Student Development

As a part of the Department of Student Development and University Housing, the Office of Disability Services (ODS) assists students with disabilities in their college life experience through an integration of on-campus services.

Located in LeConte College, Room 106, the staff is available to assist students in coordinating and obtaining services available through a variety of University departments and service areas. Call 777-6742 for more information.

Deaf/Hard of Hearing
Those deaf/hard of hearing students who use sign language are provided interpreters for any University sponsored program or service. The office of Disability Services contracts with appropriate agencies for interpreting services.

Students who do not use sign language are provided note takers. It is recommended that students present their academic schedules to the Office of Disability Services early in the semester.

The ODS Office maintains a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD), and it is available for student use in making local calls. Call 777-6744 or 777-6742 (voice) for more information.

Learning Disabilities
Students with learning disabilities are eligible for a variety of resources designed to accommodate their learning needs, based on current documentation of their disability.

Mobility Impaired
USC is program-accessible to mobility impaired students. Limited modified housing is available in various residence halls across the campus. Adapted transportation is available for mobility impaired students to all academically related activities from 8am - 5pm Monday through Friday.

Visually Impaired
The Office of Disability Services provides assistance to students with visual impairment. Readers and note-takers are recruited as requested by students each semester. Books may be ordered by students from Recordings for the Blind Dyslexic, and information about other library services is provided upon request.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 6.00

The University of South Carolina’s policy is to provide students a prompt and equitable method of resolving complaints alleging any action prohibited by the U.S. Department of Education regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (29 U.S.C. 794) and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) states, in part, that “an individual with a disability” is a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a “major life activity,” has a record of such an impairment, or is regarded as having such an impairment. The ADA requires that public entities “must ensure that individuals with disabilities are not excluded from services, programs, and activities because buildings are inaccessible”.

Procedures
Student complaints of discrimination based on a disability must be forwarded in writing to the Director of Educational Support Services, 106 LeConte, Columbia, SC 29208. For additional information, call 777-6142.

A complaint must be filed in writing within 15 working days after the complainant becomes aware of the alleged violation. If the complainant needs assistance composing the complaint, appropriate assistance may be arranged through the Office of Educational Support Services.

An appropriate investigation shall follow the filing of a complaint. The investigation shall be conducted by the Director of Educational Support Services. The investigation may be conducted informally but will be thorough, affording all interested persons and their representatives, if any, an opportunity to submit evidence relevant to the complaint.

A written determination of the validity of the complaint and a description of the resolution, if any, shall be issued by the Director of Educational Support Services and forwarded to the complainant as soon as the investigation is concluded, normally no later than 30 working days after the filing of the complaint.

The Section 504 and ADA coordinator for students on the Columbia campus shall maintain the files and records of Section 504 and ADA complaints filed by students at USC Columbia. In addition, such files and records necessary for system-wide Section 504 and ADA monitoring and reporting purposes shall be maintained by the Office of Equal Opportunity Programs.

The complainant may request a reconsideration of the investigation if dissatisfied with the resolution. The request for reconsideration must be made in writing to the Office of Equal Opportunity Programs, 900 Assembly Street, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, within 10 working days of the complainant’s receipt of the notification of the resolution. For additional information, call 777-3854.

The right to a prompt and equitable resolution of the complaint filed hereunder shall not be impaired by the person’s pursuit of other remedies such as the filing of a Section 504 and ADA complaint with the appropriate state or federal department or agency.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 6.01

Adapted Housing - Personal Care Attendant Policy
In accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the University of South Carolina provides adapted housing for students with physical disabilities. Students with physical disabilities who have been fully admitted to the University must make their needs for adapted housing known to the Department of Housing and provide documentation of the disability justifying the need for adapted housing to the Office of Disability Services. If a student with a physical disability requires minor changes in a room to accommodate special needs, the Office of Disability Services will recommend the needed adaptations to the Department of Housing and Judicial Programs.

Housing is assigned on a first come, first served basis with consideration given to a student’s physical disability or disabilities and needs for adapted housing. Available adapted rooms will remain reserved until July first. The Department of Housing and Judicial Programs and the Office of Disability Services coordinate all room assignments for students with physical disabilities needing or requiring adapted housing.

Personal Care Attendant
The Office of Disability Services has the responsibility to verify disabilities in order to protect the health and safety of the students with disabilities and others. To live in University housing, students with disabilities who need personal care attendants are required to have an attendant to assist with day-to-day living activities such as dressing, transfers to and from wheelchairs, light cleaning, bathing, errands, feeding, and toilet routine.

The University recognizes that the individual needs of students vary greatly and that no two students have exactly the same needs. If an attendant is required in order to maintain daily independent living, the Office of Disability Services can refer students with disabilities to appropriate agencies. For additional information, call 777-6742.

Once an attendant has been employed, the student with a disability is responsible for ensuring that the attendant fulfills the employment agreement. The student must provide the Office of Disability Services a copy of the contract between the student and the personal care attendant or agency and must notify Disability Services of any changes in the contract.

The Office of Disability Services reserves the right to make periodic health and safety inspections to ensure compliance with health and safety standards. Failure to adhere to this policy may result in termination of on-campus housing privileges. In accordance with Title III, Section 36.208 of the Americans with Disabilities Act 28 C.F.R. (ADA), the University reserves the right to initiate procedures to terminate the University Housing Agreement because of a “direct threat” to the health or safety of the students with disabilities or others.

