u of utah travel clinic

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U travel clinic open

The Travel Clinic at University of Utah Health is open, with full operations. That means you can receive all your vaccines for travel, study abroad, and humanitarian missions.

For your travel list, remember:

• The clinic back to full operations
• The clinic will provide important travel information to keep you safe and healthy
• Carries a wide range of vaccines, including Yellow Fever
• Prices are competitive, even with state-funded programs
• Insurance can be billed for most services

If your travel does not go as planned, when you return head to the post travel clinic for travel related illnesses.

To learn more, and to make an appointment, click here .

MORE ANNOUNCEMENTS

Goldwater scholars 2024.

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These scholarships have extensive application processes, including institutional endorsements and internal deadlines that fall in August 2024.

HMHI lands major funding to help transform addiction treatment

Worldwide, someone dies from drug or alcohol addiction every four minutes.

Two U professors selected as 2024 AAAS Fellows

Amy Barrios and H. Joseph Yost of U of U Health honored ro their research and commitment to mentoring.

Red Butte Garden Arbor Day celebration

A day of events for all dendrophiles!

Stress Busters Week spring 2024

From art projects to food to study resources, there is something for everyone!

2024 Bench 2 Bedside winners

This year’s student winners developed a novel syringe accessory to prevent adhesions that may occur in mothers during a caesarian-section surgery.

New ‘Innovate U’ website showcases the U’s cutting-edge research and discoveries

Now there’s a streamlined website and an easy way to find out what innovations the University of Utah and its students, faculty, staff and community are working on.

Academic Senate meeting on April 29

Join the Academic Senate meeting on April 29 from 3-5:30 p.m.

Learning Abroad

Global engagement, main navigation.

• Travel Health and Insurance

Quick Links:

Personal health information & disclosure, international medical and security evacuation insurance, using the cisi policy, trip insurance vs. medical insurance, travel immunizations, mental and emotional health, over the counter & prescription medications, taking care of yourself onsite, food and water quality abroad, dating & sexual activity.

Before departure, you must complete the Travel Health Questionnaire and the Office for Global Engagement Health Clearance Form . These are integrated into the post-decision steps of your U of U application.  To complete this requirement, take the following steps:

These steps must be completed by the following deadlines:

• Academic Year/Fall : June 15th
• Fall Break: August 1st
• Calendar Year/Spring/Spring Break/Winter Break : December 15th
• Summer: April 15th

Health information will NOT be considered as part of the admissions decision for your Program.   If you are accepted to the Program, this information is made available in a confidential manner to the individuals and organizations facilitating the Program.   During an emergency, this is the University’s primary source of information to help you with.

If you need to request accommodations related to a disability, please see the  Diversity  section of the Learning Abroad Handbook. Top

You are required to have the University’s international insurance.  The insurance policy is provided through Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) . Among other benefits, the policy includes coverage for medical evacuation, repatriation of remains, and evacuation support in the event of a natural disaster or political upheaval. Detailed information about the policy is available in CISI’s on-line portal or in the policy brochure .  Please note the following:

• You will automatically be registered for this coverage before departure.
• An email with instructions and your insurance card will be sent to your Umail.
• The cost of this policy is included in the Billable cost of your Program. The cost will automatically be charged to your student account.
• The policy covers the official Program dates. You can extend the policy to cover independent travel outside of your Program dates.  It is your responsibility to secure and pay for policy extensions.
• Coverage may be available for dependents. Contact the Office for Global Engagement for more information. 

For details on using insurance policy, see Using the CISI Policy .

CISI 2024 Calendar Year Rates*

*CISI Rates are an estimate and are subject to change each year on January 1 st .

• Student rates are calculated  weekly  for the travel up to 3 weeks in length
• Student rates are calculated  monthly  for travel longer than 21 days

Instructions for using the CISI policy and important contact information are found in this handout .  CISI may be able to pay for medical expenses up front.  If you pay for service out-of-pocket, you will need to submit a claim to CISI.  CISI will review the claim and determine if it is reimbursable.  Itemized receipts are required to obtain a reimbursement.  CISI works with AXA Assistance to provide 24/7 referrals and support to travelers.

For Non-Emergency Treatment-

For non-emergency treatment, following the steps below:

• Call AXA Assistance to open a case. Using the information on your insurance card, open a case with AXA Assistance using the 24/7 contact information below.  They will need your policy number to open the case.  A copy of the policy and your card can be found in the myCISI Participant Portal .
• Follow the instructions and receive care. AXA Assistance will identify the best care facility and provide you with instruction.   
• Submit a claim for reimbursement (if applicable). Take your insurance information and ID card with you to the healthcare facility.  If CISI does not have a direct-bill relationship with the facility, you may be required to provide payment for services.  Be sure to keep receipts and submit a claim for reimbursement after your appointment. 

During an Emergency

For all   emergency situations, use the steps below:

• Seek help immediately. In an emergency, seek help before opening a case.
• Call AXA Assistance to open a case as soon as possible. Using the information on your insurance card, open a case with AXA Assistance using the 24/7 contact information below.  They will need your policy number to open the case.  A copy of the policy and your card can be found in the myCISI Participant Portal .  You can also contact the University to open the case on your behalf.
• Follow the instructions provide by AXA Assistance. AXA Assistance will work with the treatment facility to manage your case.

Trip insurance is different than medical insurance.

• Medical insurance covers medical emergencies abroad.
• Trip insurance can reimburse you for unforeseen travel changes such as flight delays, theft, trip cancellation, etc.

The University of Utah does NOT provide trip insurance. You can purchase a trip policy through an insurance agent or a travel agent. Verify whether or not "acts of God" are covered. This may impact the benefits for weather-related issues or if the Program is canceled due to a natural disaster.

You may need immunizations for your Program.  It is your responsibility to identify and obtain necessary immunizations before departure. Keep the following in mind:

• The Center for Disease Control (CDC) provides for country-specific health and immunization information.
• Some immigration officers require proof that you received your travel immunizations. This is common with the yellow fever vaccination.
• Some immunizations require 3 - 6 months to complete. Contact your doctor immediately to begin the process.
• Your family physician may not be able to give you travel immunizations. Options for obtaining travel immunizations are found below.  You will need an appointment in advance.  When making the appointment, ask about any required paperwork that you will need.

