Frequently Asked Questions

When can a student visit the Health Center?

The Health Center is open 24/7 when school is in session. Students should make every effort to visit the Health Center during a free period so as not to miss class, school meeting, assembly or other required activity. In an emergency, of course, a student may visit the Health Center any time.

Is a student ever required to stay in the Health Center?

A student with a fever, an illness that would significantly impair the student's ability to function in class or a contagious illness such as chicken pox, are examples of conditions that would prompt the Health Center staff to require the student to be admitted to the Health Center. A student taking narcotic medication for pain is also required to stay at the Health Center.

What happens if a student gets sick in the middle of the night?

A student who becomes ill at night must notify the faculty member or corridor monitor on duty. That responsible person will arrange to escort the student to the Health Center.

Will the Health Center automatically call me if my child is sick and needs treatment?

Students are asked to keep their parents updated on all health issues. Parents are always called if a student is admitted to the Health Center or if he or she needs treatment in the emergency room. We encourage parents to call any time they have questions or concerns about student health issues.

What should I do if my child is sick at home?

The Health Center should be notified of any student sick at home. If your child has a fever they should remain at home until completely well. The Dean's Office should also be notified, so appropriate faculty are kept informed.

What should I do if my child's physician recommends medication and/or other treatment, at school?

We are happy to coordinate care with your child's physician. Written orders from the physician are needed in order for any treatment and/or medication to be administered through the Health Center. Have the doctor fill out a medication authorization form and FAX it to the Health Center at 860-945-7766. The form can be printed from the menu at right.

What do I do if my child is sick or injured and cannot participate in regular activities?

When a student's physician limits participation in sports or other activities, a written doctorss note must be presented to the Health Center. Clearance to return to full activity must be in writing, as well.

My child wants to play sports, but the Health Center won't give clearance. Can my own doctor give clearance?

Please keep in mind that the Health Center staff puts your child's health and well-being above all else. Years of experience have taught us that an ill or injured student is at a much higher risk for severe injury if allowed to participate in sports. It is our hope that parents will support our decisions concerning sports participation. We would encourage your child's physician to call us. If your child is examined by a physician and clearance is given, it must be provided in writing.

How can a student arrange to see a doctor or dentist off campus?

The Health Center staff will assist the student in making any appointments needed. We will also arrange for transportation to and from the appointment if needed. There is a transportation fee.

Can a student get a referral to talk to a counselor or therapist?

A student can initiate this action by going directly to the counseling office or discussing it with Health Center personnel, the advisor, the class dean or other faculty member.

Can a student get a referral to talk to a nutritionist?

A nutritionist is on campus twice a month. Her schedule is kept in the Health Center. Students may see the nutritionist at their family's expense; private payment arrangements must be made between you and the nutritionist when your child makes his or her first appointment.

Is a student permitted to keep medication in his/her room?

No, not without specific permission from Mrs. Keys. Students must report all medications to the Health Center staff. Mrs. Keys will allow certain medications to be kept in a student's room. Contact the Health Center for specific details related to you. Under no conditions will students be allowed to have controlled or psychotropic medications in their rooms.

What does a student need to do if traveling abroad on a school-sponsored trip?

Both St. Mary's and Waterbury Hospital have travel clinics. They can provide up-to-date information concerning foreign travel and immunization/medication recommendations. A student can arrange an appointment at the travel clinic through the Health Center.

When can a student see the athletic trainers?

The athletic trainers are available Monday thru Saturday for evaluation and treatment of injuries. This service is free of charge. There are fees, however, for protective equipment provided by the athletic trainers. This includes, but is not limited to splints and braces. The athletic trainers work closely with Health Center personnel. All doctors' orders for treatment for athletic injuries need to be in writing.

What is the ImPact test?

All new students are required at the beginning of the school year to take a 20-minute baseline computer test called ImPact. ImPact is used in the management of concussions. The test is set up like a video game and tracks information such as memory, reaction time and concentration. Once a student takes the test, unless he or she sustains a concussion, a retest should not be necessary for the remainder of that student's career at Taft.

What is a Physician Assistant (PA)?

A Physician Assistant is a health-care professional licensed to practice medicine with physician supervision. PAs conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, counsel on preventive health care, assist in surgery and, in most states, including Connecticut, are permitted to write prescriptions. Within the physician-PA relationship, physician assistants exercise autonomy in medical decision-making and provide a broad range of diagnostic and therapeutic services. A PA's practice may also include education, research and administrative services. PAs are trained in intensive education programs accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) . Because of the close working relationship PAs have with physicians, PAs are educated in the medical model designed to complement physician training. Physician Assistants are required to pass a national certification examination developed by the National Commission on Certification of PAs in conjunction with the National Board of Medical Examiners. To maintain national certification, PAs must accrue 100 hours of continuing medical education every two years and sit for a recertification every six years. Graduation from an accredited physician assistant program and passage of the national certifying exam are required for state licensure.

How does the Health Center staff interface with the school's other health-care personnel?

The director of the health center, the director of counseling and the head athletic trainer take a team approach to coordinating the care of every student. There is frequent communication between all three offices in an effort to comprehensively monitor treatment and recovery from illness, injuries and mental-health issues.

How does the Health Center interface with other faculty?

All medical records are kept confidential. However, with your child's permission, medical information may be shared, on a need-to-know basis, with the dean, advisor, coach, headmaster and any other faculty deemed necessary. Sensitive communication with all those who support your child is a Taft hallmark.

Will teachers be informed if my child is sick in the Health Center?

A daily list of students who are sick or injured in the Health Center or at home is posted to the faculty/staff electronic news. Students are asked to e-mail their dean, advisor, teachers and coaches to keep them informed. Detailed information on student health is shared with faculty only if a student requests it.

How can I be helpful?

Encourage your child to get enough sleep and to eat well. Advise them to get a yearly flu shot. If they are sick at home, keep us informed and please do not return them to school until they are better. Be sure to fill out appropriate health forms completely and promptly. Inform us of any pertinent changes. And please call us any time you have a question or concern about your child.