A student who wants to take a medical leave of absence must communicate in writing, and meet in person as needed, with the appropriate university representative to request a leave (see chart below).  The student must also consult with the appropriate Student Health clinician on their campus (see chart below) prior to the start of the leave, to discuss the reasons for the leave and to provide information from the treating clinician. The Student Health clinician will ensure that the student is evaluated and will communicate with the appropriate university representative about the request. In the event of an urgent medical condition, the Student Health clinician may opt to forego a personal visit and may gather the necessary information from the treating clinician with the student’s written authorization. If the Student Health clinician is the student’s treating provider, an alternate, independent clinician will be selected to evaluate the need for a leave of absence.  If the request for medical leave of absence is approved, written approval will be provided to the student by the appropriate university representative, which will also outline the process for a future return from the leave.  While on leave, students are not permitted to take classes at the University or at any other institution for academic credit.

A student seeking to return from a medical leave of absence must direct their request in writing to the appropriate university representative, who will then refer them to the appropriate Student Health clinician.  The Student Health clinician will arrange the appropriate screening(s) and will review information from the treating clinician and any other necessary practitioners. A University designated provider, such as the Student Health clinician or a designated psychiatrist, will provide a written opinion regarding the return of the student. This may include recommendations for continued enrollment and any recommended accommodations.  The appropriate university representative will consider the information provided and will notify the student in writing of the decision on their request to return from medical leave, as well as any conditions of continued enrollment and any approved accommodations.

Mandatory Medical Leaves of Absence

Thomas Jefferson University reserves the right to temporarily remove a student from the University, a course, or a rotation, pending evaluation and, if necessary, a course of appropriate treatment. The University will determine the length of the medical leave of absence and will require the student to demonstrate fitness to return to school. The University will also determine whether restrictions in access to campus, students, email account or other University services are necessary during the leave. The student will be informed, in writing, of any restrictions during their leave of absence.

Prior to reentry, an appropriate screening(s) will be arranged by the Student Health clinician with consultation, if necessary. Should the University require a mandatory leave of absence, the conditions of return will be defined, which may include restricting the scheduling of experiential education at away sites or at Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals.