UNSOM Students: Resources: Student Handbook: Policies and Procedures
ACADEMIC STANDARDS
Students are governed by the rules and regulations of the School of Medicine, the University of Nevada, Reno and the University of Nevada System. Therefore, students are responsible for familiarization with the regulations affecting them. For further information, see the University of Nevada System Code. This handbook contains only basic information; not all rules and regulations have been listed in their entirety. Standards are set by the faculty and decisions regarding achievement of standards will be determined by the faculty, the Student Development Committee and the Dean.
Student Development Committee
This committee is charged with overseeing medical students' professional development, cognitive and non cognitive progress and welfare. The committee consists of one student representative from each class, three faculty members from the basic science departments, and three from the clinical departments. The Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs serves as a non-voting, ex officio member. The chairman is appointed by the Dean.
The committee usually meets monthly to discuss the personal and professional growth of medical students and a wide range of cognitive and non cognitive issues. The Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs presents information on behalf of the students and faculty and conveys discussions and recommendations from the committee to the Dean of the School of Medicine for final action.
Student Responsibilities
As future physicians, medical students have a responsibility to guide their actions to serve the best interests of their patients. This responsibility is upheld by maintaining the highest degree of personal and professional integrity. With this in mind, the following standards are expected of all medical students at the University of Nevada School of Medicine, and failure to abide by these rules and responsibilities may result in dismissal. Students are expected to uphold the principles of and abide by the following Honor Pledge:
University of Nevada School of Medicine Honor Pledge
I will strive to maintain the highest standards of responsibility, integrity and professionalism during my education and throughout my professional career.
I will neither receive nor give unauthorized assistance on examinations or assignments and I will approach my education with honesty and integrity.
I will respect and support my classmates, colleagues and teachers at all times.
I will strive to acknowledge my limitations, strive to learn from my mistakes and work to improve my skills to the benefit of my patients.
I will strive to commit myself to a lifetime of learning and teaching both the art and science of medicine.
I will strive to attend to all my patients with competence and compassion.
I will maintain patient confidentiality and be tactful in my words and actions.
I will honor the diversity of patients’ experiences, cultures and beliefs
I will recognize the privileges afforded to me as a physician and a physician-in-training and promise not to abuse them.
I will use my knowledge to improve the lives of others and never to harm.
I make these promises solemnly, freely and upon my honor.
Medical students shall demonstrate dedication to acquiring the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to provide competent care to their patients. Medical students shall:
- assume personal responsibility for their medical education;
continue to study, apply and advance scientific knowledge and make relevant information available to patients, colleagues and the public;
- seek appropriate consultation in the care of all patients and demonstrate positive interaction with faculty, staff and colleagues; and
as appropriate, take an active role in the planning, implementation and evaluation of the medical education process, by discussion with instructors and peers as well as by written evaluation.
Medical students shall:
- demonstrate the ability to acquire, integrate, and retain information, apply basic science information and lab data, perform well on written exams, and answer questions from clinical teachers.
- demonstrate the ability to assimilate information, comprehend conceptual issues, analyze and correlate clinical information, learn independently, formulate a differential diagnosis, and appreciate the complexity of human problems.
- be conscientious, have initiative and curiosity in learning information, be punctual, have personal standards for achievement and be willing to take on added responsibilities/assignments;
- have the ability to work with patients, families, peers and staff members, communicate ideas, respect others' feelings, cooperate as a team member, display a sense of humor, present an appropriate personal appearance consistent with the classroom or clinical setting and display an interest in working with patients;
- have the ability to take a history, perform a competent physical examination, document in patient records, give case presentations, establish therapeutic plans, perform routine procedures in care of patients, perform psychomotor tasks, adapt to a variety of clinical settings, and understand personal limits in providing health care;
- have integrity, honesty, the ability to receive criticism, responsibility to patients, peers and staff, and reliability in carrying out professional responsibilities;
Medical students shall demonstrate professional behavior expected of a physician within the medical setting and the community. They shall:
be truthful in carrying out educational and clinical responsibilities; never falsify information or purposely misrepresent a situation;
maintain confidentiality of information concerning patients and refrain from discussing cases except under appropriate circumstances;
be punctual, reliable and conscientious in fulfilling professional duties;
not participate in patient care under circumstances in which they are under the influence of any substance or other conditions which could impair their ability to function;
- maintain professional hygiene, demeanor and appearance when in a patient care setting
accept the responsibility to review plans or directives for patient care with the attending physician when, after careful consideration, the student believes that these plans or directives are not in the best interests of the patient;
- clearly identify their role as medical students in patient care setting; and
- not commit any misdemeanors or felonies in any setting, present or past
- respect civil laws, hospital rules and university rules governing the conduct of medical students.
- They shall not commit any misdemeanors or felonies in any setting.
Medical students shall show compassion and respect for themselves, their colleagues, faculty, staff and the patients who participate in their education. They shall:
within the confines of professional confidentiality, establish rapport and deal honestly with patients, colleagues, faculty, staff and the patient's family;
treat with respect patients and their families regardless of their age, sex, race, national origin, religion, socioeconomic status, state of health, personal habits, sexual orientation, cleanliness or attitude; and
care for themselves by following good health maintenance practices related to physical and mental health and seek help in this regard when help is needed.
Medical students must adhere to the requirements of the specific hospital and/or ambulatory setting. This also includes maintenance of current immunization status.
Sources of Support
The demands of medical school can be intense and students are encouraged to seek help early if having academic difficulties. Several sources of support are available at the School of Medicine. Students are initially recommended to contact the coordinator of the course in which they are having difficulty.
For issues of study and test taking skills Dr. Gwen Shonkwiler in the Office of Medical Education is available to work with students throughout the year. Dr. Shonkwiler can be reached through either email (gshonkwiler@medicine.nevada.edu) or phone at (775) 682-7730.
Student Evaluation
The School of Medicine requires performance consistent with the high standards expected of members of the profession of medicine. Progress throughout medical school is assessed with a variety of measures that define a student's performance in both cognitive (knowledge based) and non-cognitive (personal and professional qualities, values, behaviors, attitudes and interpersonal skills) necessary to the development of a physician. This reflects the importance of both sets of attributes (knowledge and professionalism) to the practice of medicine.
The evaluation system is designed to identify strengths and deficiencies at an early stage, and to propose constructive remedial strategies where indicated to assist the student in meeting the required standards. Unsatisfactory performance is identified through failure in one or more courses, clerkships or electives; a pattern of marginal performance; or notations of "evaluator concern" in narrative evaluations of student performance. A pattern of documented concerns about a student’s performance may indicate an unsatisfactory performance when the record is viewed as a whole, even though passing grades may have been assigned. The category of "evaluator concern" permits the faculty to note deficiencies in student performance that are not severe enough to lead to a failing grade. The definitions of unsatisfactory performance as well as required remediation and/or administrative actions are described below.
Satisfactory student performance requires satisfactory completion of all courses, clerkships and electives and other curriculum experiences.
Assessment of student performance occurs continuously throughout the curriculum. Grades are awarded by the faculty in each course, clerkship, or elective. Letter grades (A,B,C,and F) are awarded in basic science courses and Clinical Problem Solving. In first and second year clinical courses, clerkships and clinical electives, an Honors, Pass, Marginal, Fail system is used. The faculty reports their judgment at the conclusion of the course, clerkship or elective on standard evaluation forms. The academic grading system in both the basic sciences and the clinical components of the curriculum assesses cognitive and non-cognitive characteristics. Satisfactory performance in both is required to pass each curriculum component. Unsatisfactory performance in either will lead to a failing grade. The evaluation system provides for the identification of marginal performance and "evaluator concern". Students whose performance is unsatisfactory in a single course, clerkship or elective, or marginal in two or more courses, clerkships or electives, will be reviewed by the Student Development Committee and, at a minimum, will be required to complete a remedial experience followed by an evaluation to determine satisfactory correction of any deficiencies. Students who have received a failing grade and subsequently receive a marginal grade or a notation of "evaluator concern" in another course, clerkship or elective will be reviewed by the Student Development Committee and may be dismissed.
Students failing to demonstrate or adhere to academic standards, including student responsibility, will be subject to dismissal from medical school.
Grading Policy (*Please see Science and Clinical performance evaluation forms in Appendix)
The School of Medicine requires that students must earn a C or better in all basic science courses and demonstrate the appropriate level of professionalism to progress and to graduate. A grade of pass or honors must be received in all clinical courses. Marginal performance can lead to dismissal, as defined below.