Appeals Process
Appeals under the Personal Care Attendant policy must be made in writing in accordance with the following procedures:

Complaints must be forwarded in writing to the Director of Educational Support Services, 106 LeConte, Columbia, SC 29208. For additional information, call 777-6742.

A complaint must be filed in writing within fifteen (15) working days after the complainant becomes aware of the alleged violation. If the complainant needs assistance composing the complaint, appropriate assistance may be arranged through the Office of Educational Support Services.

An appropriate investigation shall follow the filing of a complaint. The investigation shall be conducted by the Director of Educational Support Services to determine if a risk exists or whether reasonable modifications can mitigate the risk. The investigation may be conducted informally but will be thorough, affording all interested persons and their representatives, if any, an opportunity to submit evidence relevant to the complaint.

A written determination of the validity of the complaint and a description of the resolution, if any, shall be issued by the Director of Educational Support Services and forwarded to the complainant as soon as the investigation is concluded, normally no later than 30 working days after the filing of the complaint.

The Section 504 and ADA coordinator for students on the Columbia campus shall maintain the files and records of Section 504 and ADA complaints filed by students at USC Columbia. In addition, such files and records necessary for system-wide Section 504 and ADA monitoring and reporting purposes shall be maintained by the Office of Equal Opportunity Programs.

The complainant may request a reconsideration of the complaint if dissatisfied with the resolution. The request for reconsideration must be made in writing to the Office of Equal Opportunity Programs, 900 Assembly Street, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, within 10 working days of the complainant’s receipt of notification of the resolution. For additional information, call 777-3854.

The right to a prompt and equitable resolution of the complaint filed hereunder shall not be impaired by the person’s pursuit of other remedies such as the filing of a Section 504 and ADA complaint with the appropriate state or federal department or agency.

 

Student Affairs Policy STAF 6.02

An increasing number of individuals with specific learning disabilities are seeking admission to colleges and universities. Their quest for postsecondary education has been assured through Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, which state that no qualified person with a disability shall, on the basis of disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity which receives or benefits from Federal assistance.

College students with specific learning disabilities are among those who are entitled to the same rights and protections as other students with more obvious handicapping conditions. The University of South Carolina is committed to serving those students with specific learning disabilities who have the potential for success in a competitive university setting.

Since the nature and severity of a specific learning disability may vary considerably, the recommended support services and accommodations may be applicable only when they are appropriate to the needs of the individual student with a specific learning disability. All requests for accommodations must be consistent with an academic advisory plan on file with the Office of Educational Support Services and the dean of the student’s college.

Definition of Learning Disability
The University of South Carolina has adopted the federal definition of learning disabilities (as stated in Public Law 94-142), which states that “...[students]... with specific learning disabilities are those ...[individuals]... who have a disorder in one or more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding or in using language, spoken or written, which disorder may manifest itself in an imperfect ability to listen, think, speak, read, write, spell or do mathematical calculations. Such disorders include such conditions as perceptual handicaps, brain injury, minimal brain dysfunction, dyslexia, and developmental aphasia. ...[The term learning disability does not include]...problems which are primarily the result of visual, hearing, or motor handicaps, of mental retardation, of emotional disturbance, or of environmental, cultural, or economic disadvantage.”

While the University of South Carolina has voluntarily adopted the federal definition of learning disabilities as stated in Public Law 94-142, it is explicitly noted that this federal statute does not govern institutions of higher education nor accommodations made at this University. The University is responsible for compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Diagnosis of a specific learning disability should be made in accordance with standards of the psychological and special education professions.

Admission of Students with Specific Learning Disabilities
Students with specific learning disabilities apply and are considered for admission to the University in the same manner as any other applicant and must meet the same admission standards. Applicants may submit scores from a nonstandard (e.g., untimed) administration of the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) to be used in evaluation of credentials for admission.

Upon acceptance, students with specific learning disabilities may gain access to support programs by providing the following documentation of their disability to the Office of Educational Support Services:
• A complete psychoeducational evaluation conducted within the past three years by a certified/licensed school psychologist.
• Verification that the student was diagnosed and received services as a student with a specific learning disability.

If these criteria cannot be satisfied, students may present the results of a current evaluation performed by a licensed school or clinical psychologist to the Office of Educational Support Services for verification of a specific learning disability.

Students already enrolled at the University of South Carolina who suspect that they have a learning disability should seek assistance from the Office of Educational Support Services, where they can be referred to a licensed school or clinical psychologist. The results of the evaluation must be submitted to the Office of Educational Support Services for verification of learning disability status.

Recommended Support Services for Students with Specific Learning Disabilities
The following are services that the University should provide for students with specific learning disabilities if consistent with an academic advisory plan on file with the Office of Educational Support Services and the dean of the student’s college:
• Academic counseling, advisement, and advocacy
• Personal/interpersonal and career counseling
• Study skills training
• Tutor referrals
• Progress monitoring and evaluation
• Textbooks and supplementary readings on tape (when appropriate).
• Note takers and readers (when appropriate).

These services are offered by the Educational Support Services unit of the Department of Student Development and University Housing and coordinated with other University service areas.

