Health & Immunization Information

Immunization recommendations for upcoming intercultural programs are posted on each program description. Intercultural travelers should be aware that some immunizations cannot be given together and may require four weeks to 6 months between injections, so the process should begin with sufficient time to complete all doses before departure. Students and leaders may arrange for immunizations through EMU Health Services or the local health department travel immunization clinic.

Each student must complete the Health History & Emergency Information form. The form includes emergency contacts, health insurance verification & policy number, family doctor, health history including mental health, and a medical permission statement. Students will receive a memo with immunization requirements for their specific program destinations. A copy of these records will accompany the intercultural faculty leaders and will be filed at EMU.

All students participating in an intercultural programs outside the U.S. must be covered by an insurance policy with international health coverage. The EMU Student Health Plan or documented comparable coverage is required for all resident students. The student health plan is purchased through the EMU Business Office. All students registering for an off-campus EMU Intercultural program will be enrolled in Global Emergency Services coverage provided by this company.  Other student travel and health insurance options are linked below.

EMU program leaders have access to a twenty-four hour, seven days a week, toll-free emergency assistance service, that provides help in locating the nearest, most appropriate medical care, in making emergency contacts, replacing stolen documents, emergency transfer of funds and many other services in the event of serious travel difficulties. EMU intercultural faculty have access to a list of services and contact phone numbers through the Intercultural Programs Office. This coverage is not a substitute for an individual health plan.

For students traveling within the US and territories or abroad

EMU Intercultural Programs requires all students participating in off-campus intercultural programs to be covered through EMU Traveler health insurance, with coverage for emergency medical care/ accident and sickness medical expense. This cost will be included in the program fees and paid for by EMU Intercultural. Travel insurance will include:
  • Evacuation and repatriation services - Emergency Medical/natural catastrophe/political unrest
  • Trip Interruption or trip cancellation (this usually covers only airfare, not lodging or deposits for tours, etc.)
  • Trip Delay / Per day
    Baggage Delay - Min. 12 hours
  • Property loss - lost or stolen personal property

For individuals securing travel or traveler medical coverage independently, note what losses or claims are covered. Policy costs are based on the dates of travel and the cost of the trip. We recommend that students enter the travel fee or airfare as the trip cost. Some individuals have access to an inexpensive rider through a homeowners/auto policy that allows you to deal with a familiar insurance office. 

Some reputable medical/travel insurance options available are:

AXA https://www.axatravelinsurance.com/get-a-quote-now
IMG www.imglobal.com
Safe Trip https://www.uhcsafetrip.com/ 
GeoBlue Single Trip https://go.geobluetravelinsurance.com/

How can I verify international health insurance coverage?

To document current coverage, students provide a copy of the receipt of purchase, insurance card, and/or statement of coverage from the insurance company.