Welcome to Student Health
We understand that University is a new experience and as many of you are away from home for the first time Dunedin may be a long way from home, this information has been written to help you feel more comfortable about the services that we provide and how to access them.
Embracing inclusivity and manaakitanga, Student Health Services engages with all students and the diverse university community to support health and well-being; enabling students to reach their full potential and thrive during their Otago experience.
Student Health Services (SHS) is centrally located on campus in a purpose built facility. We are a team of nurses, general practitioners, mental health and well-being clinicians and administrative staff.
We provide the best primary health care possible in a manner that is inclusive, safe, compassionate, confidential, timely care with mutual responsibility and respect.
Our services
Student Health Services comprises a large team of fully qualified doctors, nurses, mental health clinicians and a psychiatrist, supported by an experienced team of reception and administrative staff. You can self-refer to any of our services.
Visit the Student Health Services page for more information.
Freephone
Phone us for free from landlines or cellphones on 0800 479 821.
Can I still be enrolled at home?
Student Health is not a member of a Primary Health Organisation (PHO) so you can still remain enrolled at your home GP Practice.
Visit the Services we provide page for more detailed information.
Forms to complete at first visit
All new students will be asked to complete our enrolment form and medical history questionnaire (PDF) about past medical and surgical history, immunisations, medications, history of allergies, family history and lifestyle factors: smoking, alcohol etc. – You can complete this prior to your appointment and bring it with you.
Privacy
See 'Privacy/confidentiality' on our Policy page
Keeping your details up to date
If you change your address/ phone number during semester please update your details on e-vision and let us know at the time of booking your appointment.
Longer appointments
If you require an appointment for longer than 15 minutes please let the receptionist know at time of booking
Community Services Card
Domestic students only
If you don't already have one, please apply as the cost of your GP appointment will be cheaper ($25 down to $10).
Community Services Card – Application form (PDF)
We welcome your feedback
Visit our online feedback section or contact Student Health.
International students
If you are an international student please make us aware of who your insurer is when booking with us.
Student Health Pre-departure Information for International Students (PDF)
Not all consults are covered by your insurance. Please read your policy for details or visit the International website:
Afterhours healthcare
As you may be away from home for the first time you will need to know where to access emergency medical care afterhours. Make yourself aware of where Dunedin Urgent Doctors and the Dunedin Hospital Emergency Department are as well as your nearest Pharmacy as they can provide some over the counter treatments and most pharmacies offer a 10% student discount
Pre-paying your account
Students or parents may wish to pay a small sum on account to cover potential consultations during the year. For example $50 would allow for 5 x GP visits (assuming Community Services Card). You can make a payment to Student Health following our 'How to pay your account' section of our website.