Years I and II: The School has adopted a letter grade policy for grading of performance in basic science courses. Students may be awarded a grade of A, B, C, or F. Both cognitive and non-cognitive performance is assessed. The designation "marginal" or "evaluator concern" may be used if any aspect of performance, although not failing, gives rise to faculty concern. Decisions on unsatisfactory or marginal performance will be governed by the following:
Unsatisfactory Performance in Year I and Year II Courses: A passing grade in an individual basic science course is defined as a grade of "C" or above or a "satisfactory" in courses evaluated as Satisfactory/ Unsatisfactory or a pass in an HPF graded course. Failure to achieve a passing grade in any basic science course, whether for cognitive or non-cognitive reasons, constitutes unsatisfactory academic performance and requires action both by the responsible basic science department and the Student Development Committee. The student must demonstrate that the content material covered by the course in question has been mastered. This may be accomplished through reexamination, a further course of study, or both. The criteria for reassessing mastery are established by the individual department with responsibility for the course. Satisfactory performance must be documented in the student's academic record.
Marginal Performance in Year I and Year II Courses: Marginal academic performance in a basic science course is defined as a score that is within five percentage points above the minimum pass score established for that course. Any student who receives a marginal score in a basic science course must meet with the respective course coordinator in an effort to identify the basis for the marginal performance. They must develop a plan of action for the student to rectify any deficiencies. This meeting must be documented and the plan will be placed in the student's academic record. It is the responsibility of the student to set up all meetings and submit the plan. The student's performance may be reviewed by the Student Development Committee at any time.
A marginal performance evaluation may be based on non-cognitive reasons as well. Marginal performance may be identified in courses in Year 1 and 2 that are graded with Honors, Pass, Marginal and Fail. Students’ academic performance will be graded on both cognitive and non-cognitive performance.
Any student who receives a marginal grade in two or more courses will be considered by the Student Development Committee for action. In addition, the student must meet with the course coordinator as described above and must also meet with the Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs for assistance in developing a written plan for improving academic performance. The student is responsible for setting up these meetings. The plan must be approved by the Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs and will become a permanent part of the student’s file. The student’s performance will be reviewed by the Student Development Committee.
Action that will be taken by the Student Development Committee as a result of a marginal or failing grade includes any of the following, either individually or in combination:
1. Close monitoring of future academic performance.
2. Probation.
3. A requirement for a specific remedial course of study or testing with documentation of satisfactory performance.
4. Repetition of one or more courses with documentation of satisfactory performance.
5. Repetition of an academic year of coursework with documentation of satisfactory performance.
6. A recommendation for dismissal or suspension from medical school.
If the student chooses not to set up or attend the appropriate meetings, dismissal may result.
"Evaluator Concern" in Written Evaluations of Student Performance in Year I and Year II Courses: A "Performance Evaluation Sheet" will be completed at the conclusion of each basic science course and sent to the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs to be placed in the student's academic record. Any such form that has indicated an "evaluator concern" will require action.
The remedial action required for a student receiving an "evaluator concern" as part of the written evaluation will be determined by the nature and severity of the concern. The minimum required action is a discussion between the student and the course coordinator in an effort to identify the basis for the evaluator concern and to develop a course of action to be taken by the student to avoid a recurrence of such concerns in future courses. This meeting must be documented and the plan will be placed in the student's permanent academic record.
Any student who receives an "evaluator concern" in a second course must meet with the course coordinator as described above and must also meet with the Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs for assistance in developing a written plan for correcting or addressing the concerns. The plan must be approved by the Associate Dean of Admissions and Student Affairs and will become a permanent part of the student's file.
The student may at any time be discussed by the Student Development Committee.
Any student who receives an "evaluator concern" in a third year course will be discussed by the Student Development Committee. The Student Development Committee may take a course of action up to and including a recommendation for dismissal from medical school.
The student is responsible for setting up meetings with faculty and the Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs. Failure to do so may result in action including dismissal.
Transition into Years III and IV: Recommendations to the Dean on promotion to the third year will be made by the Student Development Committee. Students whose performance in all Year I and Year II courses has been consistently satisfactory and who have passed Step 1 of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) will be eligible for progression into the third year. Such progression may be influenced by a history of “marginal performance” (as defined above) or evaluator concerns.
It is the policy of the University of Nevada School of Medicine that medical students take USMLE Step I no later than June 30th of their sophomore year. If a student does not demonstrate a passing score, he or she must immediately contact the Associate Dean for Student Affairs and the Assistant Dean for Medical Education. The Assistant Dean for Medical Education will make arrangements for timely removal from the clerkship rotations. Before returning to the clerkship rotations, the student must demonstrate a passing score and have permission of the Assistant Dean for Medical Education. In most cases not passing Step 1 of the boards on the first attempt results in delay of graduation by 6 to 12 months.
A medical student will have no more than three opportunities to demonstrate a passing score for Step I. If a student fails on the third attempt he/she will be dismissed from the School of Medicine.
Promotion into the clinical years is a significant event for both medical students and faculty, and marks the successful completion of several important academic milestones. However, students with performance difficulties in the first two years of the curriculum will be monitored closely upon entry into the clinical curriculum; and marginal performance or notations of "evaluator concern" will result in an early review by both the Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs and the Student Development Committee.
Clinical Curriculum: Clinical courses, clerkships and electives require the learning and demonstration of both content knowledge and clinical skills as well as non-cognitive components. These are tested through a combination of cognitive examinations and clinical skills assessments that occur periodically throughout the clinical curriculum. In addition, a comprehensive clinical assessment may be conducted at the end of the third year. The results of this assessment will be used to generate recommendations to each student for fourth-year electives and courses. Satisfactory performance in this assessment may be a prerequisite for graduation.
An honors, pass, marginal, fail system is used in the clinical curriculum. The "Honors" designation is reserved for exceptional performance that "substantially exceeds that normally expected" on the clerkship or elective. The precise definition of an "Honors" performance is determined by the faculty in each clinical department and will be made known to students prior to each clinical experience. Both cognitive and non-cognitive performance is assessed and, as in the basic science courses, the designation "marginal" and/or "evaluator concern" may be used if performance in either domain is marginal or gives rise to concern. Since clinical clerkships and electives involve the care of patients and more closely reflect clinical practice, marginal performance or "evaluator concern" prompts an early review.
A student may be discussed at any time by the Student Development Committee.
Unsatisfactory Performance in Clinical Clerkships and Electives: A passing grade in an individual clinical clerkship or elective is defined as a grade of "pass" or "honors." Failure to achieve a passing grade in any clinical clerkship or elective constitutes unsatisfactory academic performance and requires action by the Student Development Committee. The student must demonstrate that the content material covered by the clerkship or elective in question has been mastered. This will be accomplished through reexamination, a further course of study, or both. The criteria for reassessing mastery are established by the individual department with responsibility for the clerkship or elective. Satisfactory performance must be documented in the student's academic record.
Marginal Performance in Clinical Clerkships and Electives: Marginal academic performance in a clinical clerkship or elective is defined as recurring difficulty in cognitive or non-cognitive performance that does not constitute a failing grade.
Any student whose performance is identified as marginal in a clinical clerkship or elective must meet with the faculty coordinator in an effort to identify the basis for the marginal performance and to develop a course of action to be taken by the student to avoid a recurrence of marginal performance in the future. This meeting must be documented and the course of action plan will be placed in the student's academic record. The student is responsible for setting up these meetings and submitting the course of action plan.
Any student whose performance is determined to be marginal for a second time (basic science or clinical) must meet with the course coordinator as described above and must also seek assistance from the Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs who may refer the matter to the Student Development Committee. The student must develop a written course of action plan for improving academic performance. The plan must be approved by the Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs and will become a permanent part of the student's file.
A marginal performance in three basic science courses, clerkships or electives constitutes unsatisfactory academic performance and requires action by the Student Development Committee.
" Evaluator Concern" in Written Evaluations of Student Performance in Clinical Clerkships or Electives: A "Performance Evaluation Sheet" will be completed at the conclusion of each clinical clerkship or elective and sent to the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs. Any such form that has indicated an "evaluator concern" will require action.
The remedial action required for a student receiving an "evaluator concern" as part of the written evaluation will be determined by the nature and severity of the concern. The minimum required action is a discussion between the student and the course coordinator in an effort to identify the basis for the evaluator concern and to develop a course of action to be taken by the student to avoid a recurrence of such concerns in future courses. This meeting must be documented and the plan will be placed in the student's academic record.
Any student who receives an "evaluator concern" in a second course (basic science or clinical) clerkship or elective must meet with the faculty coordinator as described above and must also meet with the Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs who may refer the matter to the Student Development Committee. The student must develop a written plan for correcting or addressing the concerns. The plan must be approved by the Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs and will be placed in the student's academic record.
