Temporary Injuries and Illness

We understand that temporary medical conditions or injuries can impact your academic progress. We offer support and resources to help you manage these challenges and minimize disruptions to your studies.

Understanding the Difference: Temporary Condition vs. Disability

It's important to distinguish between temporary conditions and disabilities. A temporary illness or injury is one that is expected to resolve within a limited timeframe, typically a few weeks or less. Examples include the flu, a short-term viral infection, a sprained ankle, or a brief period of recovery following a medical procedure. A disability, as defined under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), is a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. While a temporary illness or injury may be challenging, it is unlikely to be considered a disability under Section 504 or the ADA, as these laws are designed to address substantial limitations that are typically long-term or permanent.

What to Do If You Experience a Temporary Illness or Disability:

  1. Communicate and Collaborate with Your Instructors: As soon as possible, inform your instructors about your situation. Provide them with an explanation of your temporary condition and how it might impact your ability to attend class, complete assignments, or participate in exams. Documentation from a healthcare provider may be helpful in some cases. Work with your instructors to develop a plan for managing your coursework during your temporary illness or recovery. This may involve adjusting deadlines, providing alternative assignments, or making arrangements for missed classes. Remember, instructors have discretion in how they accommodate absences and missed work due to temporary illnesses.
  2. Utilize Available Resources: MUSC offers various resources that may be helpful, such as:
  3. Be Proactive: It is your responsibility to communicate proactively with your instructors and seek the support you need. Do not wait until you have fallen behind in your coursework. Important Considerations:
    • Attendance Policies: Review each of your course syllabi for specific attendance policies and procedures for excused absences.
    • Extended Absences: If your temporary condition extends beyond a reasonable timeframe, or if you believe you may have an ongoing disability, please contact the Office of Federal and State Compliance to discuss your options and determine if you are eligible for accommodations under Section 504 or Title II of the ADA.

When to Contact the Office of Federal and State Compliance:

Please reach out to our office if you have a condition that will last more than a few weeks and:

  • You or your instructors need guidance on academic accommodations;
  • You have classes or programs in classrooms that you cannot access;
  • You are unable to meet clinical obligations; or
  • Your condition is preventing you from participating in your classes or clinical activities (e.g., you are unable to take your own notes, you are no longer able to meet your clinical requirements, etc.)

Note: The Office of Federal and State Compliance may require supporting documentation from your health care provider. Please be aware that we cannot assist with things like: typing homework assignments, personal assistance (e.g., laundry), or transportation to off-campus medical appointments. Learn how to request disability accommodations.