As TCU students begin study abroad programs around the world, they will likely come in contact with the H1N1 virus, as they have in the USA. Our onsite providers and partners have procedures for providing support to students in a variety of ways, and their H1N1 virus policies reflect an ongoing commitment to student health and safety abroad.

 

In addition, TCU provides students with membership to International SOS, a provider of worldwide travel, medical and security advice and services. TCU students have been instructed to register online with International SOS (www.internationalsos.com or 1-215-942-8826, member ID 11ASGC000004) for the past few years, and this year is no different. 

 

Undoubtedly, students will receive advice and instructions from our providers abroad, but SOS will deliver an additional level of care for TCU. SOS maintains 24-hour response centers, so students and parents have access to a consultation about health issues at any time. Furthermore, SOS provides a network of health providers, and they can help expedite care, including hospitalization for any reason, when needed.

 

Please be aware, however, that SOS is not health insurance and that all TCU students are required to provide evidence of health insurance prior to going abroad. In the event of hospitalization abroad, every effort will be made to contact parents first to determine the best method of payment. If a parent cannot be reached immediately, SOS will expedite care by paying on behalf of the student. (The amount owed to SOS will appear on the TCU student account for payment, unless the health care provider or parent pays SOS directly.)

 

TCU has found the services of SOS to be invaluable on several occasions, and we expect they will help with any issues related to H1N1 with the same diligence we have come to expect. A call to SOS provides not only advice, but also a network that manages health care issues 24 hours a day. Furthermore, SOS provides the platform for linking student, parents, TCU, study abroad providers and health care professionals when deemed necessary.