Post-Hospitalization

When the University is aware that a student has been hospitalized for at least two nights, the Vice President for Student Affairs, or a designee, will issue follow-up requirements, in writing, for the ability to return to living on campus. These requirements are designed to support student success living on campus and coordinating access to health services.

Many students find it most helpful to email their instructors directly. A few things to include in that communication are:

• Your name and the specific course you are enrolled in

• The classes you have missed or anticipate missing

• The general reason you are missing  class (*Note: You are not required to submit any medical documentation to instructors as that is protected health information)

• Your request for flexibility or the option to make up work

In addition to the email you send, the CARE Team can also notify your professors of any unanticipated absences. These emails do not explain your circumstances nor do they excuse you from any missed classes/ completing any work, but they will alert your professors that you will be in touch with them when you are able.

Please note, that if the CARE Team leans of your hospitalization and anticipates you will be gone for two nights or more, we will automatically send an email to your professors, unless instructed by you not to.

Hospitalizations can often lead to new diagnosis or a greater awareness of a previous diagnosis. Student Accessibility Services can help students navigate these diagnoses that impact their ability to access education.

Fill out the self-disclosure form to begin the process of requesting academic accommodations for a diagnosed condition (e.g., mental health condition, medical condition, neurodivergence, or any disability).

Some students find it helpful to drop one or more courses or withdrawal completely for the semester to give them more time to heal after a hospitalization.

It is important to understand the University attendance policy. Some students find that they have missed too many classes while in the hospital, or in combination with what they missed before going into the hospital, to continue with the semester. Students should talk with their academic advisor(s) and the CARE Team to decide next steps.

Here are some points to consider when determining to drop a class or withdrawal for the semester:

• Has the withdrawal deadlines passed? – Refer to Registration Information found here in the Academic Policies for additional details.

• You want to take the semester off – If the withdrawal deadline has passed, review the medical withdrawal policy.

• Your financial aid – Reach out to the Office of Financial Aid to inquire how withdrawing from a class or the entire semester could impact your aid.

• Your academic progress – It might be helpful to chat through any impact to your academic progress with your academic advisor.

The CARE Team has a member dedicated to supporting students after a hospitalization and during their transition back to campus. Students, and/or their families can reach out to the CARE Team by email, care@depauw.edu, before or after a hospitalization to connect.

Working withe the CARE Team ensures:

• Guidance through the university system before and/or after a hospitalization

• Support following the discharge plan from the hospital

• Recommendations for how to reintegrate into academics

• Care and compassion for the health challenges a student has faced