Recommended Program Accommodations for Students with Specific Learning Disabilities
The following program accommodations are suggested for implementation by the University if consistent with an academic advisory plan on file with the Office of Educational Support Services and the dean of the student’s college:
• Allow students with specific learning disabilities to take a reduced course load of nine semester hours or more for the fall or spring semester and three hours in any summer session to be considered a full-time student with regard to access to University residence halls and eligibility for financial aid provided this is consistent with their academic advisory plans.
• Allow students with specific learning disabilities to audit a course before taking it for credit.
• Allow students with specific learning disabilities to take an incomplete in a course due to their need for additional time.
• Allow students with specific learning disabilities to withdraw from a course at any time during the term without grade penalty, upon approval of the Office of Educational Support Services, the instructor, and the dean of the student’s college.
• Expand Pass/Fail option to cover courses that are particularly problematic for students with specific learning disabilities.

Recommended Classroom Accommodations for Students with Specific Learning Disabilities
It is recommended that instructors consult with the Educational Support Services staff concerning the specific needs of individual students with specific learning disabilities. The following classroom accommodations should be allowed for students with specific learning disabilities, if consistent with an academic advisory plan on file with the Office of Educational Support Services and the dean of the student’s college:
• Use of tape recorders for note taking
• Alternative test procedures such as extra time to complete tests, oral administration of tests and exams, or permission to take exams in a separate room with a proctor
• Alternative assignments (differing in form, not in substance)
• Oral presentation of written assignments, when appropriate
• Access to calculators and dictionaries in the classroom and in test situations when appropriate
• Ongoing and more active monitoring of progress and student feedback since many students with specific learning disabilities are reluctant to initiate assistance
+ Detailed syllabi and written handouts with instructions for major papers and projects. Students with specific learning disabilities should also be encouraged to participate in study groups. These strategies involve sound teaching practices for all students, but are especially important for students with specific learning disabilities.
Acknowledgment: These recommendations were developed by the Faculty Task Force on Students with Learning Disabilities appointed on September 6, 1989 by the Executive Vice President and Provost. Task Force recommendations were considered by the Faculty Senate that approved specific changes in the Undergraduate Bulletin. The balance of this report was then accepted and adopted by the Executive Vice President and Provost.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 6.40

The University of South Carolina requires international applicants to present documentation of financial resources adequate to cover all of their expenses at the University. This policy ensures USC’s compliance with the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service’s requirement that schools admitting international students certify that those admitted have sufficient sources of income to pursue a full course of study. The International Student Services office is responsible for verifying financial certification.

Procedure
International Student Services prepares annual estimates of the cost of attending USC Columbia. The estimates specify the cost of tuition, housing, required fees, and living expenses. These estimates, along with financial certification forms, are distributed to all international applicants.
All international applicants are required to submit the financial certification form to International Programs, accompanied by original bank statements or other proof of adequate financial resources. Each student’s financial certification form and supporting documents are reviewed within the office and, if acceptable, the appropriate U.S. immigration document (I-20 or IAP-66 form) is issued to the student.

When financial or political conditions of a country result in persistent failure of substantial numbers of students to pay tuition or to receive funds for living expenses, the University may require advance payment of fees before issuing immigration documents to these students.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 6.41

In accord with policy established by the Board of Trustees, the University requires all international students enrolled in a permanent or other selective admission category on the USC Columbia campus to pay an enrollment fee to cover a portion of the cost of special services provided to them.

A person shall be considered a student if enrolled in any credit course offered by USC on the Columbia campus.

An international student will be assessed the fee unless specifically exempted.

Exemptions from payment of the fee may be granted to an international student on the basis of any of the following conditions:

1. Transient (one whose visa sponsorship and home institution is a school other than USC even though student is enrolled for a short period of study at USC);
2. Participants in formally approved, reciprocal exchanges;
3. Students whose course of study is entirely outside the U.S.;
4. Students enrolled through APOGEE or Professional MBA Program;
5. Students holding non-immigrant visas other than F-1 or J-1 or students on F-1 or J-1 practical training under another institution’s sponsorship may be exempted if USC attendance is incidental to their practical training; and
6. Students who are permanent residents (immigrants) of the U.S. or have been approved for permanent residence*

* Acceptable proof of permanent resident status is limited to presentation of an Alien Registration Receipt Card (Form I-551), Memorandum of Creation of Permanent Residence (I-181) or official INS stamp in the bearer’s passport indicating that the application of permanent residence has been approved and issuance of the I-551 requested. Individuals whose applications for permanent residence have not been approved are officially considered non-immigrants and are subject to payment of the enrollment fee.

The exemption is limited solely to the period of time the student remains in any of these categories.

Should a student’s status change and the fee becomes applicable it will be assessed at the next registration period.

Procedure
The fee shall be assessed one time only, regardless of the student’s movement from one degree level to another (e.g., from a Bachelor’s to a Master’s degree) or from one program to another at the same degree level.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 6.42

International students in non-resident immigration status who are registered for classes at USC Columbia are required to have adequate health insurance coverage. Because health care in the United States is very expensive and because international students are not eligible for care at public expense, health insurance is considered to be a necessary expense for international students while they are enrolled at this University.

International students are free to select either the University’s student health insurance policy or other policies that offer adequate coverage. Medical evacuation to the home country and repatriation in the event of death should be included in the policy selected. In addition, those students who are on J-1 visas are required by the United States Information Agency (USIA) to meet certain levels of coverage, including major medical coverage of at least $50,000.