The student is responsible for setting up these meetings.
Any student who receives "evaluator concern" in a third course, clerkship or elective will be discussed by the Student Development Committee. The Student Development Committee may take a course of action up to and including a recommendation for dismissal from medical school.
Administrative Action: Action by the Student Development Committee as a result of a failing grade, an evaluation of marginal, and/or evaluator concern includes any of the following, either individually or in combination:
1. Close monitoring of future academic performance.
2. Probation.
3. Repetition of one or more clerkships or electives with documentation of satisfactory performance in the student's academic record.
4. Repetition of an academic year with documentation of satisfactory performance in the student's academic record.
5. A requirement that the student pass an NBME subject test.
6. A recommendation for dismissal or suspension from medical school.
If the student chooses not to set up or attend the appropriate meetings, dismissal may result.
Promotion
The decision for promotion of students from one year to the next is made prior to the beginning of each academic year. To qualify for promotion, a student must adhere to the grading policy. If promotion is denied for failure to meet the professional, cognitive or non cognitive standards, the due process procedures contained in this handbook apply, including written notification and the opportunity to reply.
Students must receive a C or better in all graded courses, a pass or better in all clinical clerkships, electives, and other curriculum experiences demonstrate the appropriate level of professionalism in order to progress and to graduate. Marginal evaluations or evaluator concerns may affect promotion. Each student must take and demonstrate a passing score the United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE) Step 1 prior to progression to the third year clerkships. The USMLE step 2 must be taken before April 1 of the student’s fourth year of medical school.
Leave of Absence
Student-requested leaves of absence due to illness or any other emergency are to be made to the Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs. After counsel with the Student Development Committee, the Associate Dean will make a recommendation to the Dean. Approval is either granted or denied by the Dean. Students who request a leave of absence are expected to attend classes and continue to be students in good standing until such leave is granted. Leaves of absences are not granted for students having academic difficulty.
Student Requested Medical Leave of Absence
1. A leave of absence is available for medical or personal reasons.
2. A student requesting a leave of absence may be required to provide a signed statement to the Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs from his/her health care professional indicating the student is unable to fully participate in his/her academic and/or clinical activities for medical or psychological reasons. The statement should indicate the expected time needed for treatment.
3. The leave of absence must be documented and approved by the Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs and the Dean of the School of Medicine.
4. The maximum term for a medical leave of absence is six (6) months.
5. The leave of absence can be renewed up to three times, for a total of two years, if the need for additional time is again documented as outlined in item 3 above. In addition, the student must provide a course of action to be taken to ensure that he/she is maintaining their knowledge base and, if relevant, clinical skills. The student should be aware that readmission after a leave of absence of greater than six (6) months may require an examination or additional remedial course work to ensure retention of knowledge base and, if relevant, clinical skills.
6. The renewal of a medical leave of absence must be approved by the Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs, the Student Development Committee, and the Dean of the School of Medicine.
7. The total time taken for a medical leave of absence cannot exceed two years during the total period of undergraduate medical training. Should a leave of greater than two years be necessary dismissal will result. The student must reapply for admission to the School of Medicine if they desire to attend medical school. Acceptance under these conditions is not assured. The decision for readmission will be made by the School of Medicine Admissions Committee.
8. The cumulative time students are allowed to complete medical school is six years. Students unable to complete medical school in six years will be dismissed.
Military Activation Policy
1. The activated student will serve for as long as necessary.
2. The Six-Year policy does not apply to activated military.
3. If the military service exceeds two years, remedial coursework will be developed on an individual basis, depending on need, when the student returns before resuming study.
4. Reimbursement issues have been determined by the University of Nevada Reno Student Services including full reimbursement for tuition, fees and books.
Due Process Procedures for Failure to Meet Cognitive and Non-Cognitive Standards
The following procedures are applicable to all students who fail to meet the cognitive (knowledge-based) and non-cognitive (personal and professional qualities, values, behaviors, attitudes and interpersonal skills necessary to the development of a physician) standards expected of students enrolled in the University of Nevada School of Medicine.
The probation, suspension or dismissal of a student shall be taken in accordance with the following procedures:
1. Definitions:
Probation - Probation is a trial period to ascertain a student's fitness for the continued study of medicine. A student may be placed on probation for cognitive or non-cognitive reasons. The length of probation and terms for removal from probation will be specified at the time a student is placed on probation. The terms of probation may include cessation of part or all course work, a remedial course of study, a repetition of part or all of the curriculum, counseling, other cognitive criteria for satisfactory performance. A record of the probation becomes a permanent part of the student's file. Students may not graduate while on probation. No student on probation shall hold a student government office or serve on committees.
Suspension - A suspended student is prohibited from attending classes or otherwise continuing medical training. A student may be suspended for cognitive or non-cognitive reasons. The length of the suspension and terms for resumption of training shall be specified at the time a student is suspended. Students who return to school will most likely be placed on probation. A record of the suspension shall become a permanent part of the student's file.
Dismissal - The student is dismissed from the School of Medicine and is prohibited from any further attendance in class or participation in medical training. A student can be dismissed for cognitive or non-cognitive reasons. No reapplication to attend the School of Medicine shall be considered.
2. Probation, suspension and dismissal are not to be construed as progressive steps, but may occur at any time it is determined a student has failed to meet cognitive or non-cognitive standards.
3. When it is proposed by the appropriate authority and authorized by the Dean to place a student on probation, to suspend a student or to dismiss a student for cognitive or non-cognitive reasons, the student shall be notified in writing of the proposed action, together with the reason or reasons for the proposed action. A student may be suspended immediately when extraordinary circumstances indicate that the student should be suspended pending a meeting with the Student Development Committee, such as danger to the physical or emotional safety of others, or similarly grave circumstances, but in such cases, a meeting shall be scheduled with the Student Development Committee under the procedures of this section as soon as is reasonably possible.
4. The student shall also be notified in writing of the date, time and place of a meeting with the Student Development Committee, at least ten (10) calendar days before the scheduled meeting, at which meeting the student will be given the opportunity to discuss the proposed action with the Committee, to respond to the reason or reasons given for the proposed action and to otherwise present his or her side of the issue or issues raised by the proposed action.
5. The student may waive in writing or decide not to attend the meeting with the Student Development Committee and accept probation, suspension or dismissal.
6. The meeting with the Student Development Committee shall be informal and non adversarial in
nature. No attorneys shall be present. Witnesses shall be permitted and both the student and the Committee shall be permitted to question the witnesses. The chairman of the Committee shall preside over the meeting, keep order and determine the relevancy of the information presented to the Committee. The meeting shall be closed to the general public. Prior to the meeting, the student may inspect his or her School of Medicine Student Affairs file, except those matters therein which are otherwise confidential and which do not concern the reason or reasons for the proposed action. The student may request copy of student file at his or her expense. In addition, the meeting may be recorded by audio tape recorder by the Committee, and the student, at his or her request and expense shall be given a copy of the recording.
7. Within fourteen (14) calendar days after the meeting with the student, the Student Development Committee shall send a written recommendation to the Dean of the School of Medicine for proposed action. Pending a decision of the Dean, the student shall continue enrollment in the School of Medicine, unless extraordinary circumstances exist which would indicate that the student should be suspended pending the Dean's decision, such as danger to the physical or emotional safety of others, or similarly grave circumstances.
8. Within a reasonable time after receiving the written recommendation of the Student Development Committee, the Dean shall make a decision on the action to be taken with regard to the student under these procedures. The student shall be informed of the decision in writing. The Dean's decision shall be final, with no right of appeal.
These procedures are the exclusive procedures applicable to a student's failure to meet cognitive or non-cognitive standards, and no other explicit or implicit process or procedures are applicable, necessary or required.
Terms for Removal from Probation and Suspension
1. Specific terms and conditions for removal from probation or suspension will be established by the Student Development Committee at the time the penalty is imposed. Further terms and conditions as well as conditions for removal may be set upon review of the student's progress.
2. The Student Development Committee will determine whether the conditions for removal of the probation or suspension have been satisfied.
3. Students on probation or suspension will be required to complete a transitional semester after meeting the performance standard set by the Student Development Committee. The student's progress and adjustment to the resumption of regular training shall be monitored by the Student Development Committee throughout the transitional semester. The committee shall determine the time at which the probationary or suspension status shall be removed.
4. Probation for non-cognitive problems must be removed prior to the second semester of the senior year in order for the student to be allowed to graduate. If removal from probation has not been approved, the student's course of study may be extended or the student may be dismissed.
