Health concerns shouldn’t cause you concern on your Austria adventure.
Before studying abroad, you should have a general physical done by your primary health care provider. This is especially important for those who have a chronic health condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or asthma. You should make sure that all of your routine immunizations are up-to-date.
Seeing a Doctor Abroad
An English-speaking doctor is available in the town of Gaming. If you need allergy shots on a regular basis while in Austria or need to keep medication refrigerated, please contact your family physician and notify the Office of Austrian Enrollment one to two months before departure to make the necessary arrangements.
Should you need to schedule a doctor visit, you will need to speak with one of your Residence Directors who will assist you in making the appointment and accompanying you, if necessary.
Hospitalization and Emergency Room Services
The nearest hospital is approximately 15 minutes from the Kartause in the town of Scheibbs.
Food Allergies
Please list any food allergies on the General Health & Emergency Contact Form. Franciscan University staff will then gather that information and do their best to accommodate each student. Common food allergies that Franciscan University staff are able to accommodate include lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance/celiac, vegetarian options etc.
Health Forms
Prior to departure, we ask that you note an emergency contact for your time abroad along with any medical conditions that might cause problems while in Austria or any medications to which you are allergic on the General Health & Emergency Contact form as well as the Austria Health & Safety Disclosure form.
Prescriptions/Medications
You should try to obtain a four-month supply of all prescription medications to carry over to Austria. Make sure to keep your medication in the original containers and carry a letter from your doctor to present to customs officials. As a back-up and/or if you must refill a prescription while abroad, ask your doctor to give you a generic breakdown (not just a generic name) of your prescription, so that you can refill your prescription overseas, if necessary. Please note that vitamins, cold medicine, and other over the counter remedies are difficult to find and expensive in Austria. Also, if you wear glasses or contact lenses you should take along an extra pair or a copy of the prescription.
In summary, you should:
- Bring all needed medication in the original containers.
- Bring enough for the entire semester (16 weeks).
- Bring a prescription from your doctor that provides the generic breakdown and dosages.
- Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage.
- Do not mail prescription medication if at all possible.