Procedure
International students should be informed in writing of the policy upon admission to the University as part of the pre-departure materials they receive from the office of International Student Services

At the beginning of each semester, international students will be notified of the requirement to document their coverage by submitting the name of the insurance provider and policy number to the office of International Student Services.

The names of those students who do not meet the insurance compliance requirement will be forwarded each semester by the office of International Student Services to the Student Health Center. An enrollment hold barring a student’s future enrollment will be imposed. The hold can be removed only when a student provides documentation of health insurance to the Student Health Center.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 7.01

Columbia Campus Students

Visitors: All visitors who are injured or become ill while on the campus of the University of South Carolina may be provided assistance at the Thomson Student Health Services facilities Center. Definitive medical care is not provided to visitors. The Primary Care Partners Clinic is located in the Student Health Center and will see visitors and guests on a fee-for-services basis

Non-Emergency Conditions: Visitors who present at Thomson Student Health Services Center requesting health care will be informed that definitive care is not provided for visitors. provided triage care (minor first aid). Non-emergency visitors may be provided referral assistance who need further care will be referred to the Primary Care Partners Clinic or other community provider of the visitor’s choice. local emergency rooms or a provider of the visitor’s choice. The Health Center will provide triage Palliative care and minor first aid care may be provided at no charge while referral assistance is in progress.

Emergency Conditions: County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) will be called for visitors who present at the Student Health Services Center with emergency or other urgent medical conditions requiring immediate definitive care. Thomson Student Health Services Center will provide supportive care while awaiting transportation to another facility. Any required care provided by the Health Center that exceeds minor first aid triage care wi ll may be billed at normal student rates. Visitors are responsible for reimbursement for all care provided by other providers.

Visitors are responsible for payment of all charges for care and treatment.

Spouses of Students

Spouses of eligible students may seek care at Thomson Student Health Center on a fee-for-service basis. Services for spouses are provided on a space available basis. Students have priority for care.

Spouses must present a University spouse I.D. card or other acceptable proof of identity and spousal status.

Summer Groups

Summer groups participating in University sponsored activities are eligible for treatment on a fee-for service basis. All services are provided on a space available basis.

Group sponsors wishing to use Thomson Student Health Services Center must register, in advance, and execute an agreement concerning provision of and payment for services. Contact the Health Center Business Office, 777-3174, for information and forms.

The sponsoring group will be billed for charges incurred by members of their group that are not covered or paid by group insurance plans, or not paid by the patient at the time of service.
a. TSHC will may file for payment for services rendered that are covered by the group’ s health insurance plan. TSHC will not bill other third party payers, parents, or other individuals or agencies for payment of health services provided to sponsored summer group members.
b. TSHC is not a licensed Medicaid or Medicare provider and has no authority to bill those programs for health care services.

Unless specific fee schedules are established, All TSHC services Student Health Services charges will be billed at based on regular student fee-for-service rates. Eligibility of summer groups for treatment at TSHC does not include any entitlement to supplemental student health insurance.

On a case-by-case basis, the Director, Student Health Services, may adjust or modify standing eligibility and charge policies and procedures to meet unusual or special circumstances.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 7.02

Eligibility
USC students who were eligible for health care during the Spring semester, or an earlier current summer session, and are eligible to enroll in the Fall semester, retain their eligibility to receive care at Thomson Student Health Center on a fee-for-service basis during the summer months. Summer eligibility includes Spring or Summer graduates who have been accepted for enrollment in USC graduate schools for the Fall semester. Eligibility will be verified against student databases before services are provided. Personal identification by student I.D. card or other acceptable picture I.D. is required. Students eligible for care under this policy are not entitled to purchase student health insurance, or to coverage under the supplemental student health insurance plan. Eligibility of all students seeking care will be verified. In order to qualify under extended Summer eligibility rules, a non-enrolled student must be eligible to enroll in the Fall semester and meet at least one of the following criteria:
1. was eligible for Student Health Services during the preceding Spring semester; or
2. was enrolled in either the Maymester or the Summer I session. All services provided under Summer eligibility rules will be on a fee-for-service basis. Payment will be obtained in advance. No charges to Accounts Receivable will be allowed. Cost
All health care services will be provided under this policy on a fee-for-service basis at rates charged students who have not paid the University fee. No charges to student accounts are authorized for services provided under this policy. All fees are payable at the time services are provided.Advance payment of Fall activity fees does not entitle a student to free care during the Summer sessions. Summer eligibility only applies between the end of the Spring semester and the beginning of registration for the Fall semester.

Winter Break: Students eligible for care during the Fall academic session are eligible for care during Winter Break. Winter Break eligibility starts on the day after the residence halls close in December and ends at midnight on the day before the halls officially open in January. Charges will be based on the student’s Fall semester Health Fee payment status.

Summer Break: Students who were eligible for health care during the Spring semester, or an earlier current summer session, and who have not graduated are eligible for services during the summer months. Unless the provider directed rule applies, all services will be provided on a fee-for-service basis. Summer break period begins on the day after residence halls close at the end of the Spring semester and ends at midnight on the day before residence halls officially open for the Fall semester.

Eligibility will be verified against student databases before services are provided. Personal identification by student I.D. card or other acceptable picture I.D. is required.

Students will not routinely be allowed to place charges on their student account for health services provided between academic periods. The Director, Student Health Services, may approve account charges in unusual circumstances.