Readmission of Medical Students to the Third and Fourth Years
Scheduling priority will be given to students who have had no disruption in their academic progress in the School of Medicine and to those students who are duly enrolled in the M.D./Ph.D. Program.
Other medical students who request leave or whose medical school education is disrupted as a result of failure to pass a course or clerkship, leave of absence, probation or suspension, will be scheduled on a space available basis.
Students whose academic progress is disrupted as a result of approved leaves, probation, or suspension should be aware that the School of Medicine cannot guarantee that they will progress through the third and fourth years of medical school at the same rate as they would have had they not had a disruption to their progress. A reasonable effort will be made in order to provide the students with readmission to the School of Medicine and to schedule them when space is available.
It is the responsibility of students whose progress through medical school has been disrupted, or modified for any reason, to contact the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs at least six months in advance of any anticipated readmission to determine availability of positions, to complete appropriate forms, and to go through appropriate career counseling.
Planning for the remainder of the medical school career is contingent upon the outcome of a review by the Student Development Committee. Students planning for readmission should contact the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs following the review.
Five-Year Program
A five-year flexible program is available to students in extraordinary circumstances. This program is determined either at the time of admission, by November 1 of the first year, or at the completion of the first year. The student must be in good standing before entry into the five-year program and must maintain satisfactory performance in order to continue with the program. Students considering this program should contact the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs for more information.
Extended Program and Tuition Policy
Requests for extensions of the traditional four-year medical education curriculum occur for many reasons.
Extension of Program Required by the School of Medicine: In some cases, students are required to repeat a year of medical school due to academic difficulty. During the repeated year they may be required to complete remediation and seek academic support services. Students who are required to repeat an academic year during medical school are required to pay full tuition for each year they attend the University of Nevada School of Medicine. Students completing an extended curriculum due to academic reasons are eligible to apply for scholarships and other financial aid during all years of enrollment. Students who are required by the school to repeat a year do not have the option of voluntarily extending their academic programs. The student will be required to pay full tuition and fees for the repeated year.
Voluntary Extension of Academic Program: Students who desire or require additional time for personal reasons can also request the extended curriculum. These reasons include but are not limited to the birth of a child, extended illness of self or a family member, research, international medical experience, or other curricular programs. The Student Development Committee reviews and approves or disapproves individual requests by students for extensions of the academic program.
If a student chooses to extend his or her educational program from four to five years, s/he will be charged tuition for only the first four years of enrollment in the School of Medicine. During his/her fifth year of enrollment, s/he will be eligible for financial aid to cover educational expenses not including tuition. S/he will be charged for any applicable student fees for all years he/she is enrolled in the School of Medicine.
Maximum Number of Years to Complete the M.D. Degree
The maximum number of years allowable for a student to complete the M.D. degree is six academic years. The exception to this policy is for students enrolled in the M.D./Ph.D. Program, whose program may take up to 3 years as specified by the Ph.D. committee. A student failing to complete the medical school program in six years will be dismissed. Students returning from the Ph.D. program or other extended periods away from the UNSOM curriculum will be required to participate in a refresher period of training prior to their return.
Absence from Scheduled Classes and Clerkships
Years I and II: Unless otherwise stated by the individual department and/or course coordinator, attendance at lectures is encouraged; this, however, is at the students' discretion. Students with marginal performance should recognize that a failure to regularly attend classes influences decisions by the Student Development Committee. Attendance at all examinations, laboratories, small group sessions and clinically oriented activities is mandatory.
Students who are unable to attend mandatory activities due to illness or personal problems must inform the course coordinator prior to the absence. Students who must be absent from mandatory activities more than three days must also inform the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs. When ill, students are encouraged to take appropriate time off and seek medical care.
Clerkships and Electives: Students are expected to act as professionals during their clerkship rotations. If a student is unable to arrive at work on time, the student is expected to contact the responsible resident or faculty member. Students are also expected to inform their resident or faculty member when personal matters take them from patient care responsibilities. In addition, students are responsible for arranging coverage while absent.
The responsible resident and/or faculty member must be advised or informed of any days that are being missed due to illness. If a student is ill for more than three days, the clerkship coordinator for the respective clerkship must be informed. In addition, the student must also notify the Office of Medical Education. Depending on the circumstance and the length of time away from the clerkship, the coordinator may give students an in progress grade and require that further work be completed in the clerkship at another time.
From time to time, students may wish to attend professional meetings. Permission must be obtained from the resident and/or faculty member and clerkship coordinator. Students may not take more than three days away from their clerkship responsibilities during any single clerkship. Again, it will be the student's responsibility for arranging coverage during the absence, and he/she is responsible for any make-up work.
Interviewing for residency positions should be accomplished during vacation and elective time. In the event arrangements cannot be made during those times, written verification of the date(s) made available by the interviewer must be submitted to the clerkship/course coordinator. At that time, a written contract between the coordinator and the student will be made, with a copy furnished for the student's file, regarding length of absence, any make up time, materials to be covered because of absence, and any other stipulations reuired by the clerkship/course coordinator.
POLICY PROHIBITING SEXUAL HARASSMENT
A. Sexual Harassment is Illegal Under Federal and State Law.
The University and Community College System of Nevada (UCCSN) is committed to providing a place of work and learning free of sexual harassment. Where sexual harassment is found to have occurred, the UCCSN will act to stop the harassment, to prevent its recurrence, and to discipline those responsible in accordance with the UCCSN Code or, in the case of classified employees, the Nevada Administrative Code. Sexual harassment is a form of discrimination; it is illegal.
No employee or student, either in the workplace or in the academic environment, should be subject to unwelcome verbal or physical conduct that is sexual in nature. Sexual harassment does not refer to occasional compliments of a socially acceptable nature. It refers to behavior of a sexual nature that is not welcome, that is personally offensive, and that interferes with performance.
It is expected that students, faculty and staff will treat one another with respect.
B. Policy Applicability and Sanctions.
All students, faculty, staff, and other members of the campus community are subject to this policy. Individuals who violate this policy are subject to discipline up to and including termination and/or expulsion, in accordance with the UCCSN Code or, in the case of classified employees, the Nevada Administrative Code. Other, lesser sanctions may be imposed, depending on the circumstances.
This policy is not intended to and does not infringe upon academic freedom in teaching or research as established in the UCCSN Code, Ch. 2.
C. Training.
All employees shall be given a copy of this policy and each institution’s Human Resources Office shall maintain documentation that each employee received the policy. New employees shall be given a copy of this policy at the time of hire and each institution’s Human Resources Office shall maintain documentation that each new employee received the policy.
Each institution shall include this policy and complaint procedure in its general catalog.
Each institution shall have an on-going sexual harassment training program for employees.
D. Sexual Harassment Defined.
Under this policy, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other visual, verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when:
1. submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment or academic status;
2. submission to or rejection of the conduct is used as a basis for academic or employment decisions or evaluations, or permission to participate in an activity; or
3. the conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual's academic or work performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment in which to work or learn.
Sexual harassment may take many forms—subtle and indirect, or blatant and overt. For example,
• It may occur between individuals of the opposite sex or of the same sex.
• It may occur between students, between peers and/or co-workers, or between individuals in an unequal power relationship.
• It may be aimed at coercing an individual to participate in an unwanted sexual relationship or it may have the effect of causing an individual to change behavior or work performance.
• It may consist of repeated actions or may even arise from a single incident if sufficiently severe.
• It may also rise to the level of a criminal offense, such as battery or sexual assault.
Determining what constitutes sexual harassment under this policy will be accomplished on a case by case basis and depends upon the specific facts and the context in which the conduct occurs. Some conduct may be inappropriate, unprofessional, and/or subject to disciplinary action, but would not fall under the definition of sexual harassment. The specific action taken, if any, in a particular instance depends on the nature and gravity of the conduct reported, and may include disciplinary processes as stated above.
Examples of unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that may constitute sexual harassment may, but do not necessarily, include, and are not limited to:
• physical assault; sexually explicit statements, comments, questions, jokes, innuendoes, anecdotes, or gestures;
• unnecessary touching, patting, hugging, or brushing against a person’s body or other inappropriate touching of an individual’s body;
• remarks of a sexual nature about a person’s clothing or body;
• use of electronic mail or computer dissemination of sexually oriented, sex-based communications;
• sexual advances, whether or not they involve physical touching;
• requests for sexual favors in exchange for actual or promised job or educational benefits, such as favorable reviews, salary increases, promotions, increased benefits, continued employment, grades, favorable assignments, letters of recommendation;
• displaying sexually suggestive objects, pictures, magazines, cartoons, or screen savers;
• inquiries, remarks, or discussions about an individual’s sexual experiences or activities and other written or oral references to sexual conduct.
