Getting Medical Attention
When you require medical attention, you MUST contact CIEE.
How do you find a doctor?
- Call CIEE for assistance
- Go online to find Doctors, Hospitals, Clinics, and Emergency Rooms
The quickest and most convenient way for you to get medical treatment for non-emergency situations is to go to a walk-in clinic or urgent care center. Benefits of these facilities include:
- They are open on weekends and often in the evenings
- The wait is usually much shorter than an emergency room
- The cost is less than visiting an emergency room
- You do not have to make an appointment nor have a relationship with the doctor to be seen and treated
Emergency rooms and hospitals are for life-threatening situations. If you feel your life is in danger, go directly to the closest hospital for treatment and contact CIEE as soon as possible. If you go to the emergency room for a non-emergency, you will most likely have to wait several hours to be seen and could incur higher costs than your co-pay. If you need to go to the hospital or clinic but it is not life-threatening, take transportation such as a cab, bus, or subway, or ask a friend to drive you. Ambulances are for medical emergencies only.
When do you call 911?
This is the emergency line in the U.S. that links directly to the local police station in your area. If you have an emergency and need assistance from the police or ambulance, dial 911. Do not call this number if it is not an emergency;in some cities, you could be fined.
Medicine
- If you currently take medication and will continue this medication while on the program, you should bring enough to last the duration of the program, and you should have all these products properly packaged and labeled before leaving your home country. Please check with your local embassy about any specific documents you may need to enter the U.S. with this medication.
- If you lose or run out of your medication, you will have to visit a U.S. doctor. Your prescription from home is not valid in the US. CIEE recommends you bring enough medication for the duration of your program. Note that the dispensing of birth control is not a free service in the United States, nor is it covered by your insurance.
- If you need medicine after you arrive in the U.S., please contact CIEE for additional assistance.
Dentist
Your policy has limited dental coverage. CIEE recommends seeing a dentist prior to coming on your program. For complete dental coverage information please visit the insurance website at: www.ciee.org/insurance.
In an emergency situation (you are being or have been a victim of a crime, accident, or fire,) dial 911 for the police or other emergency services. Make sure you answer all questions clearly and carefully.