All students enrolled at BIMS SOM-HP must be fully immunized and must submit, during the admissions process, proof of immunization against the following.
Proof of Vaccinations/Screening against:
PPD (for Tuberculosis) – performed within the last 10 months.
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) -2 vaccines within the last 10 years
Tetanus - within the last 10 yrs
Diphtheria – complete doses (6)
Varicella (Chicken pox) – 2 vaccines within the last 10 yrs
Hepatitis B – 3 vaccines within the last 10 yrs
Flu shot – students should receive a shot annually as appropriate for the flu season (September – May)
Covid vaccines (2 plus boosters within the last 3 – 6 months)
Any student with an immunization shortfall would need to obtain the requisite booster shots prior to joining the school.
Refusal of Required Immunizations and Health Screenings Policy:
Regarding the potential refusal by a medical student to comply with required immunizations or medical testing for religious or other reasons:
The Jamaican government, as well as various affiliated hospitals and other clinical training sites where BIMS - School of Medicine& Health Professions students are placed for their clinical rotations, require that all members of their health-care workforce must receive specific immunizations and/or have evidence of immunity from specific diseases and undergo periodic health tests before receiving instruction in clinical settings and performing the essential functions of a medical student.
This immunization and documentation requirement is essential not only to show that the students are protected but also to protect patients with whom they will come into contact during clinical rotations, visits to clinical facilities, and during volunteer or relief programs.
This immunization and documentation requirement is also required by our affiliated clinical teaching facilities before any medical students are allowed into their institutions.
These requirements are specific and are based upon current recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other experts. The students are advised to comply with the schedules indicated by the CDC.