Even one incident, if it is sufficiently serious, may constitute sexual harassment. One incident, however, does not usually constitute sexual harassment.
E. Procedure.
The Chancellor and each president shall designate no fewer than two administrators to receive complaints of alleged sexual harassment. The administrators designated to receive the complaints may include the following: (1) the Human Resources Officer at the institution; (2) the Affirmative Action Program Officer; or (3) any other officer designated by the president. If the Human Resources Officer or the Affirmative Action Program Officer or another officer designated by the president, is not the individual who initially receives the complaint of alleged sexual harassment, then the individual receiving the complaint must immediately forward the complaint to either the Human Resources Officer or the Affirmative Action Program Officer.
An individual filing a complaint of alleged sexual harassment shall have the opportunity to select an independent advisor for assistance, support, and advice and shall be notified of this opportunity by the Human Resources Officer or the Affirmative Action Program Officer, or by their designee. It shall be the choice of the individual filing the complaint to utilize or not utilize the independent advisor. The independent advisor may be brought into the process at any time at the request of the alleged victim. The means and manner by which an independent advisor shall be made available shall be determined by each institution or unit.
Supervisors’ Responsibilities: Every supervisor has responsibility to take reasonable steps intended to prevent acts of sexual harassment, which include, but are not limited to:
• Monitoring the work and school environment for signs that harassment may be occurring;
• Refraining from participation in, or encouragement of actions that could be perceived as harassment (verbal or otherwise);
• Stopping any observed acts that may be considered harassment, and taking appropriate steps to intervene, whether or not the involved individuals are within his/her line of supervision; and
• Taking immediate action to minimize or eliminate the work and/or school contact between the two individuals where there has been a complaint of harassment, pending investigation.
If a supervisor receives a complaint of alleged sexual harassment, or observes or becomes aware of conduct that may constitute sexual harassment, the supervisor must immediately contact one of the individuals identified above to forward the complaint, to discuss it and/or to report the action taken.
Failure to take the above action to prevent the occurrence of or stop known harassment may be grounds for disciplinary action.
Complaints of sexual harassment must be filed within one hundred eighty (180) calendar days after the discovery of the alleged act of sexual harassment with the supervisor, department chair, dean, or one of the administrators listed above and/or designated by the president to receive complaints of alleged sexual harassment. Complaints of prohibited conduct, including sexual harassment, filed with an institution’s administrative officer pursuant to UCCSN Code Chapter 6, Section 6.8.1, are not subject to this 180 day filing requirement.
1. Employees.
a) An employee who believes that he or she has been subjected to sexual harassment by anyone is encouraged—but it is neither necessary nor required—to promptly tell the person that the conduct is unwelcome and ask the person to stop the conduct. A person who receives such a request must immediately comply with it and must not retaliate against the employee for rejecting the conduct.
b) The employee may also choose to file a complaint with his or her immediate supervisor, who will in turn immediately contact one of the officials listed above.
c) If the employee feels uncomfortable about discussing the incident with the immediate supervisor, the employee should feel free to bypass the supervisor and file a complaint with one of the other listed officials or with any other supervisor.
d) After receiving any employee’s complaint of an incident of alleged sexual harassment, whether or not the complaint is in writing, the supervisor will immediately contact any of the individuals listed above to forward the complaint, to discuss it and/or to report the action taken. The supervisor has a responsibility to act even if the individuals involved are not supervised by that supervisor.
2. Students.
a) A student who believes that he or she has been subjected to sexual harassment by anyone is encouraged—but it is neither necessary nor required—to promptly tell the person that the conduct is unwelcome and ask the person to stop the conduct. A person who receives such a request must immediately comply with it and must not retaliate against the student for rejecting the conduct.
b) The student may also choose to file a complaint with his or her major department chair, who will in turn immediately contact one of the officials listed above.
c) If the student feels uncomfortable about discussing the incident with the department chair, the student should feel free to bypass the chair and file a complaint with one of the above officials or to any chair or dean, who will in turn immediately contact one of the officials listed above to forward the complaint, whether or not the complaint is in writing, to discuss it and/or to report the action taken. The chair or dean has a responsibility to act even if the individuals are not supervised by that chair or dean.
3. Non-Employees and Non-Students.
Individuals who are neither UCCSN employees nor UCCSN students and who believe they have been subjected to sexual harassment by a UCCSN employee during the employee’s work hours or by a UCCSN student on campus or at a UCCSN-sponsored event may utilize any of the complaint processes set forth above in this section.
4. Investigation and Resolution.
a) After receiving a complaint of the incident or behavior, an investigation by one of the above listed officials will be initiated to gather information about the incident. Each institution may set guidelines for the manner in which an investigation shall be conducted.
b) At the completion of the investigation, a recommendation will be made to the appropriate management regarding the resolution of the matter. The recommendation is advisory only.
c) After the recommendation has been made, a determination will be made by appropriate management regarding the resolution of the matter. If warranted, disciplinary action up to and including involuntary termination or expulsion will be taken. Any such disciplinary action shall be taken in accordance with UCCSN Code Chapter 6, or, in the case of classified employees, NAC Chapter 284. Other appropriate actions will be taken to correct problems, if any, caused by or contributing to the conduct. If proceedings are initiated under Chapter 6, the investigation conducted pursuant to this policy may be used as the Chapter 6 investigation. The administrative officer, in his or her discretion, may also supplement the sexual harassment investigation with additional investigation.
d) After the appropriate management has made a determination regarding the resolution of the matter, and depending on the circumstances, both parties may be informed of the resolution. Certain actions made confidential under UCCSN Code Chapters 5 and 6 or NAC Chapter 284 shall remain confidential.
F. Prompt Attention.
Complaints of sexual harassment are taken seriously and will be dealt with promptly. Where sexual harassment is found to have occurred, the UCCSN institution or unit where it occurred will act to stop the harassment, to prevent its recurrence, and to discipline those responsible.
G. Confidentiality.
The UCCSN recognizes that confidentiality is important. However, confidentiality cannot be guaranteed. The administrators, faculty or staff responsible for implementing this policy will respect the privacy of individuals reporting or accused of sexual harassment to the extent reasonably possible and will maintain confidentiality to the extent possible. Examples of situations where confidentiality cannot be maintained include, but are not limited to, necessary disclosures during an investigation, circumstances where the UCCSN is required by law to disclose information (such as in response to legal process), or when an individual is in harm’s way.
Retaliation
Retaliation against an individual who in good faith complains of alleged sexual harassment or provides information in an investigation about behavior that may violate this policy is against the law, will not be tolerated, and may be grounds for discipline. Retaliation in violation of this policy may result in discipline up to and including termination and/or expulsion. Any employee or student bringing a sexual harassment complaint or assisting in the investigation of such a complaint will not be adversely affected in terms and conditions of employment and/or academic standing, nor discriminated against, terminated, or expelled because of the complaint. Intentionally providing false information is also grounds for discipline.
“Retaliation” may include, but is not limited to, such conduct as:
• the denial of adequate personnel to perform duties;
• frequent replacement of members of the staff;
• frequent and undesirable changes in the location of an office;
• the refusal to assign meaningful work;
• unwarranted disciplinary action;
• unfair work performance evaluations;
• a reduction in pay;
• the denial of a promotion;
• a dismissal;
• a transfer;
• frequent changes in working hours or workdays;
• an unfair grade;
• an unfavorable reference letter.
H. Relationship to Freedom of Expression.
The UCCSN is committed to the principles of free inquiry and free expression. Vigorous discussion and debate are fundamental rights and this policy is not intended to stifle teaching methods or freedom of expression. Sexual harassment, however, is neither legally protected expression nor the proper exercise of academic freedom; it compromises the integrity of institutions, the tradition of intellectual freedom and the trust placed in the institutions by their members.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS REQUIREMENTS
The following stated functions, known as the University of Nevada School of Medicine’s Essential Functions Requirements for Admission, Promotion, Continuation and Graduation, are determined to be essential for receiving the M.D. degree at the University of Nevada School of Medicine.
The University of Nevada School of Medicine is committed to the mission of providing competent, caring physicians through quality undergraduate and post-graduate medical education. The School of Medicine thereby recognizes the M.D. degree as a broad, undifferentiated degree requiring the acquisition of general knowledge and basic skills in all fields of medicine. The education of a physician requires the assimilation of knowledge and the acquisition of highly specialized skills. It also includes the development of the discipline of life-long learning and critical judgment in preparation for independent and appropriate decisions required in medical practice.
