Health Services
The mission of the Clinic is to provide medical services for injuries and illnesses; to promote healthy lifestyles; and to demonstrate care in a Christ-like manner to the students, faculty, and staff of Union University.
- Location: PAC F-62A (at the south end of the F Hallway)
- Hours: M–F, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Lunch hour varies depending on daily needs). Please contact us to schedule an appointment prior to your visit.
- Who Is Eligible: Union faculty, staff & currently enrolled students
- Who Is Not Eligible: Spouses, dependents & alumni
- Contact Us: clinic@uu.edu; 731-661-5284; 731-661-5499 (fax)
Request An Appointment
For appointments, it is recommended to email the health clinic at clinic@uu.edu to schedule an appointment. You may also call the clinic at 731-661-5284 to request an appointment. Appointments will be given at the next available appointment. The Union University Health Clinic staff will receive this request and will reply accordingly. All information will be kept confidential per HIPAA laws.
If you are having a medical emergency, dial 911, or go to the nearest Emergency Room.
If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, please call or text the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988, dial 911, or go immediately to the nearest hospital emergency room for evaluation.
For emergency assistance on campus, you may contact Safety & Security at 731-394-2922 (24/7 mobile line).
Meet the Staff
Cathy Ammerman
Professor of Nursing
Cathy Ammerman
Professor of Nursing
Jennifer Chicantek
Medical Assistant/Health Records Coordinator, Health Services
Jennifer Chicantek
Medical Assistant/Health Records Coordinator, Health Services
Chris Lewis
Health Services Medical Director
Chris Lewis
Health Services Medical Director
Jennifer Pagoaga
Director of Health Services
Jennifer Pagoaga
Director of Health Services
Forms
Medical Record Requests Sent from Union
Union University holds clinic health records on all university students for ten years. If you need a copy of your record, we must have the release of information form filled out and faxed back to us at 731.661.5499. Upon receiving the release of information form, please allow two business days to process.
Medical Record Requests Sent to Union
If you need a copy of your medical record sent to Union, please send this release of information form to your healthcare provider to facilitate this request.
Health History
Please fill out this form prior to your visit to the Health Clinic to avoid having to fill it out in the lobby.
Vaccination/Immunization Forms
The Tennessee Department of Health has immunization requirements for those who attend college. In compliance with this law, and in an attempt to maintain a safe and healthy campus environment for our students, faculty, and staff, Union University requires that all entering students provide documented proof of having immunity or having been immunized for MMR, Varicella, and Meningitis ACYW unless medically contraindicated.
Allergy Injection Policy
The Student Health Clinic will administer allergy injections to Union students with the following provision on file:
- Written orders from your allergist who has provided the appropriate serum.
- Your signature on the allergy injection policy form.
- If student, must be enrolled in current semester.
Psychostimulant Medications
If you have been prescribed a psychostimulant medication for the treatment of ADD, ADHD or other condition, the Student Health Clinic can administer your medication by filling out this form.
Equipment Rentals
For injuries such as sprains, strains, and fractures, we offer crutches and wheelchairs for loan through our Health Center. An agreement is signed with a due date and charges are made to students’ account if an item is not returned on time or in good condition.
Emergency & After-Hour Care
During the hours when the Student Health Clinic is closed you may need medical attention.
Emergencies
If you are having a life-threatening emergency, call 911.
When should I go to the emergency room?
If you are having any of the following: chest pain, shortness of breath or labored breathing, profuse bleeding, a broken bone, severe allergic reaction, sudden or progressing abdominal pain, diarrhea or vomiting over 36 hours, sudden vision change, worsening or new headache, severe pain, or high fever (>104 F).
If you have health insurance, take your health insurance card with you and know what services your insurance provides. The phone number on the back of your card will let you know of preferred facilities and providers. If you are transported to a hospital by ambulance, you will be charged. This is not a free service. Consider visiting a walk-in clinic for non-life-threatening illnesses. (listed below).
If you do not have insurance, the visit will not be free. The hospital will bill you for your visit.
Jackson-Madison County General Hospital
620 Skyline Drive
Jackson, TN 38301
Phone: 731-541-5000
Distance from Union University: (4.4 miles approximate Travel Time: 13 mins.)
West Tennessee Healthcare North Hospital
367 Hospital Boulevard
Jackson, TN 38305
Phone: 731-661-2000
Distance from Union University: (0.7 miles Approximate Travel Time: 5 mins.)
Walk-In Clinics
Vaccinations
The Tennessee Department of Health has immunization requirements for those who attend college. In compliance with this law, and in an attempt to maintain a safe and healthy campus environment for our students, faculty, and staff, Union University requires that all entering students provide documented proof of having immunity or having been immunized for MMR, Varicella, and Meningitis ACYW unless medically contraindicated. In such cases, a qualified physician shall certify that administration of such immunization would be harmful to the student involved. Parents or guardians (or the student if over 18 years old) may file a statement with Union Health Services that the immunizations and other preventative measures conflict with the parents', guardians', or individual's religious tenets and practices, affirmed under the penalties of perjury. (TCA Section 49-6-5001).
