Public/Student Health (D-26)
Original Implementation: February 29, 1988
Last Revision: July 19, 2011
Stephen F. Austin State University recognizes an obligation to promote public health on campus by protecting students, faculty, and staff from the spread of contagious and infectious diseases. An effective and responsible approach to safeguarding public health on campus requires that legitimate concerns about the potential for transmission of diseases in university settings neither be sensationalized nor minimized, but that university officials work closely with other interested parties to establish policies and procedures that inhibit the likelihood of contagion while promoting an educational environment characterized by safety, continuity, and calm.
When circumstances arise that require review, the vice president for university affairs will convene a Public/Student Health Committee, consisting of appropriate faculty and staff members. This committee will assist the vice president in coordinating the university’s efforts to fulfill its responsibility concerning public health. In carrying out its tasks, the committee shall follow the guidelines of recognized authorities including: The National Center for Disease Control, the United States Public Health Service, the Texas Department of Health, and the American College Health Association. Further, the committee shall conform its actions to the Texas Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Act and other law.
In the event of public inquiry concerning university policy on public health or health-related matters at SFA, the executive director of marketing, or their designee, will serve as the official spokesperson for the university. Medical records of individuals shall remain confidential, but public information shall be disclosed upon request in accordance with the Texas Public Information Act and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. Requests for such information should be referred to the university's general counsel.
If a public health issue arises that could involve the continuity of business and academic functions of the university, other ad hoc committees may be impaneled to address those particular issues.
Cross Reference: Tex. Health & Safety Code Ch. 81; Tex. Gov’t Code Ch. 552; Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, 20 U.S.C. § 1232g
Responsible for Implementation: Vice President for University Affairs
Contact for Revision: Vice President for University Affairs
Forms: None
Board Committee Assignment: Academic and Student Affairs