To meet our stated mission, the University of Nevada School of Medicine retains the freedom and ultimate responsibility for the selection of students, the design, implementation, evaluation of its curriculum, evaluation of students, and the final determination of granting a medical degree. Admissions, promotion, continuation, and graduation decisions are based on academic factors which include both cognitive and non-cognitive elements. These serve to ensure that the candidate can complete the essential functions requirements of the academic program required for graduation.
The University of Nevada School of Medicine is committed to the principle of equal opportunity and as such deplores all forms of discrimination. As part of this policy, the University of Nevada School of Medicine encourages applications from people of all color, race, creeds, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability, both visible and invisible.
During the admissions process, qualified candidates* with disabilities will be considered without regard to their ability status by the Admissions Committee in accordance with the Essential Functions Requirements of the School of Medicine. Appropriate accommodations to help the candidate successfully meet the requirements for graduation from the School of Medicine must be planned and discussed with the appropriate committees prior to matriculation. Disabilities occurring after matriculation will be dealt with on an individual basis by the Student Development Committee in accordance with the Essential Functions Requirements to best meet the needs of the candidate and the school.
The faculty has established essential functions criteria to ensure careful and individual attention to the needs of each candidate and to meet the School of Medicine’s responsibility to society of providing competent caring physicians. Reasonable technical accommodations can be made to facilitate the progress of the disabled candidate in areas where such accommodations do not significantly interfere with the essential functions requirements of the medical school or significantly affect the rights of other students. A candidate, however, should be able to perform in a reasonably independent manner.
Central to the schools mission, it is recognized that all candidates for the M.D. degree must demonstrate intellectual, conceptual, integrative and quantitative abilities. Candidates must also demonstrate skills in observation, communication and motor functions, as well as mature behavioral and social attributes.
All accepted candidates will be required to sign that they have read and understood their responsibility of meeting the essential functions as outlined. This signed form becomes a part of the permanent record of all matriculating candidates.
Observational Skills: Candidates must be able to learn a defined level of information. This information will be presented in a variety of formats including, but not limited to, lectures and demonstrations in the basic sciences, physiologic and pharmacologic demonstrations with animals and on computers, observations of microbiologic cultures, microscopic studies of microorganisms, and both microscopic and
gross studies of human tissues in normal and pathologic states. Beyond the observational skills
necessary to acquire information in the basic sciences, the candidate must possess certain observational
skills in assessing the patient. The candidate must be able to observe a patient accurately from a
distance and close at hand, as well as observe written and graphic information (such as EKGs and x-rays) regarding the patient. Observing the patient includes the use of visual, auditory and somatic sensation, and is enhanced by the functional use of other sensory modalities.
If for any reason the candidate’s ability to observe or acquire information through the above mentioned sensory modalities is inhibited, the candidate must demonstrate the ability to obtain the acquired information, whether basic science or patient related, in an alternative fashion.
Communication Skills: The candidate must be able to communicate effectively and sensitively using both oral and written communication skills with patients, their families, and with all members of the health care team using traditional or non-traditional means. The candidate must be able to create and comprehend written materials such as medical records, laboratory reports, and pharmacological prescriptions. The candidate must possess adequate interpersonal skills, empathy toward others, and a willingness to interact cooperatively in all professional environments.
Motor Skills: The candidate must have sufficient motor skills to carry out all necessary procedures involved in the learning of the basic and clinical sciences, as well as those required in the hospital and clinical environment. These include, but are not limited to, physical examinations, surgical, clinical laboratory, and other technical procedures required for diagnosis and treatment. The candidate must possess the motor skills necessary to perform palpation, percussion, auscultation, and other diagnostic maneuvers to complete basic and specialized portions of the physical examination of a patient. The candidate is expected to execute movement and assume reasonable bodily postures required to provide general diagnosis and treatment of patients including emergency medical care.
The candidate who cannot perform these activities independently should be able, at least, to understand and direct the methodology involved in such cases.
Intellectual/Conceptual Abilities: The candidate must have sufficient cognitive capabilities to assimilate the technically detailed and complex information presented in formal lectures, small group discussions, individual teaching sessions, and clinical settings. The candidate must be able to measure, calculate, reason, analyze, recall and synthesize information across various modalities. In addition, the candidate should be able to form and test hypotheses, comprehend three-dimensional relationships and understand spatial relationships of structure. Problem solving, the critical and essential skill demanded of physicians, requires all of these intellectual abilities. These problem-solving skills must be performed in a timely fashion.
Behavioral and Social Attributes: The candidate must possess the demeanor and maturity required for full utilization of intellectual abilities. In addition the candidate must exercise good judgment in diagnosis and treatment of patients, interaction with faculty, colleagues, staff, and the population in general. Required skills include the ability to function in stressful and demanding environments, and demonstration of the flexibility to cope with changing situations and the ambiguity inherent in medical problem solving.
The candidate must consistently demonstrate compassion, honesty, integrity, concern, and respect for self and others. In addition to possessing an intrinsic desire for excellence, the candidate must possess tolerance for and acceptance of difference, and show interest and motivation to become an effective physician.
Students are expected to demonstrate appropriate behavior at all times in their personal and professional life. Failure to do so can result in dismissal. Examples of inappropriate behavior include but are not limited to substance abuse, sexual harassment, violent behavior, and illegal activities.
Candidates must understand and accept their roles as health care providers within their communities.
The School of Medicine retains the right to review and approve or decline any or all requests for accommodation. If you have a disability that necessitates accommodation to meet the School of Medicines Essential Functions, then you must provide, at your own expense, appropriate documentation
from a qualified professional describing the disability and setting forth any reasonable accommodations necessary to ensure that you are able to meet the essential functions.
*Within the context of this form, the term candidate refers to both applicants to the School of Medicine and matriculated students.
ALCOHOL AND DRUG FREE ENVIRONMENT
The University of Nevada School of Medicine complies with the Omibus Anti Drug Abuse Act of 1988 (the “Drug Fee Workplace” Act) and the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act as amended in 1989 and as directed by the University of Nevada Reno administration.
No alcoholic beverages will be served on the UNSOM campus. Reimbursement with school money will not be approved for the purchase of any alcoholic beverages for functions and/or activities either on or off –site.
STUDENT HEALTH
The confidentiality and security of student medical treatment are of primary importance to the School of Medicine. All medical treatment and records are strictly confidential and are maintained by the Student Health Center.
If you are injured while on campus, partial insurance coverage is provided by the university. Please contact the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs.
The University of Nevada School of Medicine has instituted the following health policies for the benefit of students.
Health, Disability and Life Insurance (Policy #SA-HO1-93)
All medical students are required to enroll in the School of Medicine medical, disability and life insurance policy. Students requesting a medical insurance waiver must apply through and be approved by the Student Health Committee and be able to demonstrate comparable coverage. Disability and life insurance coverage cannot be waived. All students enrolled in the M.D./Ph.D. program are required to be covered by the UNSOM policy unless they can show proof of a comparable medical insurance policy. The medical insurance policy provides comprehensive pharmacy coverage. There is an $10.00 co-payment on generic drugs and a $20.00 co-payment on brand name drugs. Please refer to the policy for information regarding approved providers.
As an institution responsible for educating future physicians, one of the goals of the University of Nevada School of Medicine is to encourage and provide access to health care for our medical students.
The student health insurance program is sponsored by USI Administrators. The designated primary providers of health care for students enrolled in the program are the Student Health Center (SHC) in Reno and the School of Medicine Clinic in Las Vegas. Benefits for students who utilize these facilities as primary providers include no deductible and 100% payment of eligible claims. Medical services not available at either SHC or UNSOM Clinic but obtained elsewhere will be reimbursed at 80% and subject to a $200 deductible.
Students who choose NOT to utilize either the SHC or the UNSOM Las Vegas Clinic will be responsible for a $200.00 deductible and 60% payment of most claims. Students NOT utilizing either facility will be responsible for a 40% co-payment.
Please contact the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs for detailed information.
Criteria for Insurance Waiver:
1. Students must provide a copy of their insurance policy/booklet and proof that they are covered by a group plan through a spouse, parents, employer or the military. Individual insurance is not acceptable. Students are required to show proof of coverage annually while enrolled in the School of Medicine
2. The policy must provide at least $1 million in lifetime benefits per insured.
3. The policy must limit out of pocket expenditures for covered expenses.
4. Prescription drugs must be covered.
5. Maternity care much be covered.
6. The policy must have benefits comparable to the School of Medicine policy on per illness or surgical coverage.
7. Counseling and psychological services must be covered.
8. Complete coverage must be provided for all fluid exposures in a clinical setting
The School of Medicine insurance policy premium is paid as a portion of the student fee at the beginning of the Fall and Spring semesters, and allows access to outpatient and inpatient services. Coverage for spouses and children is optional and requires additional payment. Medical students must notify the Admissions and Student Affairs office immediately of any change in dependent coverage.