Required Vaccinations
Union University and Tennessee Department of Health REQUIRES proof of the following vaccines:
- 2 doses of MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) administered on or after the first birthday or a positive serology test proving immunity of all 3 illnesses.
- 2 doses of Varicella (chickenpox) administered after the first birthday and at least 28 days apart (or if student has a history of chickenpox, he/she can submit a positive serology test proving immunity of Varicella.)
- 1 Meningitis ACWY dose AFTER their 16th birthday.
If you have proof of your required vaccinations, please submit your records as directed on this page.
If vaccinations or proof of vaccinations are still needed, please provide the following form to your healthcare provider for completion.
How to Submit Your Immunization Documents
There are 4 ways to submit your immunization documents:
- Submit the documents online in the Immunization Records Submission Form.
- You may email these documents to clinic@uu.edu.
- You may mail or fax a copy of these documents to Union University Health Services:
Union University Health Services
Attn: Jenn Chicantek
UU Box# 1916
1050 Union University Drive
Jackson, TN 38305
Fax# 731-661-5499 - You may bring your documents to the clinic during summer orientation. (Please note, records must be collected prior to move-in day.)
Recommended Vaccinations
These vaccinations are not required but recommended.
- Meningococcal Serotype B
- HPV
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Tetanus-Diptheria-Pertussis (Td or Tdap within past 10 years)
- COVID19
- Influenza
Vaccines Offered in Health Services
Payment will be due at the time of vaccination. We can give you a receipt if you wish to submit a claim for reimbursement since we do not bill insurance. We offer the following vaccinations at Union University Health Services to students, faculty, and staff. For other immunizations, we recommend the Jackson Madison County Regional Health Department or local pharmacy. Other vaccines may be available to order.
Confidentiality & Request for Records
HIPAA
This notice describes how medical information about you may be used and disclosed and how you can get access to this information.
Understanding Your Health Information:
Each time you visit a clinician, or other healthcare provider, a record of your visit is made. Typically, this record contains your symptoms, examination and test results, diagnoses, treatment, and plan for future care or treatment. Being aware of what is in your health record will help you to make more informed decisions when authorizing disclosure to others.
Your Health Information Rights
Although your health record is the physical property of Union University Student Health Services, the health information it contains belongs to you. You have the right to:
- Inspect and obtain a copy of your health information; there are a few exceptions and copy charges may apply.
- Request to amend your health information.
- Revoke your authorization to use or disclose health information except to the extent that action has already been taken prior to revocation.
- Request a restriction on certain otherwise permitted uses and disclosures of your information; however, we are not required to agree in all circumstances.
- Request a written accounting of disclosures of your health information for the previous six years but not before April 14, 2003 for disclosures other than those made to you for treatment, payment, or healthcare operations or other limited exceptions.
- Request communications of your health information by alternative means or at alternative locations and to obtain a paper copy of this notice upon request.
If you wish to exercise any of these rights, please contact the Student Health Services Director at 731-661-5284 or clinic@uu.edu.
Request for Health Records
Union University holds clinic health records on all university students for ten years. If you need a copy of your record, we must have the release of information form filled out and faxed back to us at 731.661.5499. Upon receiving the release of information form, please allow two business days to process.
Helpful Resources
Overview
Listed below are links to other places of interest on the web. The purpose of these links is to provide access to information for educational purposes only. Student Health Services does not guarantee the accuracy of material contained in other links. The information provided through these links should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have, or suspect you have, a health problem, you should consult a health care provider.
- WebMD
- MedicineNet
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- CDC recommended vaccinations when traveling to other countries
- MedlinePlus
Numbers You Need To Know
- Emergency 911
- Campus Security: 731.394.2922
- Poison Control: 1.800.222.1222
- Crisis Services & Suicide Prevention: 855.274.7471 or Text 741-741
- Jackson Police Department: 731.425.8400
All of the above numbers listed are available 24/7
Birth Choice Clinic
Birth Choice Clinic offers free and completely confidential pregnancy testing and ultrasounds to confirm pregnancy. Their friendly staff is available to listen and give information on all pregnancy options. This is a great resource for anyone facing an unexpected pregnancy. No insurance required.
Jackson Office:
391 Wallace Road, Jackson, TN 38305
731-664-8443 | help@birthchoice.us
yourprivatechoice.net
Benalign
College Student Health Benefits Program For Full-time and Part-time Students
Union University is partnering with Benalign to offer our students easy access to a perks and non-traditional benefits program. Benalign offers access to consumer discounts and perks AND curated, voluntary insured and non-insured benefits, designed to help students with daily living, as well as when it’s time for a major expense.
FAQs
- Do I need to make an appointment?
Yes, to limit illness exposure to both patients and staff, appointments are recommended. Please call 731.661.5284 or email clinic@uu.edu. Walk-in patients will be scheduled at the next available appointment. - Is there a charge/fee to be seen at the clinic?
Union University offers health services as a benefit to currently enrolled students, faculty, and staff. However, there is a nominal charge for labs, medications, immunizations, and tests if performed during the visit. - What is a nurse practitioner?