As a participant in a Learning Abroad program, you have access to several different resources to help support you while abroad. Please refer to the following: 

• The University Counseling Center can provide two short emergency sessions or one long emergency session for all U of U affiliated students regardless of physical location. If you are located outside the U.S., due to licensing constraints, the Center is not able to continue therapy beyond those initial emergency services. To access these services, you will need to dial in to the Counseling Center numbers : 801-581-6826 during business hours in the U.S. and 24/7 crisis support through  SafeUT  OR by calling 801-587-3000.
• The Counseling Center launched the Telus Health Student Support App to offer mental health resources and support 24/7, regardless of participant location. This is a fantastic service and we encourage you to download and engage with the app prior to traveling or before you are in crisis. This service also provides many additional resources and therapy/counseling in other languages.
• CISI insurance  and AXA Assistance also offer phone and Zoom therapy and counseling services and can, at times, locate an in-country provider for students abroad, depending on location. You can access this service through Team Assist (24/7/365) – AXA Assistance: Phone: (855) 327-1411 | (312) 935-1703 Email: [email protected] , or through the MyCISI app. Domestic health insurance carriers can also provide resources and support.
• Some of our in-country partners offer support services and can help connect you. Often times, mental health resources will be reviewed by our affiliates, partner institutions, partner organizations during pre-departure or in-country orienations. 
• Depending on your location, you may also be able to access services via emergency response providers by calling/activating police, fire, medical, and emergency response services.

Remember that healthy travels include mental and emotional well-being. Experiencing another culture is exciting, but is also disorienting and often results in culture shock. Be aware of the following:

• Culture shock can increase the symptoms of mental and emotional health conditions or initiate a relapse. You should expect to have some culture shock and homesickness during your Program.
• Struggling with culture shock is normal, but you do not have to face this alone. If you feel overwhelmed, reach out to Program staff for help.
• If you have a history of mental or emotional health conditions, disclose this information in your U of U Application . This information will help us support you onsite.
• The Peace Corps has fantastic resources to help you prepare for, understand, and manage culture shock.
• There are also on campus resources to assist you with mental and emotional health:
• University Counseling Center
• Center for Student Wellness
• Mindfulness Clinic
• Center for Disability and Access
• Student Health Center

The availability of over-the-counter and prescription medications varies.  It is your responsibility to ensure that you have access to medications and supplies abroad. For over-the-counter medications, you should pack a “homemade first aid kit” so that you have basic supplies.  The CDC has an excellent first aid packing list .  For prescription medications, follow the guidelines below.

• Pack enough medication to last your entire Program.
• Keep the medication in the original, labeled containers with your name, doctor’s name, and name of the medication.
• Ask your healthcare provider about refilling prescriptions abroad.
• Know the generic names of your prescriptions.  In the event of an emergency, this will help you communicate with medical personnel.
• Pack all prescription medication in your CARRY-ON LUGGAGE.
• If you use injections, take an adequate supply of well-labeled syringes.  You may need an official letter from your doctor to take injections on a plane.
• Take an extra pair of glasses and a copy of your prescription. Take enough contact lens solution for the duration of your Program.

Travel, time changes, new climates, and new foods can weaken your immune system. Get plenty of rest and eat properly. Dehydration is common for travelers.  Drink lots of water. If you feel unwell, contact your Faculty Director, Program Staff, or CISI . They can help you obtain medical care abroad.

Food and water quality outside of the United States can vary greatly. These variations can cause medical problems for you during your travels. Research the water quality of your destination before departure. Your Faculty Director or the staff at one of the local travel clinics can provide advice if you are unsure. Many guide books also provide insights into water quality. If the water quality is questionable, drink bottled water and ask for drinks without ice cubes. You might consider using bottled water to brush your teeth as well.

Make sure that all food is well cooked. Fruits and vegetables should be thoroughly washed and peeled. Be especially careful when eating food prepared by street vendors or food carts. The general rule of thumb from travel experts is: If you can’t cook it or you can’t peel it, don’t eat it!

There are cultural differences associated with dating and sexual activity.  Partners abroad may have different expectations of you. Gestures, clothing, eye contact, and body language can be interpreted differently. Depending on the host culture, your behavior may be perceived as provocative or overly aggressive. Additionally, casual topics of conversation in one culture may be considered sexual encouragement in others. Be sure to socialize in groups and remove yourself from any situation that makes you uncomfortable.

The prevalence of AIDs, HIV, and other STIs may be higher abroad, and the understanding of how diseases are spread or prevented may be limited. Before engaging in sexual activity, consider potential health risks and use appropriate precautions. Forms of protection may be difficult to find in the host country. Be sure to take supplies with you. Contact your health care provider for specific recommendations.

Dating Apps

Using dating apps is a common, contemporary practice that can bring people together socially. But like many activities, it can also introduce risks, especially when traveling or studying abroad. The tips below are common-sense practices that can help you avoid risks associated with dating apps. Remember, it is okay to be wary and situationally aware without being suspicious!

When planning to meet someone you’ve met on a dating app, follow these guidelines:

• Share your location with friends and let them know whom you intend to meet. Send them a screenshot of your date’s online profile, their name, and any other identifying information. 
• Make sure friends know where you are going and when you will be back. Update your friends if your plans change. 
• Choose a location that is familiar, well-lit, and well-traveled. Avoid secluded locations. Consider choosing a popular restaurant or café in an area frequented by other travelers. 
• Do not take any high-value items with you other than your phone – leave extra cash, credit/debit cards, and expensive jewelry locked away for this one! 
• Ensure your cell phone is charged, has a locator turned on, and that a friend who knows where you intend to be is prepared to see texts or answer calls from you without delay if there is a need to contact help. 
• Never allow someone you do not know to pick you up at your lodging – always arrange to meet them at a well-traveled, visible, public location where you cannot be isolated.
• If they are available and safe to use in your location, have a ride-share app or the number of a trusted taxi service ready to use if you want to end the date and leave quickly. 
• Do not give your telephone number to your date until you have met them. NEVER let them know the exact location where you are staying, working, and/or studying until you’ve gotten to know them after several meetings. 
• Do not become intoxicated and watch your food and drink carefully. If you suspect it may have been tampered with, leave immediately and call for help, even from those near you. 
• Make sure you have local emergency numbers and numbers for friends memorized or available somewhere other than your phone in case you lose your phone and need help – police response may not always be timely! 

Source: U-W Madison Guide

Handbook Contents

• Welcome/Content
• Orientation and Cultural Preparation
• Academic Policies and Procedures
• Student Conduct
• Travel Logistics
• Safety for Travelers
• Money Matters
• Diversity & Identity Abroad
• Coming Home
• Withdrawal & Dismissal Penalties and Procedures
• Information for Non-U of U Students

• Global Programs
• Student Resources
• Faculty Resources
• Global U Branding
• Global U Inventory
• Scholarships and Fellowships
• Partnerships
• Internships
• Global Travel Safety
• Office For Global Engagement
• Learning Abroad
• International Student & Scholar Services
• Asia Campus Board of Directors
• Eccles Global
• English Language Institute
• Global Health
• Global Change & Sustainability Center
• Hinckley Institute
• International & Area Studies
• International Alumni
• Sustainability Inventory
• West Africa Program

Global U Office for Global Engagement

Global travel safety: faqs, emergency support.

Individuals requiring assistance abroad should contact the area’s emergency services and then the University’s international assistance provider (CISI/Team-Assist) at + 1 312 935 1703.