Hospitalization: In case of necessary hospitalization, coverage is provided with limits as stipulated in the insurance policy purchased at the time of registration. Students are responsible for charges incurred above the limits of the insurance policy.
Mental Health Services: Mental health services are an important part of health care. Assistance with obtaining mental health services can be obtained through the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs. The use of the counseling center on the University campus as well as referrals to medical school or community psychologists and psychiatrists are important adjuncts to this care. Our main goal is to ensure that medical students remain healthy.
Student Counseling: All medical students have personal problems from time to time, many of which are solved by students on their own or with the help of family and friends. When these resources are not available or have not worked, students are encouraged to contact faculty members for discussion. There are also a variety of professional services available to students, which are strictly confidential. These include:
• Office of Admissions and Student Affairs - 775-784 6063
• Downing Counseling Clinic
College of Education
University of Nevada, Reno
Room 3007 – 775-784-1596
• Counseling Center on Campus
Thompson Student Services
775-784-4678
• Psychological Services Center - 775-784 6668
Room 206, Mack Social Science Building
• Student Health Center - 775-784 6598
Redfield Building (north of main UNR campus, part of Medical School)
• Student Assistance Committee
Contact one of the following class representatives:
Class of 2005 Class of 2006 Class of 2007
Mike Benassi Reed Dopf Than Charter
Aimee Gould Heather Finney Jennifer Daily
Naya Mahaum Alison Ganog Jeremy Gonda
Jacob Skinner Chris Quitadamo Angela Weiner
There are also a number of community psychologists, psychiatrists and counselors who are willing to help students deal with their problems. Such help may be arranged by referral through the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs. These services are strictly confidential. Please refer to the insurance plans benefits handbook for information regarding coverage.
HIPAA Training
All medical students are required to complete training for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The training, which addresses the School’s specific privacy policies and procedures, will be held quarterly throughout the year. In addition, you may be asked to complete HIPAA training at individual clinical sites, including the hospitals with which the School of Medicine partners.
Immunizations (Policy # SA-HO2-93)
Students entering the University of Nevada system are required to provide proof of immunization prior to registration. A University of Nevada School of Medicine "immunization passport" must be completed and approved by the UNR Student Health Center. Each student will have an immunization file established at the Student Health Center. If an immunization has been received off-campus, proof must be provided to the Student Health Center so the immunization passport can be certified. Students should carry the passport with them at all times. This is especially important when working in clinical settings. Completion of all the health requirements will be documented in students' files. Proof of immunity must be documented by record of immunization or by serological evidence of immunity.
1. All medical students are required to obtain the following immunizations:
• Varicella titer
• Measles, mumps & rubella (students born in 1957 or later must receive two doses of MMR)
• Diphtheria/tetanus (must show evidence of this immunization within the past 10 years)
• Hepatitis B (series of three)
• PPD (two step)
2. Medical students are required to comply with the standard immunization requirements, and, because of potential exposure to blood and body fluids, must also be immunized against Hepatitis B. Documentation of (a) receiving three Hepatitis B vaccines (b) having started the Hepatitis B vaccine series or serological proof of immunity to Hepatitis B will be required at the time of fall, first year registration. (The Student Health Center offers the Hepatitis B vaccine to medical students during freshmen orientation. The fee is $120.00 for the service.)
3. Medical students must have a skin test for tuberculosis within one year of first year enrollment. Skin tests for tuberculosis will be required annually during medical school enrollment and are available at the Student Health Center in Reno and the UNSOM Clinic in Las Vegas. For those students who have not had a PPD test before, a 2-step test will be done.
4. Students are financially responsible for obtaining these immunizations and supplying written documentation of compliance to the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs.
5. Information regarding costs and immunization sites is available at the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs.
6. University of Nevada School of Medicine immunization cards will be issued verifying immunization status and will be required for continued enrollment.
Medical Leave of Absence (Policy #SA-HO3-93)
See Academic Standards, Leave of Absence, for further information.
Exposure to Infectious and Environmental Hazards (Policy #SA-HO4-93)
You, as a medical student, and later as a physician, will be exposed to patients with all varieties of infectious disease. It is your responsibility to know the mode of transmission and prevention of these diseases. You will be expected to avoid physical contact with all bodily fluids and take appropriate preventive measures to protect yourself from patients with infectious disease. Also, you will be expected to protect your patients from exposure to you when you have a contagious disease.
All medical students will be educated and trained to prevent or reduce exposure to blood borne pathogens. Safety of medical students in the pursuit of their clinical training is of the utmost importance. Because of their inexperience, students have traditionally represented a large group reporting exposures to blood in hospital and clinical settings. For this reason, procedures have been developed to inform students of potential risk and teach them techniques and procedures designed to decrease or avoid exposure. In addition, follow-up, diagnostic and treatment regimens have been implemented to deal with exposures after they occur.
All exposure episodes must be reported to the Student Health Center. Appropriate follow-up with the student including the necessity for review of laboratory evaluation will be done. Written and verbal reports should come from the students. Follow-up laboratory evaluation will be needed for HIV, Hepatitis or other infectious diseases. Students desiring counseling will be referred to the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs. All medical information received on students including their laboratory evaluations will be held confidential and remain separate from student files.
Education: Students are introduced to the concept of infection control and work-related exposure during their first year of medical school. This education will be expanded and updated annually throughout medical school. Students must attend sessions each year and be certified in order to continue patient care activities. Certification will be documented on the University of Nevada School of Medicine immunization card.
Students are expected to understand and comply with the following procedures:
1. Universal precautions
2. Needle/sharp safety
3. Use of protective equipment
4. Isolation guidelines
An information brochure is available in the Admissions and Student Affairs Office and includes follow-up procedures for needle sticks or splashes including contact people at each clinical site, identification of key personnel at the school, and the latest recommendations for medical follow-up including treatment, if necessary. Information will be updated yearly to include new data on pathogens, medical follow-up, protective gear and procedure safety. An ongoing evaluation will provide data on ways to improve attainment of educational goals as well as target areas that may need improved safety training.
Policy for Blood Borne Pathogen Exposures: The University of Nevada, Reno Student Health Center has been designated as the facility to maintain records of all medical student exposures, including but not
limited to needle sticks, body fluid splashes, etc. This policy outlines the protocol to be followed in maintaining documentation.
1. At the time of exposure, an exposure packet should be completed. If the exposure occurs at a facility other than the Student Health Center, the appropriate paperwork should be completed and forwarded to the Student Health Center.
2. Initial laboratory work should be obtained immediately after the exposure. These studies can be performed at the Student Health Center or another facility if necessary. Copies of the laboratory studies and results must be sent to the Student Health Center.
3. Follow up laboratory studies should be done at six weeks and six months following the exposure. Copies of these tests should also be forwarded to the Student Health Center.
4. The Student Health Center will maintain exposure information in a confidential file that is separate from the medical record. These exposure files will be kept in a locked cabinet with access limited to the Medical Director or designated practitioner.
5. For students who have failed to send the proper documentation of laboratory or other follow up, reminder cards will be sent. If, after two attempts, there is no response to the reminder cards, a certified letter will be sent reminding the student to send documentation of follow up. If there is no response to the certified letter, no further attempts will be made. At this point, the student becomes responsible for further care.
NOTE: Full coverage of fluid exposures will be provided by medical insurance program only when the initial visit is made within three months of the fluid exposure.
Fluid Exposure Protocol for Las Vegas Campus
If you have a routine* exposure to blood or blood tinged body fluids by needlestick, laceration or by mucus membrane contact:
1. You need to report it immediately to your attending or resident and the Office of Student Affairs.
2. Contact Marlene Riley, UMC Employee Health, 383-2673.
3. Contact Salena Brocco at the UNSOM Clinic on Firemesa for an appointment for follow up treatment.
NOTE: Students are not employees of UNR and you need to show your health insurance card when you are treated for this since it will not be paid for by worker’s compensation.
Medical Treatment: Go to University of Nevada School of Medicine Clinic for follow up blood work.
This must be done within THREE days of the exposure.
