeglasses and contact lenses are not covered under the Harvard University Student Health Plan (HUSHP).

The HUHS Optical Shop offers a range of products and services including:

• Prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses
• Protective prescription eyewear for work, sports, and recreation (safety glasses, swim goggles)
• Computer glasses
• Adjustments and repairs

SPECIAL SUPPORT: LIFE RAFT

Life Raft is a weekly bereavement support group for students, faculty, and staff facing life-threatening illness or death, or the death of a loved one; it is also available to their family members and friends. Life Raft offers free, confidential contact by phone or in drop-in meetings every Wednesday from noon to 2:00 p.m. in the ground-floor conference room of Memorial Church. The Life Raft group includes members of various ages from all areas of the community; discussions are ongoing and there is no obligation for continuous attendance. For more information please call the Life Raft Coordinator, Barbara Gilmore, APRN, Mental Health Services, 617-495-2042.

AIDS SUPPORT GROUP

This discussion group is not currently meeting. Students who are interested should call Barbara Gilmore, MSN, RN, CS, at 617-495-2042. 

INTERNATIONAL OFFICE

Holyoke Center 864, 617-495-2789
Mon.–Fri., 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

The Harvard International Office serves the international community at Harvard by providing services for international students and scholars. These services include advice on immigration and visa regulations, orientation meetings, the Host Program for new graduate students, a tax software program, and information to help newcomers settle into life in Cambridge and Boston.

The Office also acts as a liaison between Harvard and various public and private agencies in matters affecting the University’s international students and scholars. The office supports the activities of various international clubs whose members include graduate and undergraduate students.

All newly admitted international students are required to check in with the HIO before registering in their schools. They should bring their passports and visa documents or other evidence of their immigration status to the HIO upon arrival at Harvard.

UNIVERSITY OMBUDSMAN OFFICE

Lydia Cummings, Ombudsman
Mon.–Fri., 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Holyoke Center Suite 748, 617-495-7748

The University Ombudsman Office is an independent resource for problem resolution serving the academic community. The office is available to all Harvard faculty, students, post-docs, research personnel, and staff. The ombudsman is confi­dential, neutral and independent. A visitor can discuss issues and concerns with the ombudsman without committing to further disclosure or any formal resolution. The ombudsman may assist individuals in finding solutions for problems that they may have been unable to resolve using existing channels. The ombudsman can help analyze and assess avenues for conflict resolution, including assistance with both written and verbal communications. Next steps are always determined by the visitor, depending on the circumstances and comfort with possible options. Provided all parties agree, the ombudsman may facilitate conversations through shuttle diplomacy, informal mediation, or be present in a discussion as a neutral. Typical issues may include academic and research disputes, advisor-student relationships, harassment, inappro­priate behavior, unprofessional conduct, disability or illness, problematic work climate, and resource referral.

The office supplements, but does not replace, any mechanisms for addressing grievances within GSAS and other parts of the University. The office has no power to adjudicate, arbitrate or to make formal investigations. The University Ombudsman Office officially reports to the Provost but is independent of any University administrative structure. Office operations are consistent with the code of ethics and the practices of The International Ombudsman Association.

OFFICE OF WORK/LIFE RESOURCES

Harvie.Harvard.edu
Holyoke Center 635, 617-495-4100

CHILD CARE

There are six separate tuition-funded day care centers at the University. The centers, which are fully licensed with high-quality professional staff, provide full-time or part-time care for 350 children of Harvard staff, faculty, and students and families in the surrounding community. The centers vary in philosophy, parent participation, schedules, tuition fees, and ages of the children. As separate, private, nonprofit corporations, they establish their own policies and budgets, and do their own hiring and enrollment. 

HARVARD SPOUSAL BENEFITS

Athletics

Spouses may purchase at the Murr Center the following cards for access to Harvard athletic facilities normally open to GSAS students. Ticket office phone number: 617­495-2211. Hours 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Monday–Friday.

Family Participation Cards: GSAS students may purchase term-long and summer family memberships for tax dependents as long as the student has a current and valid Harvard student I.D. card. There is a limit of four membership cards per family. Students should refer to the athletics department website, for more information.

All GSAS students are admitted to Harvard athletic events at a reduced price. Students should contact the ticket office for more information.

For further information, see Athletic Facilities, Chapter XII of this Handbook.

Library

STUDENT EMPLOYMENT

86 Brattle Street, 617-495-2585
Mon.–Fri., 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

CENTER FOR WORKPLACE DEVELOPMENT

124 Mt. Auburn Street, 3rd Floor
617-495-4895
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Harvard Center for Workplace Development (CWD) offers a wide range of general professional development courses to Harvard staff. Courses include managerial and supervisory skills, career development, and computer training. Most courses are repeated throughout the year, and registration and course descriptions are available online. 

RELIGIOUS ACTIVITIES

MEMORIAL CHURCH AND APPLETON CHAPEL

The Memorial Church, Ground Floor,
Harvard Yard, 617-495-5508
Office hours: Mon.–Fri., 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

The Memorial Church is Harvard’s University Church, dedicated on Armistice Day in 1932 as a gift of the alumni to the University in memory of those who lost their lives in the First World War. A Protestant non-denominational house of worship, The Memorial Church maintains a broad ecumenical program of worship, preaching, and teaching, a representation of Harvard’s recognition of the spiritual dimension of the life of the mind and of a community of inquiry. All members of the University, regardless of denomi­nation, are welcome, and internationally known clergy and religious leaders regularly preach from the pulpit. The church also serves as a resource for all religious life on campus, hosting events in the Faith and Life Forum, the annual William Belden Nobel lectures, and providing pastoral counseling services to all members of the University.

Services

A service of Morning Prayers is held at 8:45 a.m. Monday through Saturday during the academic year, with the principal worship service held at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday mornings. Once a month, a service of Compline is held on Thursday evening at 10:00 p.m. Based on the traditional evening liturgy of scripture, music, prayers, and silence, Compline is sung in the candlelit space of Appleton Chapel by members of the University Choir.

HARVARD CHAPLAINS AND HARVARD UNIVERSITY BOARD OF MINISTRY

The Memorial Church, Ground Floor, Harvard Yard, 617-495-5529
Mon.–Fri., 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

Harvard Chaplains is the umbrella organization of 38 chaplains representing 26 of the world’s religious (and one non-religious) traditions, united in their commitment to serving Harvard’s diverse student communities.

Members of the Harvard community are encouraged to contact the chaplains, who are available to meet and talk about spiritual concerns, and ethical and personal matters. Please visit our website for complete up-to-date information, news and events, and a full description of groups and worship services.

Staff Assistant, Board of Ministry and Harvard Chaplains: 617-495-5529

CHAPLAINS:

Services and Programs Part III