Physical examinations

Physical examinations form an essential part of the FSHS health promotion activities. A physical examination is a personal check-up of a student conducted by a nurse, similar to check-ups conducted in working life upon entry to a company. The purpose is to comprehensively assess the student’s health status, to discuss issues hazardous to health and issues conductive to good health, and also to distribute health-related information. The aim is also to make the student feel more responsible for his or her health and to provide him or her support in a new situation at the beginning of student life. If necessary, the student is referred to further examinations and medical care.

All first-year students are invited to a free physical examination. During the first or second year, students are also invited to a free dental and oral examination; however, any treatment possibly ensuing is subject to charge.

Vaccinations

During their visiting hours, nurses give booster vaccinations and provide advice and instructions concerning vaccinations. Annual influenza vaccinations are given by nurses as well. Nurses also provide information on matters related to vaccinations for purposes of travel or studying abroad. It is wise to check in advance what the arrangements are at the health center for providing such vaccinations.

• Standard vaccinations (Polio, Tetanus-diphteria, MPR) are free of charge.
• An influenza vaccination is free of charge for those who belong to a risk group (as recommended by the National Institute for Health and Welfare).
• The B-hepatitus vaccination is free of charge on the bases given in the vaccination program (National Institute for Health and Welfare).
• Other vaccinations are payable by the student.

Promoting health in the environment where studies take place

The FSHS does its part in monitoring the healthfulness and safety of the environment in which studies take place. However, practical cooperation for promoting health in the study environment is mostly local. All health centers participate in student information sessions, and most health centers also send their personnel to help in tutor training. Every student is able to do his or her share and make room for elements that promote health and wellbeing.