Eligibility to use Student Health Services will be extended for USC graduates to provide a transition period after graduation. This extension ensures reasonable time for appropriate disposition of ongoing care, and provides new graduates opportunity to continue access to primary care prior to starting employment or relocating. The Director, Student Health Services, will identify the extension period for each graduation date.

Eligibility to use Student Health Services may be extended, on a case-by-case basis, to students who are forced to withdraw from the University for medical reasons or other honorable conditions.

Extended eligibility will not be granted to students who withdraw under less than honorable conditions, including academic ineligibility or disciplinary reasons.

Any extensions granted that relate to withdrawals apply only to the remainder of the academic term during which the student withdraws.

Unless provider direct return visit rules apply, all services associated graduation or withdrawal eligibility extensions will be provided on a fee-for-service basis at published student fees. No charges to student accounts will be allowed.

On a case-by-case basis, the Director, Student Health Services may adjust or modify extended eligibility policies and procedures to meet special situations or circumstances.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 7.03

Newly entering students are eligible to receive immunizations and other preventive health services determined by Student Health Services as necessary to meet University of South Carolina Columbia campus pre-matriculation requirements. Care and treatment not associated with designated pre-matriculation services is not authorized.

1. Eligibility for pre-matriculation preventive services is effective ninety (90) days prior to the start of the newly entering student’s initial academic term.
2. Before services are provided, eligibility will be verified by Student Health Services staff using appropriate University databases.
3. All pre-matriculation services will be provided on a fee-for-service basis. No charges to student accounts are allowed.

The Director, Student Health Services, will designate those care and services necessary to meet pre-matriculation requirements.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 7.04

Disasters

The Student Health Services (SHS) has in place a Disaster Plan which is fully integrated with, and supports the University Disaster Plan. The authority to activate the University Disaster Plan rests with the President or his designated representative.

The Student Health Services Disaster Plan is designed to respond to on-campus occurrences that create or have the potential to create high levels of injury or illness. The role of Student Health Services is to provide triage, supportive care, and assist with evacuation. Normal operations are interrupted when the University Disaster Plan is activated.

The Student Health Services Director will coordinate with other University offices as deemed necessary to meet disaster readiness and response responsibilities.

Unusual Situations

Unusual situations are defined as a any campus situation which creates or has the potential to create abnormal health care requirements, but is not of immediate or significant magnitude to qualify for University response as a disaster.

The Student Health Services will provide or coordinate the provision of health service support for unusual situations. The actual response will vary based upon specific circumstances. The Student Health Services Director will ensure that appropriate University offices are properly notified of the circumstances and potential health consequences of unusual situations. Assistance and support from other offices and agencies will be requested as deemed necessary.

In the event of an unusual situation occurring outside of Student Health Services units, the Director, Student Health Services, should be notified as soon as possible, so that an appropriate health service response can be effected.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 7.05

Scope of Services

Thomson Student Health Services Center provides primary care ambulatory health services, which includes the treatment of minor injuries and acute illness, during scheduled operating hours. The Health Center does not offer emergency room services. No health care services, other than limited First Responder support during Fall and Spring semesters, are provided when the Student Health Services facilities Center is are closed.

The University looks to Columbia community providers for emergency medical services. Emergency medical services are available from local hospital emergency rooms. In addition, the The Richland County Emergency Medical Services can be called at any time to provide on-site treatment and transportation to treatment facilities in the event of serious injury or illness.

Payment of Emergency Health Care Charges 1. Students are responsible for payment of all charges for emergency transportation and medical treatment, to include transportation and treatment for injuries occurring on campus. Some reimbursement for out-of-pocket costs may be available through a supplemental accident and illness insurance plan that the Student Health Services Center purchases for all students who pay the University Health Fee. See the Student Health Services website (www.sa.sc.edu/tshc/thomson.htm) for more information on this emergency insurance coverage. 2. Students initially treated at the Student Health Services Center who must be transferred to a local emergency room or specialty provider are responsible for payment of any Student Health Services charges . associated with treatment at the Health Center as well as the charges for the transfer and treatment by community providers. Emergency Procedures
As a general rule, the following applies in cases of injury or sudden illness occurring on campus when: The Student Health Center Is Open:
a. Patient is Conscious and Ambulatory - Escort the patient to the Health Center for evaluation, treatment, and possible transfer to community health care facilities. Assistance from the Health Center Medic may be requested by calling the Campus Police Dispatcher at 7-9111.
b. Patient is Unconscious or Non-Ambulatory - Call 7-9111 and request assistance from Emergency Medical Services (EMS). The Student Health Center Is Closed:
Call 7-911l and request medical assistance. If the patient is located in a residence hall, notify the on-duty Resident Advisor (RA)
or Residence Hall Director (RHD) of the situation. Stay with the patient until assistance arrives. The above procedures should not be construed as prohibiting or otherwise limiting any student or other individual from directly contacting Emergency Medical Services (EMS) or other providers of choice when the student or other individual determines health care services are necessary or desirable.

As a general rule, the following applies in cases of injury or sudden illness occurring on campus when:

The Student Health Center Is Open:

Patient is Conscious and Ambulatory - Escort the patient to the Health Center for evaluation, treatment, and possible transfer to community health care facilities. If escorting the patient to the Health Center seems risky, call the Campus Police Dispatcher at 911 and request assistance.

Patient is Unconscious or Non-Ambulatory - Call 911 and request Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Stay with the patient until assistance arrives.