More information on Emergency Support

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

University of utah international travel insurance.

The University of Utah Permanent Travel Safety and Insurance Rule  (2018) outlines the travel registration and insurance enrollment requirements for all University-affiliated  travel to international locations.  All University members (faculty, staff and students) are required to enroll in University of Utah Group International Health Insurance Coverage for their dates of international travel.

University of Utah international insurance coverage is provided by Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) and contains (4) principal elements:

• CISI  Health Insurance  for travelers (Accident and Sickness)
• Team Assist (AXA)  24/7 Traveler Assistance  (Medical, Travel and Technical)
• Emergency Medical and Security  Evacuation
• International Travel Health and Safety  Intelligence

Review the information below for detailed information about each component

CISI Health Insurance for Travelers (Accident and Sickness)

University of Utah travelers can review the following documents for common questions regarding insurance policy coverage, benefits, and claims.

• 2024 Policy Brochure
• 2024 Medical, Repatriation and Security Coverage
• 2024 CISI Claim Form
• 2024 CISI Dependent Enrollment Form

Team Assist (AXA) 24/7 Traveler Assistance (Medical, Travel and Legal)

University of Utah travelers have 24/7 access to medical, security and travel assistance provided though Team Assist (AXA) .  Team Assist representatives can be reached by phone or email at any time in order to provide emergency assistance or support.

International Insurance Charges/Fees

• Rates are calculated weekly for the travel up to 3 weeks in length
• Rates are calculated monthly for travel longer than 21 days

*Monthly rate applies for any travel 22 days or longer

Emergency Medical and Security Evacuations

Please see Emergencies Abroad .

CISI Online Portal

University of Utah traveler enrollment in CISI insurance coverage provides access to an online portal (“ myCISI ”) through which policy holders are able to quickly access insurance policy tools and support including Policy ID Cards, Consulate Letters, Extended Coverage and Travel Intelligence. All student travelers will receive "myCISI" Portal login information via email after student travel registration and enrollment steps have been completed.

Dependent Enrollment

UofU travelers have the ability to enroll dependents (spouses and children) in University insurance coverage after travel registration and enrollment steps have been completed. Dependent enrollment is obtained by completing and submitting a Dependent Enrollment Form . Charges vary depending on the relationship to the primary University traveler.

Leisure Travel

University travelers interested in leisure travel are not eligible for insurance through the University.  Travelers seeking international insurance and assistance coverage for personal/leisure travel are encouraged to research providers in the marketplace such as Patriot Travel Medical Insurance  or  HTH Worldwide Insurance , or use an insurance marketplace search platform such as  SquareMouth .

Extensions of Coverage

Travelers who are enrolled in University of Utah Group international insurance coverage for dates of University travel are eligible to extend their international insurance coverage up to 1-month before , or  1-month after , the dates of their recognized University travel. Travelers can extend their coverage on their My CISI portal ( www.mycisi.com/ ) or by emailing [email protected]).

International Insurance Exemptions

The University of Utah does not currently recognize any exemptions from this policy for UofU faculty, staff or students traveling to international locations.  All University of Utah travelers are required to register their international travel , and enroll in University of Utah International Insurance coverage regardless of any other insurance coverage they may have – including insurance possibly required by providers, foreign institutions or governments (i.e. Germany, Australia, etc.)

Enrollment in the University’s Health and Emergency Evacuation Insurance usually happens as part of the UTravel & Reimbursement Services SAP Concur process.

All students participating in recognized Learning Abroad and Eccles Global programs are automatically registered with the University’s International Travel Registry and enrolled in the Health and Emergency Evacuation Insurance. All participants in these programs will receive confirmation of travel registration and insurance enrollment in the weeks prior to their program start date, and no action is necessary on their part.

If you are a student traveler not on a sponsored or official University program, please see the question below about registering in the Student Travel Registry .

If the University employee is not using Travel & Reimbursement / SAP Concur, or didn't receive the automatic email to enroll, they can self-enroll in the Insurance via this link (or this link for those who are traveling to Spain and require a visa).

All University students are strongly encouraged to maintain their U.S. (domestic) health insurance coverage while abroad in case medical treatment for injuries or illness inside the U.S. is necessary (or desired) during their international travel.

According to University Rule R3-030D , University-related International Travel means travel to any country outside the U.S. (including Mexico and Canada) or territory outside the continental U.S., Alaska and Hawaii, including to non-contiguous U.S. locations of American Samoa, Guam, Midway Islands, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Wake Island. If you are traveling to or through these destination(s), then yes, you do need to enroll in the insurance.

Yes, according to University Rule R3-030D , regardless of other insurance enrollments or policies held, you must enroll in the University Health and Emergency Evacuation Insurance.

Yes, according to University Rule R3-030D , regardless of whether your travel is funded or sponsored by an outside organization, or funded or sponsored by the University, you must enroll in the University Health and Emergency Evacuation Insurance.

Yes, University members who register University-related International Travel as described in this rule may seek reimbursement from the University for appropriate travel expenses pursuant to Rule 3-030 .

Charges incurred by members on University-related International Travel for registration and insurance are generally eligible for reimbursement by the University if university funds are being used to support the trip.

Personal travel, dependent travel, and dependent insurance costs are not eligible for reimbursement by the University.

Alternative insurance enrollment and coverages (outside of the University Health and Emergency Evacuation Insurance plan) are not reimbursable.

University-related International Travel that is not registered pursuant to this Rule will be rejected for University reimbursement absent an exception for exigent travel needs or to educate University members to comply with University Rule being given by the cognizant vice president.

Travelers who require official University of Utah proof-of-insurance documentation for your time abroad for visa applications or letters are able to access that documentation on the myCISI Portal .

If you are unable to obtain your visa letter through the CISI Online Portal, please contact the Office of Global Risk for direct assistance.

When your insurance enrollment information is emailed to you, you will also receive an invoice/bill. To pay the invoice, you can call CISI at 203 399 5088 and pay through the phone or by emailing CISI .

You should pay by check or T(ravel) Card, and, in most cases, not by P(urchase) Card.

If you aren’t participating on a University sponsored or affiliated study abroad program, but you are:

• conducting independent research abroad
• attending and/or presenting at international conference(s);
• traveling abroad as a member of an ASUU student group or organization
• participating in internship or service learning opportunities organized or sponsored by a University group or representative

You shall complete the Student Travel Registry . As part of this process, you will receive an email with instructions to enroll in the University insurance. You can also enroll here .

Real-time Medical and Security travel information is available to all University international travelers. On your myCISI Portal you can click the “Security and Assistance Tools”, “Travel Destination Info”, and “Resources & Links” hyperlinks on the left-hand side of the webpage to access these resources.

The University partners with CISI, AXA, and Crisis24 to provide country-, region-, and area-specific travel destination intelligence. You should also review the Department of State , CDC , and any other relevant intelligence resources.

