Medical Absence Policy

Student Health Center Illness Excuse Guideline

Medical excuses may be issued by:

• the Student Health Center
• documentation from an off-campus medical provider
• telehealth services with proper documentation
• referral to a higher level of care which may include referrals to the emergency room or a specialist

There is no circumstance in which the Student Health Center can provide a medical excuse if a student was not seen by the provider.

The Student Health Center will issue a medical excuse only if it is evident to the clinical provider that the student should not be in class.

Excused absences may be given for:

• Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Student may return to class when fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication or per provider instruction once treatment has started.

• Communicable illnesses such as, but not limited to flu, COVID-19, pink eye, strep throat, as determined by the evaluating provider. This is not an exhaustive list, rather illustrative of some common examples. There are other justifiable excuses provided based on professional discretion that are not communicable such as severe migraine.
  • Students may return to class once they have started prescribed treatment and are cleared by the provider or after the recommended exclusion period.

Students must be evaluated at the time of illness; excuses will not be backdated. Excuses will reflect only the dates the provider deems the student unable to attend class or other activities.  If a student believes additional time is needed, they will need to come back and see the provider.

If you have concerns about your experience with Medical Services please make a report to the Associate Dean of Students/Director of Health Services so that the matter can be looked into in a timely manner. To make an appointment, you can call (941) 893-2856 or email erobinso@ringling.edu.