The Student Health Center Is Closed:

Call 911 and request medical assistance. If the patient is located in a residence hall, notify the on-duty Resident Advisor (RA) or Residence Hall Director (RHD) of the situation.

Stay with the patient until assistance arrives.

The above recommended procedures should not be construed as prohibiting or otherwise limiting any student or other individual from directly contacting Emergency Medical Services (EMS) or other providers of choice when the student or other individual determines health care services are necessary or desirable.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 7.06

Measles Immunity

All students born after 1956 and initially enrolling at USC Columbia, must provide proof of immunity for rubeola (red measles) and rubella (German measles). Proof of immunity requires documentation of one of the following:
a. Proper immunization records reflecting that two rubeola shots and one German measles shots were given after 1967 and after the first birthday.
b. Positive serum titer (blood antibody) for rubeola or rubella in lieu of required immunizations.
c. Physician diagnosed history of rubeola, plus meeting one of the above requirements for rubella. A history of rubella does not meet requirements. All students born after 1956 and initially enrolling at USC Columbia must provide proof of immunity for Rubeola (red measles) and Rubella (German measles). Proof of immunity requires documentation of one of the following:

Proper immunization records reflecting that two Rubeola shots and one German measles shots were given after 1967 and after the first birthday.

Positive serum titer (blood antibody) for Rubeola or rubella in lieu of required immunizations.

Physician diagnosed history of Rubeola, plus meeting one of the above requirements for Rubella. A history of Rubella does not meet requirements.

Registration for Classes
Students without immunization clearance from the provided by Thomson Student Health Center are not allowed to register for classes at USC Columbia.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 7.12

All international students, and English Programs for Internationals (EPI) students, and others designated by the Director, Student Health Services initially enrolling for or attending classes, training sessions, or special programs on the Columbia campus of the University of South Carolina must be screened for tuberculosis (TB).

TB screening programs will be operated by Student Health Services.  These programs will be based upon recommendations of the United States Centers for Disease Control and other appropriate guidance.

1. TB screening may be accomplished prior to arrival on campus.  Screening must be conducted and reported in accordance with procedures of published on the University Immunization Form.  The purified protein derivative (PPD) test will be use for initial screening.
2. International and EPI students, and designated others who report to campus without a TB clearance will be directed to report to Thomson Student Health Center (TSHC) for evaluation and possible PPD screening testing.
3. Students who report to campus with documentation of a positive TB PPD test result, or who test positive at TSHC, will may be referred to the Richland County Health Department for additional testing and possible therapeutic intervention.Students will not be allowed to register for classes until a TB clearance is issued by Student Health Services. Compliance with required post-screening testing, treatment regimens, and monitoring is mandatory.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 7.07

General
The Student Health Services has no authority to excuse a student from class or from meeting other academic requirements. Class excuses are not specifically granted for health care reasons.

The Thomson Student Health Center will provide students with validation slips indicating the date and time that the student presented for health care, and any limitations on class or other activity participation. The Counseling and Human Development Center will provide visit verification information upon request of the client, and completion of a medical information release form. Patients should request validation/verification documentation during the visit.

Upon the student’s request, Thomson Student Health Center will provide students with validation slips indicating the date and time that the student presented for health care, and any limitations on class or other activity participation.

The Counseling and Human Development Center will provide visit verification information upon request of the client, and completion of a medical information release form.

Patients should request validation/verification documentation during the visit.

The Student Health Services will, upon request of the patient, provide faculty members with details concerning health care visits, including diagnosis and treatments prescribed by Student Health Services providers. Patients will be required to authorize release of such information by signing a medical information release an authorization form.

The Student Health Services will not provide validation slips concerning student initiated self-care or treatment provided by others.

Responsibilities
Absences for health care reasons are subject to the University’s official attendance policy. Students are responsible for resolving with faculty members any unmet academic requirements or deficiencies which result from or are related to health. Students are responsible for scheduling health care visits during times that will have minimum detrimental impact on either class attendance or meeting other academic requirements. Students are responsible for providing visit verification information to faculty members. Visit verification documentation should be requested by the student during visits to the Health Center or the Counseling and Human Development Center.

Students are responsible for resolving with faculty members any unmet academic requirements or deficiencies which result from or are related to health.

Students are responsible for scheduling health care visits during times that will have minimum detrimental impact on either class attendance or meeting other academic requirements.

Students are responsible for providing visit verification information to faculty members. The student should request visit verification documentation during visits to the Health Center or the Counseling and Human Development Center.

Students are responsible for obtaining verifications and other associated documentation concerning health services not provided by Student Health Services.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 7.09

Situations which may warrant dismissal of a patient from care, or loss of eligibility for care, at Student Health Services facilities include:

Persistent refusal to follow, or a history of failure to comply with, prescribed treatment protocols and procedures.

Tampering, altering, or otherwise improper or illegal use of prescriptions or medications.

Lying, furnishing false information, or misrepresentation of the truth in, or with regard to, any transaction with the Student Health Services staff of the Health Center.

Failure to obey or comply with polices, rules, and regulations the General Student Conduct Regulations issued by the University of South Carolina as part of the Student Discipline System.

Situations, which may warrant either dismissal from care, or withdrawal of eligibility for care, or possible Student Judicial action will be referred by concerned staff members to the Director of the concerned Student Health Services unit, Student Health Services. If, after review by the Director, Student Health Services, dismissal/loss of eligibility is considered appropriate, a recommendation will be forwarded by the Student Health Services Director to the Director of Student Development and University Housing.