Please contact the Global Risk Manager with questions.

EMERGENCIES, HEALTH & SAFETY

Depending on the type of emergency, University international travelers shall contact the following emergency contacts as appropriate:

• Local Emergency Numbers (for police, fire, ambulance, etc.) – 911 Abroad Numbers
• CISI / AXA Team Assist – 312 935 1703 (outside U.S.); 855 327 1411 (toll-free inside U.S.); email: [email protected] ; or contact through the MyCISI Portal / App.
• On-site (in-country) faculty, staff or partner organization contacts
• Global Travel & Safety – 24/7 University of Utah Emergency Line: +1 801 585 2677

CISI / AXA Team Assist is available to provide direct assistance with overseas medical, security, or legal emergencies. You can also contact the U’s Global Risk Manager at [email protected].

For all emergencies, seek help without delay at the nearest medical facility and then, after admittance, open up a case with CISI / AXA Team Assist at any time by contacting +1 312 935 1703 .

For reimbursement purposes, please keep all documentation, receipts, invoices, bills, etc. for a reimbursement request with CISI.

If a University member’s medical condition requires an evacuation from their current international location in order to obtain further medical treatment, CISI / AXA Team Assist is available to open a medical file and assist with this process*.  Dependent on CISI's medical review, travelers may be evacuated to the closest location abroad where the necessary medical care can be provided, or back to the U.S.  Contact CISI Team Assist at +1 312 935 1703 in order to obtain more information and direction regarding this process.

If a University member believes that specific security concerns in their area of travel warrant an evacuation, CISI Team Assist is available to open a security file and assist with this process*.  Contact CISI Team Assist at +1 312 935 1703 for more information.

*In order for any medical or security-related evacuation costs to be covered by our insurance policy, all approvals and arrangements must be made by CISI / AXA Team Assist in conjunction with the attending physician (for a medical evacuation), or with Crisis24 (for a security evacuation). University members are encouraged to contact CISI / AXA Team Assist as soon as possible to open a medical or security file if assistance is needed.

You can contact UPublic Safety / University Police’s 24/7 Communications Center at 801 585 2677 or the Office of Global Engagement’s Global Risk Manager at 801 581 4042 or by email for questions or concerns related to international travel, international insurance, risk management, health, safety, and security issues.

The Office of Global Engagement works alongside UTravel Services, Learning Abroad, UPublic Safety, and other campus units to monitor world events and their potential impact on University travelers abroad. When international incidents or emergencies happen, the Office of Global Engagement, and other on- and off-campus partners, reach out to contact travelers, confirm they are safe, and provide information about support and assistance available to them.

The University has a Global Incident Management Team to respond to international incidents and emergencies and a Global Travel Oversight Committee that is tasked to review international travel and risk management guidelines and policies and review travel to High-Risk Destinations.

The University works to brief University international travelers on health and safety information, risk mitigation, prevention, and response. If you would like a Pre-Departure Health and Safety Orientation or Training, please contact the Global Risk Manager .

If you have questions about our risk management, health, safety, and security practices, please reach out to the Global Risk Manager .

HEALTH & SAFETY RESOURCES FOR TRAVELERS

University of Utah Health’s Travel Clinic is the most comprehensive travel medicine and immunization clinic in the state of Utah. For individuals, small groups, and business travelers, U of U Travel Clinic provides the following services:

• Appropriate immunizations and travel medications will be recommended based on an individual’s specific destination(s), duration of travel, activities and medical conditions
• Pre- and Post-Travel Consultations
• Special Services/Consultations for Groups and Business Travelers

For additional travel risk management resources, please see our Health and Safety Resources for Travelers page .

University Rule R3-030D defines High-Risk Destination(s) as a country or area the Office of Global Engagement determines is at a high, severe, or extreme risk rating based on risk assessment analysis organizations and providers such as DOS Travel Advisories , CDC Travel Health Notices , Riskline , and Crisis24 .

University travelers should be aware that travel to or through High-Risk Destination(s) carries additional health, safety, and security risks and should work to inform themselves of those risks, how to prevent accidents and mitigate situational severity, and what assistance resources and support is available in the destination(s).

The University recommends that all travelers who are U.S. citizens register their University-related International Travel with the DOS Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (“STEP”) , a free service that alerts travelers about important safety concerns in destination(s) and enables the DOS to better assist U.S. citizens traveling abroad in the event of an emergency. The University recommends that non-U.S. citizens contact their home country governments to inquire about additional available registration and support.

Because the University’s Health and Emergency Evacuation Insurance only provides health, emergency evacuation coverage, and assistance services for University-related International Travel that is properly registered with the University, the University may not be able to help travelers who fail to register their travel appropriately. Travelers who do not register their travel plans with the University consequently risk personal liability exposure and limited access to assistance.

The University strongly encourages family members or friends traveling with University-related International Travel participants to enroll as dependents in employee or student coverage if offered by the University or to investigate and enroll in publicly available international insurance coverage.

Have Questions or Need Help?

CONTACT GLOBAL RISK

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Stay safe and healthy when you travel.

Which immunizations do i need to go to another country, where can i find a travel clinic.

Travel clinics are your go-to resource for everything travel related. Utah’s travel clinics can help with everything from immunizations to a list of what to pack for your trip.

How do I stay safe when I travel?

Stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Use the same common sense when you travel that you would at home.

What if I get sick after I travel?

You may get sick during travel but not have symptoms until you get home. Talk to a doctor or healthcare provider if you feel sick after you travel—especially if you have a fever.

Can I drink the water in another country?

Food and water that isn’t clean can cause diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.

How do I get medical care when I travel?

It’s important to know how you will get medical care if you get sick or have an emergency when you travel.

Is it safe to touch animals in another country?

No. Most animals avoid people. However, animals may attack if they are hurt, sick, feel threatened, or to protect their territory or babies. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

How do I protect myself from diseases I can’t get immunized for?

Take steps during travel to stay safe and healthy and avoid experiences that might ruin your trip.

Is it safe to go to another country for a medical procedure?

Millions of US residents travel to another country for medical care each year. But this can be risky. Make sure you understand the risks before you schedule a medical procedure outside the U.S.

Should I buy travel or medical evacuation insurance?

You may want to get travel insurance to cover yourself in case delays, accidents, or illness occur on your trip.

Your health insurance may not cover medical care in another country. Some types of travel insurance help you cover costs if your travel is canceled or disrupted.

How long does it take to get a passport?

It usually takes between 10 and 13 weeks to get a passport. You can pay extra to get it in 7 to 9 weeks.

Follow us on social media for travel tips and updates.

Each country has different immunization requirements to enter the country. Make sure you’re up-to-date on the immunizations you need for your trip.

Why should I get immunized before I leave the U.S.?