A nurse practitioner is a healthcare provider with a master’s degree in nursing and advanced clinical training. Nurse Practitioners can provide the following types of services:- Obtain medical histories and perform physical examinations.
- Diagnose and treat both acute and chronic health problems.
- Order and interpret diagnostic studies such as lab work and x-rays.
- Prescribe and recommend medications.
- Provide health counseling and education.
- In the state of Tennessee, nurse practitioners have collaborating physicians who are available for consultations when necessary and review a minimum of 20% of patient records. Practice protocols and a drug formulary are jointly agreed upon between the nurse practitioner and collaborating physician.
- I missed a test (or classes) yesterday (or a few days ago). Can you write me a note?
We do not provide excuses for missed classes. It is expected that you discuss your absences with your professors. If verification is needed that you sought medical treatment, we will supply you with a receipt of your visit showing you were seen in the clinic; however, this is not an excuse for class, chapel, or any other function with required attendance. If you are diagnosed with an illness that requires you to stay out of class to protect the public, (i.e. mono, covid19, flu, strep), we will notify your professors by giving them an estimated return date. However, we do not disclose what you have been diagnosed with. - Do you accept health insurance?
No, we do not file health insurance here at the clinic. However, we can give you a receipt of services rendered so that you can file a claim with your insurance company. - Is health insurance offered by Union?
While health insurance is not offered by the University, we have partnered with Benalign to offer affordable insurance for our students. Please see the Benalign section above for more details. - Is there an after-hour on call number?
No, the clinic is open Monday – Friday from 8:00am – 4:00pm. You would need to go to one of the walk-in clinics near campus. Please refer to Emergency & After Hours Care. - I think I may have Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). What can I do to get medication or accommodations?
First, you will need to schedule a counseling services appointment. Counseling Services will be able to perform a series of tests to determine if you have ADD or ADHD. If you are diagnosed with ADD or ADHD, Counseling Services may refer you to Health Services and the provider can discuss medication options if desired. - What if I was tested as a child or diagnosed with ADHD by my primary care provider?
The policy of University Health Services is to obtain the proper documentation of ADD/ADHD diagnosis before prescribing ADD/ADHD medication. If current documentation or re-evaluation is needed, the student will be asked to schedule an appointment with Counseling Services. - What is a titer?
A titer is a blood draw that will be sent off to a lab to determine if you have immunity to a particular disease. Please refer to our fees for services section on our webpage for pricing. - What if I have a negative Hep B Titer or do not convert to positive after my series of three shots?
The center for disease control and prevention (CDC) recommends that if a person fails to convert after the three-shot series, the series should be repeated once. If the repeat titer remains negative, no further shots are recommended. - Why am I required to have the varicella antibody titer if I know I had chicken pox as a child?
In the state of Tennessee, you must provide proof of immunity to varicella for college entry. Immunity status can be determined by a simple blood test which is offered at Health Services (varicella antibody titer). If you have a negative titer, you are not considered immune to this virus, and therefore, you will be asked to update your immunization status by receiving the varicella vaccines. - Do I have to get a meningitis shot?
There are two separate meningitis vaccines available. The Meningococcal ACWY immunization is required by the state of Tennessee for college entry. The Meningitis B immunization is recommended (especially if living on campus) but not required. - What will happen if I do not complete all my vaccines before the semester begins?
Students whose immunization status has not been verified by Health Services will not be allowed to move onto campus until proper documentation has been obtained. If you are in the process of completing a vaccine series, a health hold will be placed upon your student account, and you will not be able to register for your next semester classes until your immunization status has been verified. - Do I have to get a TB Skin Test?
A TB skin test may not be necessary; however, every student must complete a TB screening questionnaire (also found on our Vaccinations page). If the screening tool determines you are at risk for possible exposure to tuberculosis, a TB skin test will be required, and Health Services will make that determination. TB skin tests are given at the Health Clinic for $20.00. Please call to schedule an appointment if needed. - How do I make a counseling appointment?
There are several ways to request an appointment. First, you can visit the counseling services appointment form. You can also call 731-661-5284 to make an appointment or email counseling@uu.edu and someone will respond to your request. - How do I get my prescriptions?
Prescriptions are sent to the pharmacy electronically and should be available for pickup the same day as appointment. - Are you testing for COVID-19?
Yes, as of August 2021, we are testing for COVID-19 at Health Services. An appointment is required. - Do you offer the COVID-19 vaccine?
Unfortunately, we do not have the COVID-19 vaccine available on site at the health clinic. We suggest going to the Jackson Madison County Regional Health Department to receive your COVID-19 vaccine or to a local pharmacy. - Is the COVID-19 vaccine a requirement to attend Union University?
No, although we recommend the COVID-19 vaccine, it is not a requirement to attend Union University. If you are asked to quarantine due to exposure, proof of immunization is required to avoid quarantine. - How do I request medication refills?
Some medications require appointments prior to a refill being issued. Please contact clinic@uu.edu or call 731-661-5284 to request a refill or to determine if an appointment is needed.