A decision to continue interim provision of health care services to patients being considered for dismissal from care, or termination of eligibility, or action by Student Judicial Programs will be made by the Director, Student Health Services, on a case-by-case basis. following discussion with the University Legal Office and other University officials.

Student Affairs STAF 7.10

The Counseling and Human Development Center (CHDC) is the primary counseling center on campus. Part of Student Health Services, it The CHDC is a Student Health Services unit, and is committed to the educational, personal, social, and emotional development of every Carolina student. The CHDC provides a wide variety of confidential services to students through a staff of counseling psychologists, a psychiatrist, a social workers, counselors, and supervised interns.

The major emphases of the CHDC are providing: individual and group personal-social counseling, marital and relationship counseling, crisis intervention, psychological assessment, biofeedback training, outreach programming, and consultation. Brief psychiatric intervention is also available when necessary. The CHDC strives to provide services that are preventative, remedial, and developmental. The CHDC operates under University and Student Health Services policies and procedures. Eligibility and charges are as follows:Limited CHDC services (up to 12 visits per year) are available at no cost to University students who have paid the University Health Fee. All visits beyond 12 will be on a fee-for-service basis.

Non-fee paying sStudents who do not pay the University Health Fee are eligible to use the Center on a fee-for-service basis.

The Counseling and Human Development Center is fully accredited by the International Association of Counseling Services, Inc., and adheres to the high standards associated with the profession. All client contacts are treated professionally and confidentially in accordance with federal and state law. The internship program is fully accredited by the American Psychological Association. The Counseling and Human Development Center is located on the main campus on the second floor, 900 Assembly Street, or Seventh Floor of the Brynes Building. Students may call 777-5223 for additional information and appointments.

Veterans Services Eligibility
Student Affairs Policy STAF 6.11

Institutions of higher learning having students enrolled who are pursuing an educational objective and receiving educational assistance from the Veterans Administration under the provisions of Chapters 30, 31, 32, 35, or 106, Title 38, United States Code, are required by Federal VA Regulations to set standards of progress and submit them to the License Division of the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education for approval. The standards of progress are:
• Grading system
• Probationary period
• Conditions for dismissal and re-entry
• Conduct of students and circumstances for dismissal
• Records kept by the school
• Attendance policy

Academic standards of progress and attendance are covered under school standards of progress as specified by the South Carolina State Approving Agency (SAA) and required by the US Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA). The USC Office of Veterans Services can be reached at 777-5156.

Procedure
Broad minimum standards and requirements have been established by the SAA for schools with courses approved under Title 38, United States Code, 1775 (accredited).

The University is responsible for developing its own specific standards of progress within the framework established by Federal VA Regulations. Frequently, the school’s own Academic Standards of Progress, Attendance, and Conduct already meet requirements set forth in Federal VA Regulations and separate standards need not be established.

The University must submit these Standards of Progress, via the University Provost, to the SAA for approval for eligible VA students’ training.

The University is expected to implement and enforce approved standards and criteria.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 6.12

Veterans Benefits
The following policies and procedures are of primary concern to veterans and other eligible persons who receive veterans benefits, collectively referred to in the text as “veterans.”

Enrollment Certification
Certification by the University VA Certifying Official in the Office of Veterans Services, Russell House, Room 316 (803/777-5156) is required for eligible students who wish to receive VA educational assistance checks. Students must initiate their own requests for enrollment certification, as the Certifying Official will process certifications and other forms to the VA only for those students who have made such a request and completed the necessary paperwork.

Normally, the VA requires that eligible students must have completed full University admissions requirements and matriculation into degree-seeking status before they may receive VA educational benefits. However, those students admitted as “Provisional”, “Military Special”, “Transient” or students enrolling for prerequisite courses required for admission into a professional degree program or school, may request VA certification if they provide appropriate documentation. VA students in these categories should contact the University Veterans Services Office for details. Only the federal VA has the final authority to award benefits to students in such admissions categories.

All VA students who have earned college credit at another school, or in another USC degree program, are required to provide the University Office of Veterans Services with a transfer credit evaluation from their academic department. The VA generally pays such students for one semester only pending receipt of the amount of “prior credit” applied to their current degree program.

Students can best ensure receipt of benefits by informing the University Veterans Services Office of their intent to register for classes and by supplying the number of credit hours for which they enroll each semester. Eligible VA students may request certification on an annual basis, and should recertify for each new academic year at least 45 days in advance. However, pursuant to federal law, VA students who are enrolled less than one-half time must request certification on a semester-by-semester basis.

Normally, VA payments may be made only for those courses that are required by the academic department for the student’s current degree program. All students receiving educational assistance checks from the VA are responsible for notifying the University Veterans Services Office of any changes in their degree program and/or course load during the semester, to include drop/add, withdrawal, audit status, invoking pass/fail option in a course, or enrollment in any Distance Education course, independent study, internship or practicum courses.

Procedure

Academic Suspension
Veterans academically suspended from another school cannot be certified for benefits at USC until they have received counseling from the DVA Regional Office. Veterans placed on academic suspension at USC, and later readmitted after suspension term(s), may be certified for benefits based on the evidence presented by the students and their academic departments that the cause of the prior unsatisfactory academic progress has been removed and a more favorable condition for satisfactory academic progress now exists. The DVA has the final decision regarding resumption of payments to the students.

