Immunization and Infectious Disease Prevention Policy
See Immunization and Infectious Disease Prevention Policy
UT Southwestern demonstrates its commitment to its students through a comprehensive system designed to maintain their health and provide support if exposures occur during academic or training activities. By utilizing this system, UT Southwestern contributes to the continued health and safety of our students, our health care workforce, and our patients, and consequently to the health of society.
In the event of a needle stick or exposure to human blood, bodily fluids, or other potentially infectious material, all students must report the exposure immediately in accordance with the applicable procedure. If a student is exposed while performing program-related assignments, the cost of initial testing and any prophylaxis treatment indicated by the appropriate exposure protocol not covered by insurance will be paid for by UT Southwestern. Students are required to carry comprehensive health insurance in case an unexpected illness or injury occurs. Disability insurance is recommended. Information on obtaining disability insurance is available through the Student Health Services.
Although the risk of contracting serious illness from these hazards is very small, UT Southwestern seeks to reduce incidents of students’ exposure to infectious diseases and environmental hazards. For example, students are required to provide proof of hepatitis B immunity prior to enrollment; receive a tuberculosis screening intermittently during their enrollment; and otherwise comply with the immunization requirements set by state law and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. Clinical students receive training in blood-drawing techniques and patient-isolation policies prior to clinical participation. Students must complete the infectious disease prevention and protocol education and training as required by each training program, including any applicable clinical or laboratory safety training. Compliance with all training requirements will be verified by the program.
Students also receive instructions from their schools as part of onboarding that outlines the proper course of action should a hazardous exposure occur. Students are responsible for understanding and adhering to all infection control policies, programs, and protocols that are applicable to their training program and to the hospital, clinic, or department in which they are training (e.g., hand hygiene, disinfection/sterilization, isolation precautions). The effects of infectious and environmental disease or disability on student learning activities are documented in the catalogs of the schools and in institutional policies.