It takes about 10 days for most immunizations to start to work and build immunity to disease. And you need more than a shot to protect you from many diseases. This means it may take 6 months or more to protect you from some diseases. Find out which vaccines you’ll need as soon as you know your travel plans. Immunity to disease may be the most important thing you bring with you!

Which immunizations do I need?

• Missionaries
• School requirements
• Yellow fever

Do I need a booster for immunizations I’ve already had?

You need a booster dose later in life for most of the immunizations you got as a child to stay protected.

Medical waivers

There are certain medical conditions which may prevent a person from receiving a yellow fever vaccination. 

Travel Vaccines

Vaccine needs vary considerably from country to country, but the best place to start is with the recommended vaccine schedules for children and adults. In Utah, some vaccinations are required for school entry. However, most of the vaccines that are routinely administered in childhood require periodic booster doses throughout life to maintain an effective level of immunity. Adults often neglect to keep up the recommended schedule of booster vaccinations, particularly if the risk of infection is low. Additionally, some adults have never been vaccinated at all. It is important to realize that diseases such as diphtheria and poliomyelitis, which no longer occur in most industrialized countries, many be present in those visited by travelers. Pretravel precautions should include booster doses of routine vaccines if the regular schedule has not been followed, or a full course of primary immunization for people who have never been vaccinated.

Additional vaccines are advised on the basis of a travel risk assessment for the individual traveler. In deciding which vaccines are appropriate, the following factors should be considered for each vaccine:

• risk of exposure to the disease
• age, health status, vaccination history
• special risk factors
• reactions to previous vaccine doses, allergies
• risk of infecting others

For more information, visit the following links:

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Yellow Fever Vaccination

Travel Vaccines Resources

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Mandatory vaccination, as authorized by the International Health Regulations, now concerns only yellow fever. Yellow fever vaccination is given for two different reasons:

Travelers should therefore be vaccinated if they visit a country where there is a risk of exposure to yellow fever. They must be vaccinated if they visit a country that requires yellow fever vaccination as a condition of entry. This condition applies to all travelers who arrive from (including airport transit) a yellow fever endemic country.

Travelers should be provided with a written record of all vaccines administered (patient-retained record), preferably using the international vaccination certificate (required in the case of yellow fever vaccination).

To find out which vaccines are needed for the region you will be visiting, you may go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Travelers’ Health website. You will find a wealth of travel information at this site: food and water recommendations, disease outbreak areas, recommended precautions and much more. It’s a great place to start, when planning a trip.

You may also call the Utah Immunization Program Hotline at 1-800-275-0659 for additional questions or information.

If you are planning on traveling out of the country, make sure your immunization needs are assessed and your vaccinations completed in plenty of time to assure immunity. Most vaccines build immunity in approximately one week to ten days. However, immunizing against some diseases requires multiple vaccinations and may take six months or more to complete. Be sure to find out which vaccines you will need as soon as you know your travel plans. Remember that vaccine immunity may be the most important thing you bring with you!

Did you know some over-the-counter and prescription medicine may be illegal in other countries?

Travel clinics make it easier to plan your trip.

Did you know motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy U.S. citizens in foreign countries?

Student Health Center

Student affairs, main navigation, appointments/hours/location.

Student Health is located at the Madsen Health Center .

If Student Health is closed, please visit the After Hours Resource Guide .

555 Foothill Dr. Level 1 Salt Lake City, UT 84112

Phone: 801-581-6431 Fax: 801-585-5294

Appointments

Please call in advance for an appointment or schedule online.

The Student Health Center  offers both virtual visits through Zoom for Healthcare and in-office visits for students during our normal operating hours listed below. (Not all insurances cover visits with Student Health-please check with your individual insurance plan or with the receptionist when scheduling.)

Appointments are 15, 30 or 45 minutes long. If you must cancel or reschedule your appointment, call at least one hour before your scheduled appointment to open a spot for other students and avoid a missed appointment charge. Longer appointments allow health care providers an opportunity to evaluate thoroughly your immediate health concerns and discuss all aspects of your health including preventive health care.

• Operating Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30 am to 5 pm
• Appointment Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 am to 4 pm
• Appointments for vaccines and lab tests only: Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 am to 4 pm
• TB testing hours by appointment only: Monday through Friday 9am-4pm. Quantiferon Gold Blood Test only  No TB skin testing at this time.

Note: Clinic is closed on Wednesdays,12-2pm.

Note: All immunizations, titers, and TB test  require an appointment. Please schedule online ( click here )or call for details/questions.

Extended Hours

• Tuesdays, evening appointments to 6:30 pm
• Fall and Spring Semesters only
• Tuesday, 7:30 am to 7:30 pm

Note: Extended hours do not apply to Tuesdays during or near breaks/holidays.

After Hours 

Please see our Appointments After Hours page or View University of Utah Ugent Care options. You may also call 801-581-6431 for recorded directory information.

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Per diem is the preferred method of meal reimbursement for employees traveling on university business. We rely upon federal per diem rates, and we pay per diem based upon a 24-hour basis. Rates vary by city, and a particular city may have different rates based upon heavy or light tourist activity throughout the year. For reimbursement purposes, we adhere only to Meals and Incidental Expenses (M&IE) . The per diem rate is meant to cover the expense for meals and incidentals such as laundry and tips.

Note: Brochures or registration summaries are required for trips where the purpose is a publicized meeting. We encourage departments to deduct the value of meals provided by the conference or meeting based upon the federal M&IE table. Recommended values are provided for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and incidentals.

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How to Find Help For Your Mental Health in Utah

We all face difficult times. Millions of people are affected by mental illness each year. If you or someone you love is struggling with persistent unease, significant mood fluctuations, or difficulty with everyday activities or relationships, remember that you are not alone. You deserve to find the help you need. But how do you find a qualified mental health provider, one who can help you and your loved ones when help is needed the most? Finding care can often be a confusing process, and most people don't know where to start. 

“I can hear the desperation in their voice . I t’s thick with emotion and vulnerability,” says David Eldredge , LCSW . As senior director of clinical operations at Huntsman Mental Health Institute (HMHI) at University of Utah Health , Eldredge often hears from people who are eager to find help for themselves or a loved one.

“There’s a critical window of time when someone expresses a need for help,” Eldredge acknowledges. “They need hope and they deserve help as quickly as possible. But it can be difficult to find a qualified provider, especially when you’re not sure what kind of help you need.” David Eldredge LCSW

Who can you turn to for help?

“The first step is your primary care provider, if you have one,” Eldredge says. “If you have an established provider, they can help schedule you to discuss mental health concerns. A primary care provider can prescribe short-term medication and will refer you to a qualified specialist. Plus, any stigma we might feel about asking for help is lessened with a trusted doctor.”

If your doctor is based in Utah, they can talk to a psychiatrist about your condition through a free, state-funded program called CALL-UP .

HMHI can provide mental health support for adults of all ages, teens, and youth. To learn more, visit our website or call 801-583-2500 .