Audited Courses
The DVA will not pay for courses that are audited. Payment of benefits will be based upon the number of credit hours for which a student is fully enrolled for credit toward his/her degree program.

Correspondence Courses
Veterans taking correspondence courses for credit toward graduation requirements in their degree program may be certified for payment with documentation from their academic advisor that the courses are requirements for graduation. Payment will be reimbursement of tuition only for a semester in which students enroll only in courses via correspondence. However, students taking classroom courses in conjunction with correspondence courses might receive monthly DVA payments, depending on their training time. Specific information may be obtained from the University Veterans Services Office.

Dropping a Course
Veterans who drop a course, resulting in a reduction in DVA training time (i.e. full-time to 3/4 time, etc.) should promptly report the reduction to the University Veterans Services Office. A drop after 30 days from the beginning of the semester will create an overpayment of benefits computed from the first day of the semester if the drop results in a grade of “W.” The DVA will take into consideration any mitigating reasons causing the student to drop the course. Veteran students should report any mitigating circumstances to the University Veterans Services Office or to the DVA Regional Office.

ETV Courses
Policy for open-circuit ETV courses is the same as for correspondence courses (see above). Closed circuit ETV courses are considered the same as classroom courses for DVA payment.

Excessive Credit Hours
Veterans must enroll only in courses specified for their degree program, and applied electives, up to the number of elective credits required in their degree program.

Independent Study
Policy for Independent Study course is the same as for correspondence and open-circuit ETV courses (see above).

Internship Courses
Prior to enrolling in any internship course, veterans should check with the University Veterans Services Office and make certain the internship course has been approved for DVA payments. Most internships offered at the University are approved for DVA payment; however, some have been disapproved, and some require submission for individual approval each time a veteran enrolls.

Non-attendance
DVA educational benefits are paid to students maintaining satisfactory attendance by school standards. A professor’s or instructor’s report of a DVA student’s excessive absences in a class, or cessation of attendance without a formal withdrawal or drop transaction, will probably result in an overpayment of benefits to the student.

Non-Degree Students
Special non-degree students may be eligible for DVA payments for the equivalent of two full USC semesters, provided these students are in the process of making full application to a degree program and are enrolled in courses required for graduation in that degree program.

Transient students, or those taking prerequisites for admission to a professional school or graduate program may not be limited to a two semester equivalent number of courses, but may be paid only for courses specified by their parent institution or professional school or graduate program.

Proper documentation will be required for all students in these categories before the USC Office of Veterans Services will certify for DVA payment (contact the Office of Veterans Services at 777-5156 for details). The US Department of Veterans Affairs will make the final decision regarding payment.

Overpayment
Any overpayment of benefits must be returned or reimbursed to the DVA. The student is responsible for maintaining up-to-date paperwork in the Veterans Services Office so that overpayments do not occur.

Pass/Fail
Students taking the pass/fail option in a course must provide proof from their academic department that the pass/fail course(s) are required for them to meet graduation requirements in their degree program. However, students who fail a pass/fail course after submitting documentation and receiving payment for the course may be charged with an overpayment of DVA benefits for that course.

Practicum Courses
Policy for practicum courses is the same as for Internship Courses (see above).

Repeating Courses
Veterans may repeat a course required for graduation in their degree program if they fail the course and a passing grade is required for them to graduate.

Program Change
Veterans who have received benefits in one program and enroll in a new degree program must provide proof of acceptance into the new program and their transfer credit evaluation form from their academic department before they visit the University Veterans Services Office to complete the necessary forms to change their degree program with the DVA. Veterans are entitled to one program change by law; a second change requires DVA counseling and approval. Dependents are required to have DVA counseling and approval for each program change.

Teacher Certification
Veterans may request DVA payment for courses required for State Department of Education certification in teaching, administration, and guidance. Students must provide a copy of their certification worksheet from the State Department of Education. Payment from the DVA will be limited to specific courses required for the student to be certified in their field.

Transfer Credit
Transfer credit hours accepted by USC from all prior college attendance should be turned in to the University Veterans Services Office within the student’s first semester at USC. The DVA could suspend payment of benefits pending receipt of the amount of prior credit accepted by USC from the student’s previous attendance.

Withdrawal From School
The policy is basically the same as for dropping a course (see above).

Student Responsibility
Veterans are responsible for making certain they are certified to the DVA each semester they enroll. The University Veterans Services Office does not automatically certify students for benefit payments. Students should complete a Certification Request Form at the University Veterans Services Office for each semester they enroll at the University.

A statement of responsibility to notify the University Veterans Services Office of any change in enrollment appears on the Request for Certification Form (USC-VSR-I) which veterans complete with each new enrollment certification period. This statement reads: “The information I have provided on this form is true. I acknowledge that it is my responsibility to notify the USC Veterans Services Office of any changes in my degree program and projected credit hours schedule, to include drops or withdrawal.” A student’s notification to the campus Veterans Services Office of any reduction in credit hour load via drop, withdrawal, audit, or pass/fail option invoked should be in the form of a letter or an office visit.

(NOTE: Any student who reduces credit hour load by drop, withdrawal, audit, or pass/fail option is required to first follow the University’s formal procedure for taking such action prior to notifying the school DVA office.)

For a complete review of all approved School Standards of Progress or any other veteran-related policies, procedures, and regulations, please contact University Veterans Services Office, or consult the University Administrative Policies and Procedures Manual.