1. Fill out the UNSOM incident form
2. See an M.D. for evaluation
3. Have blood drawn for Hepatitis B antibody and HIV
4. Be sure to take your immunization records with you in case you need tetanus, etc.
If you have a priority* exposure to blood or blood-tinged body fluids:
1. Notify your attending resident and the Office of Student Affairs immediately.
2. Notify Marlene Riley, UMC Employee Health, 383-2673.
3. Priority fluid exposures will be treated at the UMC Emergency Room.
Follow up Care: It is your responsibility to follow-up on your own lab work. Documentation is held for two weeks. You can obtain a copy from University of Nevada School of Medicine Clinic. After two weeks, the documentation will be stored in the medical records department at Mountain View Medical Center Clinic. If lab work is completed at a facility other than the Student Health Center (Reno) or the University of Nevada School of Medicine Clinic (Las Vegas), please send copy of lab results to Jan (Reno) or Salena (Las Vegas).
If you have been immunized, and are Hepatitis B antibody negative (by lab test) and, you are exposed to a Hepatitis B negative patient, you just need a booster of Hepatitis B vaccine. If you are exposed to a Hepatitis B positive patient, you should get HBIG and Hepatitis B vaccine boosters.
As mandated by OSHA, all forms and reports will be kept in a confidential medical file and will be maintained separately from your student file. These files are kept at Mountain View Medical Center Clinic in Las Vegas.
*Routine Exposure: Does NOT require immediate medical attention and/or patient is known to be HIV NEGATIVE.
Priority Exposure: DOES require immediate medical attention and/or patient is known to be HIV POSITIVE.
To ensure hospitals that education and training have already been completed, each student's immunization card will be initialed denoting completion of the mandatory blood borne pathogen safety classes prior to clinical rotations.
NOTE: ALL LAB WORK IS CONFIDENTIAL.
Primary Care Providers for medical students
Reno:
Student Health Center - (775) 784-6598 - is a medical students’ primary care provider in Reno. All University of Nevada, Reno, TMCC and WNCC students, graduate students, medical students and spouses of registered students are eligible for care.
The Student Health Center is an outpatient facility located north of the University of Nevada campus directly across the street from the School of Medicine. The entrance is in the Redfield Building, next to Family Medicine (Brigham Building). The center is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, throughout the school year except for University legal holidays. It is closed from 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch. The center is open during the Christmas and spring breaks as well as throughout the summer. Check-in hours are from 8:00-11:00 a.m. and 1:00-4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and patients are seen in the order of their arrival. Emergencies are seen immediately. The clinic offers evening hours from 5:30-8:00 p.m., two days per week, by appointment only. (Walk-in hours are an approximation)
Full service outpatient medical care is provided and includes: women's health, treatment for acute illness or injury, pharmacy services, x-ray and laboratory tests, sports medicine, nutritional and colposcopy, immunizations and allergy shots. Part-time consultants are available for weekly dermatology and mental health clinics. Physicians from the Department of Family and Community Medicine provide after-hours, weekend and holiday phone coverage. Contacting the on-call physician during the hours of closure of the Student Health Center will help facilitate care. If medical care is necessary after regularly scheduled hours, then this care is at the student's expense.
As part of a medical student’s health care package, the Student Health Center provides unlimited office visits, some medications, and laboratory tests for the treatment of acute illness and injury. Additional fees
may be charged for other medications, x-rays and tests. Additionally, students requiring a physical for personal needs may have those completed at a reduced rate.
The Student Health Center's primary objective is to keep students healthy so they can participate to their fullest capability in the academic program. If there are any questions or concerns regarding health care provided, contact the Medical Director of the Student Health Center.
UNR Campus Pharmacy – 775-784-6799
Students may also fill prescriptions at pharmacies in Sav On Drug Stores and Smiths Grocery Stores.
The Campus Pharmacy is the medical students’ primary provider pharmacy in Reno. The pharmacy is
located next to the Student Health Center and directly across the street from the medical school. It is
open Monday-Friday from 8 to 5 and they are closed from 12 to 1:30 p.m. for lunch.
Las Vegas:
University of Nevada School of Medicine Las Vegas Clinic - 702-255-9025 - is a medical students’ primary care provider in Las Vegas. The UNSOM Clinic is a multi-specialty clinic, offering general surgery, ENT, audiology and family practice services to its patients. There is also a clinical nutritionist (Ph.D.) on the staff.
The UNSOM Clinic is located at 2410 Fire Mesa, Suite 180, on Smoke Ranch between Buffalo and Tenaja. It is open for appointments only from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday through Friday. To schedule an appointment, call 702-255-9025.
Campus Pharmacy II is the medical student’s PRIMARY PROVIDER PHARMACY while in Las Vegas. The pharmacy is located at 4000 E. Charleston Blvd., Suite B13. It is open Monday-Friday from 8-5; it is closed for lunch from 12:30-1:30 p.m. The pharmacy is also closed on weekends and holidays. The pharmacy telephone number is 702-968-4038. Students may also fill prescriptions at any Sav On and Smith’s stores.
Student Assistance Committee (UNSOM Policy #SA-H05-93)
A variety of problems, such as school adjustment, emotional problems, or alcohol and other drug use, may impair a medical student's performance or set the stage for future impairment in his or her life as a physician. Early detection and assistance benefits the student and reduces risk to professional career. For this reason, the School of Medicine recognizes and supports the Student Assistance Committee (SAC). In recognition of the sensitive nature and importance of the work done by the Student Assistance
Committee, the School of Medicine will help protect the confidential nature of the committee's work and records.
Objective:
1. Identify medical students who have self identified or problems identified by others with personal/family, problems adapting to medical school pursuits or substance abuse. The committee will work to identify these problems before they have begun to impair the student's performance in medicine.
2. Intervene on behalf of and assist medical students to get professional evaluation and treatment for identified problems.
3. Support and monitor students who are undergoing treatment.
4. Advocate for students. This advocacy, with the student's permission, will be with the SOM, residency committees, licensing boards, family members, etc., who may need to know about the student's status at the student's request. Students wishing to contact the Student Assistance Committee should contact one of the student representatives.
Structure:
1. Each class will elect two (2) students. In the first year class, these elections will take place in the second half of the year. Each year each class will decide whether to reelect the same or a new representative to the committee.
2. A faculty advisor will be appointed by the Dean upon recommendation of the Student Development Committee and will be responsible for the functioning of this committee. This individual will not be a departmental chair or a part of administration and will have experience with physician impairment.
3. The committee will work with the Nevada State Medical Association (NSMA) Physician Assistance Committee (PAC). The PAC will assign sponsoring members to attend SAC meetings, assist with investigations of problems, intervene with students, monitor recovery, and advocate for students.
4. The committee may communicate with other SACs in medical schools in the western region and throughout the United States. Through shared information and experience, the SAC will modify its function, structure, and operations as needed.
Operations:
The SAC, with direct help from the PAC, will:
1. Accept referrals from all sources including self, other students, faculty, family members, the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs and the Student Development Committee.
2. Maintain confidentiality
a. Encourage students with personal problems to be honest in their own reporting and appropriate self-disclosure. When this is done, the SAC and PAC will advocate for the student whenever needed.
b. The PAC will make any reports needed for the SAC. No reporting will be done without discussion and consensus from SAC. Reports to the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs, the Board of Medical Examiners, or other appropriate agencies will only occur when the SAC and PAC are convinced that patient care will be in jeopardy if the problem is not addressed immediately. All reporting must be done in accordance with the laws of the State of Nevada.
3. Investigate student impairment in cooperation with members of the PAC. They must confidentially obtain information from other students, friends, family members, faculty, and the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs. The Office of Admissions and Student Affairs, recognizing that the SAC is
operating under the strict rules of physician-patient privilege followed by the PAC, will share any information with the SAC/PAC which may help identify personal problems.
4. Intervene with any student who appears to have a personal problem. Each intervention may be conducted by two or more members of the PAC and SAC. The objective of the intervention may get the student into a professional evaluation. The findings from this evaluation will remain confidential within the SAC and PAC, unless the student refuses or fails to follow the recommendations of the evaluating center.
If treatment is recommended, the SAC/PAC will request a leave of absence for the student from the
UNSOM. This request will be granted by the UNSOM without question, and the student will be reinstated consistent with the policy for medical leave of absence.
5. Monitor students following treatment. If an addiction program is identified, a monitoring contract similar to that used by the PAC will be established. The length of the contract will be three (3) to five (5) years or the time recommended by the treating entity, whichever is greater. If time on the contract
still remains when the student graduates from the UNSOM, it is the student's responsibility, in cooperation with SAC/PAC, to determine appropriate disposition of the contract.
6. Train and supervise SAC members in assessment, intervention, and monitoring skills.
7. Advocate for each student who is working a program of recovery.