Most commercial insurance plans offer a network of credentialed providers to members. Check your plan’s website for more information.

What if I'm experiencing a crisis, or someone I love is in a crisis?

“The value of crisis services is that the caller defines the crisis. It can be: ‘I’m feeling really sad today,’ or ‘I’m not sure where to turn for help,’” says Eldredge, who spent the early years of his career working in crisis services. Services include:

988 national suicide hotline

SafeUT app for students, teachers, frontline workers, and the National Guard

Utah crisis line : 1-800-273-8255

Utah non-crisis emotional support : 801-587-1055

At Huntsman Mental Health Institute’s Receiving Center , a walk-in resource available at any time, you define your crisis and are welcomed by compassionate professionals who connect you to the help you need.   

What do all the letters mean?

Being licensed as a mental health counselor in Utah is an official designation. The path to licensure requires the completion of a master’s or doctoral degree in clinical mental health counseling or counselor education, as well as supervision from a program accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. While the acronyms might seem mysterious, they can help you understand if someone has been professionally certified. Here's a quick overview of what those designations mean:

LCSW : licensed clinical social worker

LCMHC : licensed clinical mental health counselor

CMHC : clinical mental health counselor

MSW : master’s degree in social work

Psychiatrist : A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. Psychiatrists must complete medical school plus an additional four years of residency training in psychiatry. Their medical degree allows them to prescribe medication.

Psychologist : Licensure as a psychologist is based on education, examination, and supervised professional experience. Utah psychologists are licensed by the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.

How can you find a provider on your own?

Utah’s Division of Professional Licensing allows consumers to check the legitimacy of any provider. Visit dopl.utah.gov to search a provider’s credentials and licensure and to see if any citations have been filed against them.

Here are a few questions that Eldredge suggests for a prospective mental health provider:

What mental health conditions do you specialize in?

Do you use evidence-based treatments*?

What outcomes have you seen for other people with my symptoms?

What happens if I need to talk to you outside of our scheduled appointments?

HMHI has partnered with the Ad Council to build public awareness about the stigma that keeps many from seeking help for mental health needs. Visit loveyourmindtoday.org to learn more about different mental health concerns and find local resources.

*Evidence-based practice is the integration of the best available research with clinical expertise in the context of patient characteristics, culture, and preferences.

Trust your instincts

At the end of your search, trust your instincts when making a decision.

“As clinicians, we take an oath,” Eldredge says. “First and foremost—‘do no harm’. Seek out the most qualified provider and then follow your instincts. If you’re seeing or sensing red flags—such as upfront cash billing, an odd clinic setting, or a lack of credentials—pay attention to that.”

Choosing a nonjudgmental, culturally sensitive provider with whom you can build a good rapport, mutual trust, and respect is an essential foundation for the relationship.

“I encourage people to give a licensed therapist at least three sessions to see how it’s working,” says Danielle Valdez, LCSW, who leads community outreach and referral services at Huntsman Mental Health Institute. “Finding a therapist can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to settle. You deserve to feel safe and supported on your journey Danielle Valdez LCSW

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Monthly Momentos: April 2024

This ongoing blog series celebrates people, milestones, and achievements from across our health system. Content is adapted from monthly updates shared with the University of Utah Board of Trustees .

From opening a school-based clinic at West High to celebrating Match Day to a PSA with Elmo, there was no shortage of good news this month at University of Utah Health.  

• Becker’s Hospital Review named Mary Beckerle, PhD, CEO of Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah and Associate Vice President of Cancer Affairs, one of 196+ women hospital presidents and CEOs to know in 2024 .
• Deborah Yurgelun-Todd, PhD, was named a Top Female Scientist in the U.S. for 2023 for the second year in a row. She is a professor of psychiatry and associate director of the Mental Research, Education, and Clinical Centers for the Salt Lake City VA Health Care System.
• Wendy Hobson-Rohrer, MD, MSPH, Associate Vice President for Health Sciences Education, was selected as Program Chair-elect for the Pediatric Academic Societies Meeting, the largest international academic gathering for pediatrics.
• Krystal L. Moorman-Bishir, PharmD, associate professor of pharmacotherapy, is one of 28 pharmacists nationwide to be named a 2024 American Society of Health System Pharmacists Fellow .
• Liz Sloss, PhD, MBA, RN, research assistant professor of nursing, was selected for the competitive two-year  Alliance of Nursing Informatics (ANI) Emerging Leaders program.
• “ Winding Path ,” a U of U Health-produced documentary featuring a U medical student, and “ Between Earth and Sky ,” a documentary featuring U biologist Nalini Nadkarni, played at the Martha’s Vinyard Film Festival . “Winding Path” also played at the Sonoma Film Festival and Maoriland Film Festival in New Zealand.

Achievements in Education

• Graduating medical students at the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine participated in nationwide Match Day . Students learned which specialties, hospitals, and care centers they have matched to for their residency training. The University of Utah had a  97.3% match rate with 106 students matching to 89 programs, in 24 specialties, across 34 states. Additionally, 37 students matched into primary care specialties and 38 matched into Utah residencies
• The School of Dentistry continues providing care for more of Utah’s underserved communities while offering top-notch clinical experience for its students and residents. In 2023, the school had 34,216 visits from underserved patients (self-pay and Medicaid), up from 29,026 visits in 2022.

Achievements in Clinical Care 

• Utah ranks fourth among the top 15 best states for physicians to practice in the U.S. , according to Wallethub’s 2024 ranking. The annual ranking is based on opportunity, competition, and medical environment.

Achievements in Research 

In a two-year study led by Madeleine French, MS, RDN, an instructor in nutrition and integrative physiology, Spanish language interpreters and nutrition graduate students taught more than 100 classes in Salt Lake County to introduce participants to healthy, economical, culturally relevant cooking. As participants transitioned to eating more fruit and drinking less sugar-sweetened beverages, they saw significant improvements in blood pressure, BMI, and triglycerides. The research intervention findings were published in Nutrients in February 2024.  

Under the direction of Sean Flynn, PhD, director of research training programs, a new Biomedical Research Education Office (BREO) was formed to prepare trainees to be leaders in the modern biomedical workforce. As a hub for research and education, BREO will serve graduate students and postdoctoral scholars in the five health sciences schools and colleges.

Achievements in Community Collaboration

• The Department of Pediatrics partnered with the Salt Lake City School District and Salt Lake Education Foundation to open the state’s first high-school-based clinic at West High School . The clinic provides integrated physical, mental, and behavioral care for all high schoolers in the SLC School District. It’s also a adolescent medicine training site for U of U Health primary care physicians.
• Sesame Workshop, the global impact nonprofit behind Sesame Street, launched a new public service announcement video with the Ad Council for their “Love, Your Mind” campaign developed with Huntsman Mental Health Institute. The video features Elmo and his friends highlighting the benefits of humming for people’s overall emotional well-being.

