Starting college is a big transition! New classes, potentially a new place to live and a lot more independence! If you’re managing a chronic condition like diabetes, epilepsy, a gastrointestinal (GI) disorder or a mental health condition, you might also be wondering how you’ll stay on top of your health while being away from home.  

The good news is that a little planning can help you feel more prepared and confident before move-in day. 

start planning before classes start

A few months before college starts, make a checklist of your health needs. Having a plan in place can help reduce stress once classes begin. Make a simple checklist that includes: 

• Medications and prescriptions  
• Doctor appointments  
• Medical supplies  
• Insurance coverage  
• Emergency contacts  
• School accommodations  

make sure you can get your prescriptions filled

One of the most important steps is figuring out how you’ll get your medications while at school. 

Before leaving for college: 

• Ask your doctor for enough refills to last through the semester if possible  
• Set reminders so you don’t run out of medication 
• Find a pharmacy near campus and learn how to transfer prescriptions if needed 
• Check if your insurance works in your college town  

This is especially important for students managing conditions like: 

• Diabetes that requires insulin or glucose monitoring supplies  
• Epilepsy medications that need to be taken consistently  
• GI conditions that require daily medications  
• Mental health medications that should not be stopped suddenly  

If you use specialty medications, ask your care team how deliveries will work at school.

know where to go for medical care

Before classes start, learn about the healthcare options near campus. 

Find out: 

• Where the student health center is located  
• Which urgent care or emergency room is closest  
• Whether there are pediatric or adult specialists nearby  

Some students may continue seeing their pediatric specialist during college breaks or through virtual visits. Others may need help transitioning to an adult care provider closer to campus. 

Talk with your specialist before college about: 

• How often you need follow-up visits  
• What symptoms mean it’s time to schedule an appointment  
• What to do if you have a flare-up or emergency 

take charge of your health

College is often the first time students manage healthcare on their own. Practice skills like: 

• Scheduling appointments  
• Calling in prescription refills  
• Tracking symptoms  
• Understanding your medications  

Keeping important medical information in your phone can also help in an emergency. Include your diagnosis, medications, allergies and emergency contacts. 

you don’t have to figure it out alone

Starting college with a chronic condition may take extra preparation, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Consider talking with your roommate and close friends about your health needs. Many chronic conditions are “invisible,” so others may not know when you need help unless you share it with them. Letting someone know what to watch for and how to help in an emergency can help you feel safer and more supported on campus.  

Starting college can feel overwhelming, especially with a chronic condition, but support is available. Your healthcare team, family and school resources are there to support you along the way. 

With preparation and the right support, you can spend less time worrying about your condition and more time enjoying your college experience.