Personal Health Kit

Whether you’re living on-campus or off-campus, it’s a good idea to have a personal health kit filled with things you might need in case you’re not feeling well. Pack a kit before your first semester — then check it at the beginning of each semester — and you’ll save time and money if you get sick later.

What to Pack in Your Personal Health Kit

In this section:

Information

  • A copy of your health insurance card (either an original ID card, a copy of the card or a photo stored on your smartphone)
  • An understanding of your health insurance coverage when used in Western New York, including the preferred laboratory service and preferred pharmacy
  • Health insurance contact information, in case you have questions related to your coverage
  • Names and phone numbers of the health care providers actively involved in your care
  • Copies of pertinent medical records (immunizations, notes/labs related to illnesses or chronic conditions)

Supplies

  • Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain, fevers
  • Allergy medication as needed
  • Antacids and antidiarrheals
  • Bandages (i.e. Band Aids)
  • Cool mist humidifier for winter months
  • Digital thermometer
  • Extra contact lens solution
  • Eyeglasses (in case of problem with contacts or eye infection)
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Heating pad or instant hot packs
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Portable ice packs for injuries
  • Sunscreen/sunblock
  • Topical antibiotic ointment
Pack a Bag In Case You Get Sick

You may want to pack a bag ahead of time in case you get sick. In addition to over-the-counter pain reliever, fever reducer, and a thermometer, you may want to include an inexpensive pulse oximeter, juice, water, sports drink and healthy, non-perishable snacks.

Prescriptions

Make sure you have an adequate supply of all prescriptions, including asthma rescue inhalers, EpiPen®, insulin, nebulizer medicine and nebulizers. Also make sure that they have not expired and you bring an ample supply to campus.

If You Take Prescription Medication

If you live outside of Western New York — and you use medications on a recurring basis — please talk to your current prescriber about how you can get those medications refilled while you are at UB.

  • Ask your health care provider if he or she is willing to electronically prescribe to a pharmacy in Western New York, and what follow-up the provider will require.
  • If you would rather transfer your care to a health care provider in Western New York (and switch to a local pharmacy), we encourage you to make an appointment with Health Services before your prescription expires, and see how we can help you.
Find a pharmacy
Secure Your Prescriptions and Medical Devices

All prescription medications and personal medical devices should be secured in a safe place. Consider a lock box or safe for your room, and keep the location a secret.