Michael Good, MD

Michael Good is CEO of University of Utah Health and A. Lorris Betz Senior Vice President for Health Sciences. Good ensures the professional and educational success of 25,000 talented faculty, staff, and students who comprise U of U Health, one of the nation’s premier academic health systems. He received an MD from the University of Michigan and completed residency and a research fellowship in anesthesiology at the University of Florida.  

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A special weather statement in effect for Karnes and Wilson Regions

Utah gop picks trump-backed mayor as nominee to replace sen. mitt romney, but primary foes await.

Hannah Schoenbaum

Associated Press

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Riverton, Utah, Mayor Trent Staggs, a U.S. Senate candidate endorsed by former President Donald Trump, addresses delegates at the Utah Republican Party Convention, Saturday, April 27, 2024, in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/Hannah Schoenbaum)

SALT LAKE CITY – The Utah Republican Party on Saturday selected Trent Staggs as its nominee to replace Mitt Romney in the U.S. Senate , hours after the local official received former President Donald Trump’s endorsement.

While the endorsement carried Staggs through convention with more than two-thirds of delegate votes, that support may not translate to success at the ballot box. The mayor from Riverton, just south of Salt Lake City, still must face other top contenders in the June 25 GOP primary, including U.S. Rep. John Curtis and former Utah House Speaker Brad Wilson .

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Republican Party nominations historically have had little bearing on the decisions of Utah voters.

Curtis, who is more moderate, and Wilson, a Trump supporter, already qualified for the primary by gathering signatures. The winner will proceed to the November general election to face Democrat Caroline Gleich, a mountaineer and environmental activist who earned her party’s nomination earlier Saturday.

Staggs, 49, built his base by calling delegates personally and courting the endorsements of Trump and many of his allies nationwide. The embattled former president wrote Saturday morning on his Truth Social platform that Staggs is a “100% MAGA” candidate who knows how to stop inflation, grow the economy and secure the U.S.-Mexico border.

Staggs was the first candidate to enter the Senate race, even before Romney announced he was not seeking reelection.

“Let’s replace Joe Biden’s favorite Republican with Donald Trump’s favorite Republican in Utah,” Staggs said Saturday, criticizing Romney for being a moderate who often has challenged Trump and other Republican leaders.

Staggs' strategy of aligning with the brash, far-right president does not guarantee victory in Utah, one of the few red states that has been reluctant to embrace Trump.

Staggs supporter Eric Buckley said he is confident the endorsement will be well received by Utah voters. The Davis County delegate said that even before Trump’s recommendation he already had chosen to back Staggs for being the first to challenge Romney.

“It was his stance on the corruption in D.C. that exists and his promise to stand up against the moderate Republicans and the Democrats pushing through their agenda without any type of resistance,” Buckley said.

Curtis, 63, is expected to have broader appeal among primary voters. He has been compared to Romney for pushing back against hardliners in his party, particularly on climate change .

Davis County delegate Jonathan Miller, who donned a “Team Mitt” baseball cap, said Curtis is his pick because he has proven his willingness to work across the aisle to get results in Congress.

Although Wilson, 55, did not earn Trump's backing, he has endorsed the president's reelection bid and has promised to be a “conservative fighter” on Capitol Hill. His elaborate expo booth in the convention hall featured a tractor plowing through a pile of cinder blocks labeled the “Biden Agenda.”

The nearly 4,000 delegates overwhelmingly supported “convention-only” candidates such as Staggs and state Rep. Phil Lyman, who was chosen as the party's gubernatorial nominee over incumbent Gov. Spencer Cox, for opting not to collect signatures. The practice is viewed by many as circumventing the convention.

“That’s a cheap way out,” Cache County delegate Tim Lindsay said. “I respect a candidate who respects the convention process.”

Party picks also were among the farthest-right candidates in their contests. Delegates booed moderates such as Cox and Curtis as they took the stage.

The governor laughed it off, noting that many great leaders before him were booed at past conventions but won at the polls. Cox, who has qualified for the primary with signatures, pushed back against criticisms of his initiative to reduce political polarization.

“Maybe you hate that I don’t hate enough,” he said.

Political observers say Cox remains the likely favorite in the primary. Lyman, his challenger, is a former county commissioner turned legislator best known for organizing an illegal ATV ride in protest of a federal land decision.

The 2014 protest ride came after federal officials closed a southeast Utah canyon to motorized vehicles to protect Native American cliff dwellings, artifacts and burials. Lyman argued the closure constituted overreach by the federal government.

A judge in 2015 sentenced him to 10 days in jail and three years of probation after a jury found him guilty of misdemeanor illegal use of ATVs and conspiracy. He reminded delegates of his short sentence just before the vote and pledged to continue fighting federal overreach if elected.

The state party's two major factions — the farther-right Trump supporters and the moderates who are losing their most prominent figure with Romney's departure — are set to continue sparring at the polls this summer. The primary will test Trump's popularity in the Beehive State as he tries to fight his way back to the White House during legal proceedings including an ongoing hush money trial .

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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Pair of giant pandas set to travel from China to San Diego Zoo under conservation partnership

By the associated press - | apr 29, 2024.

This photo released by the San Diego Zoo shows giant panda Yun Chuan on Thursday, April 25, 2024, in the Sichuan province of China. A pair of giant pandas will soon make the journey from China to the U.S., where they will be cared for at the San Diego Zoo as part of an ongoing conservation partnership between the two nations, officials said Monday, April 29. (Ken Bohn/San Diego Zoo via AP)

SAN DIEGO (AP) — A pair of giant pandas will soon make the journey from China to the U.S., where they will be cared for at the San Diego Zoo as part of an ongoing conservation partnership between the two nations, officials said Monday.

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance said its caretakers recently visited China to meet the giant pandas, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, ahead of their planned trip to Southern California. An exact date for the handoff hasn’t been set.

Yun Chuan, a mild-mannered male who’s nearly 5 years old, has “deep connections” to California, the wildlife alliance said. His mother, Zhen Zhen, was born at the San Diego Zoo in 2007 to parents Bai Yun and Gao Gao.

Xin Bao is a nearly 4-year-old female described as “a gentle and witty introvert with a sweet round face and big ears.”

“Our conservation partners in China shared photographs and personality traits of Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, but meeting them in person was so special,” said Dr. Megan Owen, the alliance’s vice president of conservation science. “It’s inspiring as people from around the world come together to conserve, protect, and care for these special bears, and we can’t wait to welcome them to San Diego.”

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has a nearly 30-year partnership with leading conservation institutions in China focused on protecting and recovering giant pandas and the bamboo forests they depend on.

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Florida Abortion Ban to Take Effect, Cutting Off Major Access Point

The state has dozens of clinics that serve tens of thousands of women a year, including from across the Southeast. The six-week ban will require most to travel much farther.

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By Patricia Mazzei

Reporting from Miami

Florida has long played a significant role in the American abortion landscape, with dozens of clinics providing the procedure to tens of thousands of residents a year while also taking in patients from across the Southeast.

That era will end, at least for now, on Wednesday, when a ban on most abortions after six weeks of pregnancy will take effect. The strict new law will replace a 15-week ban and require most Floridians and other Southerners seeking the procedure to travel to Virginia or farther.

Almost every other state in the region banned or sharply restricted abortion after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022; many had few abortion providers even before the ruling. North Carolina still allows abortions up to 12 weeks , but with a 72-hour waiting period that makes it a less practical option for out-of-state patients.

“The surrounding states have been desperate to find a place to go within a reasonable distance,” said Kelly Flynn, the president and chief executive of A Woman’s Choice, a network of abortion clinics, including one in Jacksonville, Fla., “and we have been that place.”

Instead of the number of abortions in Florida decreasing after Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the 15-week ban into law in April 2022, as proponents had hoped, it went up because more patients were coming from Southern states with more restrictions or near-total bans.

Florida, the third-largest state by population, has about 50 clinics and last year provided some 84,000 abortions; nearly 8,000 of them were for women from outside the state. Until July 2022, Florida allowed abortions until about 24 weeks.

“We don’t want to be an abortion tourism destination,” Mr. DeSantis, a Republican, said last year .

Lawmakers and Mr. DeSantis approved the six-week ban in April 2023, when the governor was preparing to run for president. His message to Republican primary voters focused on how he had reshaped Florida’s political identity , turning it from a swing state to a beacon of right-wing policy. His campaign failed , but the policies remained.

The six-week ban was conditioned on the Florida Supreme Court first upholding the 15-week ban, which abortion rights groups had challenged. The conservative court did so on April 1, starting a 30-day countdown for the six-week ban to become law.

The new law provides exceptions for abortions to take place up to 15 weeks for pregnancies that result from rape, incest or human trafficking, though women would be required to show documentation such as a restraining order, medical record or police report. There are also exceptions to save the life of the woman and, before the third trimester, for fatal fetal abnormalities.

The law also prohibits doctors from prescribing medication abortions through telehealth and dispensing the pills by mail. Medical professionals who violate any part of the ban could face criminal penalties.

Many women do not realize that they are pregnant by the sixth week, so backers of abortion rights say the new law will represent a near-total prohibition — exactly the shutdown of access that they worried would happen when Roe was overturned.

Unlike Florida, many Southern states had few abortion clinics left even before that ruling. When Texas, the nation’s second most populous state, banned the procedure at six weeks in 2021, it had about 20 clinics that provided about 50,000 abortions a year, significantly fewer than Florida.

The six-week ban is “going to protect thousands of unborn children,” said John Stemberger, the president of Liberty Counsel Action, an anti-abortion lobbying group.

He said Florida has almost 200 anti-abortion crisis pregnancy centers, which sometimes provide pregnant women with ultrasounds and baby supplies. That is about four times the number of the state’s abortion clinics, which are mostly clustered around big cities. Mr. Stemberger said he has worked with anti-abortion groups to expand the centers’ capacities.

“There’s going to be an increased demand for their services,” he said. “We want to communicate to mothers who are abortion-minded that there are options.”

Abortion providers and nonprofit funds that help women pay for abortions in Florida have spent the last year preparing for this moment.

Between 2018 and 2023, about 60 percent of abortions in Florida happened after six weeks of pregnancy, according to state data .

Clinics are scheduling ultrasounds earlier and ramping up other health care services to try to stay open. Funds are training volunteers to plan travel for patients to Illinois, Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. (North Carolina is closer but its waiting period to get the procedure makes it a less feasible destination.)

All of the changes could prove temporary: A ballot measure in November will ask Florida voters whether to amend the constitution to allow abortions until about 24 weeks. It will require more than 60 percent support to pass, a high threshold, and it would not take effect until January, assuming that lawmakers or anti-abortion groups did not challenge it in court .

For now, Florida will have to adjust to being another Southern state where abortions are extremely rare.

“We’re going to be an abortion desert,” said Michelle Quesada, a spokeswoman for Planned Parenthood of South, East and North Florida, which operates eight clinics in the state. (Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida operates another nine clinics.) “It’s going to be really challenging for patients.”

Ms. Quesada said that after the Florida Supreme Court ruling clinics called patients scheduled to be seen in May and moved up their appointments. Out-of-state patients have been sent as far south as Miami — more than 600 miles from the Georgia and Alabama borders — because wait times in Tallahassee and Jacksonville, in the northern part of the state, have been two or three weeks, she added.

In the last year, abortion clinics have added other services, including prenatal care and adoption referrals. They have also seen an increase in patients requesting contraception, Ms. Quesada said, including vasectomies for men in their 30s and 40s.

Dr. Marian Sampson, an obstetrician and gynecologist who provides abortions for Planned Parenthood’s clinics in Fort Myers and Naples, on Florida’s Gulf Coast, said that over the past two weeks, “pretty much every appointment slot is double booked every day.”

Inevitably, clinics will be far less busy under the six-week ban, said Nikki Madsen, the co-executive director of the Abortion Care Network, a national association of independent abortion clinics that had 36 members in Florida as of last year.

“The number of patients those clinics will see will drastically plummet,” she said. “When a clinic closes, it’s incredibly difficult to reopen.”

Clinics and abortion funds said that, unlike in the months after Roe was overturned, they have not seen an uptick in contributions since the ruling allowing the six-week ban. That is most likely because donors are focused on funding the November ballot measure.

“While that is a positive thing if it passes, there’s a lot of time between May 1 and January when that would go into effect,” said McKenna Kelley, who is on the board of the Tampa Bay Abortion Fund. “We are doing the work day in and day out.”

Not only will it be more expensive for funds to help patients now that they have to also pay for their travel, but some people may find the plane travel that can be required overwhelming, said Jessica Hatem, the executive director of the Emergency Medical Assistance Abortion Fund in West Palm Beach. The fund was founded in 1972, pre-Roe, to help women in Florida go to New York for legal abortions.

“When we are sending people on a plane, generally it’s their first time flying,” she said. “When we’re sending Southerners to the North in the middle of winter, people don’t have coats.”

It is hard to predict just how much the number of abortions performed in Florida will drop after Wednesday, said Isaac Maddow-Zimet, a data scientist at the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive health research group that supports abortion rights.

Researchers found that abortions declined by about 50 percent in Texas and Georgia after those states’ six-week bans took effect. South Carolina had a much steeper drop-off — about 71 percent, he said — in part because so many women had been traveling there for abortions from other states. The South Carolina Supreme Court upheld a six-week ban law in August.

“Every state,” Mr. Maddow-Zimet said, “has ripple effects through every other state.”

Patricia Mazzei is the lead reporter for The Times in Miami, covering Florida and Puerto Rico. More about Patricia Mazzei