Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of our most frequent questions and answers from UB students. If you prefer to ask someone in person, contact our office to schedule an appointment

General

Where are you located and how do I get there?

We are located on the South Campus in Hayes Annex C, Suite 5.

What are your office hours?

We are open Monday through Friday, 8:30 am–4:30 pm. During University breaks, our office hours may change. Call us to hear any change in hours during those times.

Sex Education

How do I get birth control at UB?

It's great that you're thinking ahead about birth control! All women who want to go on Birth Control may need to have a Gynecological Exam. An annual Gynecological Exam is a chance to assess your general health including your heart's health, blood pressure, and weight, as well as have a breast exam and a pelvic exam. Before you schedule your GYN exam at Student Health Services you can call us at 829-2584 to schedule a Women's Health Session, where you'll have additional time and opportunity for questions and information about birth control methods, sexual health, or other related information.

Where can I find a place that does STD testing at UB and how long do I need to wait for results?

You can be tested for STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) at the Student Health Center located in Michael Hall on the South Campus. The cost and the time it takes to get results depends on what you are tested for, but typically results are back within 2-3 weeks. You can call 829-3316 to schedule an appointment.

I want to start taking birth control but I can't tell my parents therefore I can't use my UB insurance. What should I do?

Students don't always have to use their health insurance to get Birth Control at UB. The SBI pharmacy in Michael Hall sells birth control for really low prices - sometimes even lower than insurance co-pays! So, you wouldn't necessarily need their insurance for that. Just for the initial visit.
If you have Student Health Insurance, talk to the Student Medical Insurance office about the report that goes to your parents about what services/prescriptions have been paid for (645-3036). Or, you could try Planned Parenthood - 831-2200. Call our office if you need more info! 829-2584.

What is a women’s health session?

A Women’s Health Session is a 30–45 minute appointment focusing on basic women’s reproductive health matters including the menstrual cycle process, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including transmission, treatment, and prevention, and contraceptive & birth control options. This education and counseling session can also include your partner if you wish. The session is provided by a trained SBI Health Education Peer Educator. This is a great opportunity to ask questions or talk about sexual health issues in a relaxed, confidential setting.

We recommend a Women's Health Session before your annual gynecological (GYN) exam at the Student Health Center. Visit Women's Health Services for more information about GYN services and appointments at the Student Health Center.

Where is the Emergency Contraceptive (aka EC, Morning After Pill, Plan B) available at UB and how much does it cost?

Emergency Contraception (EC or the Morning After Pill) is available at the SBI Pharmacy located in the basement of Michael Hall (Student Health Center). The brand offered there is Plan B, and it costs $25. Remember – you need to take EC within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex. When taken correctly within 72 hours, it is 75%-89% effective in preventing pregnancy.

We have trained counselors available who can answer questions or concerns you might have. Call us or stop by our office

Will I be charged for the Women’s Health Session?

No - SBI Health Education offers the session as a free service for UB students.

Does the Women’s Health Session go on my parents' or my health insurance?

The Women’s Health Session itself will not appear on any billing. The annual GYN exam appointment may appear, depending on your insurance. Talk with the Student Health Center about that.

Are the Women’s health sessions in a group?

No, they are one-on-one. Or, if you like, you and your partner can attend together.

How do I schedule a pregnancy test and where do I go for the test?

Pregnancy tests can be scheduled through us – call or stop by our office to arrange a test.

You will go to the SBI Clinical Lab, located in the basement of Michael Hall, for the test itself. Counseling and results are provided at the SBI Health Education office.

How much does the pregnancy test cost?

If you do not have the UB Student Insurance, or if you don’t have health insurance coverage at all, the pregnancy test is free. If you have the UB Student Insurance, your insurance plan will be billed $10 – you pay nothing out of your pocket.

These prices are only if you go through SBI Health Education for your test results. Call us if you have questions about the test or costs.

AIDS Coalition

Where do I go for HIV Testing?

You can make an appointment with the Michael Hall Health Center - 829-3316

Do you do STD testing?

You can have STI testing through the Health Center. It's only $10. Call them for info - 829-3316. We provide STI counseling and info, if you'd like to set up a one-on-one, confidential session before or after you're tested! Call us at 829-2584.

SBI Safety Services

Who do I contact about doing my community service with SBI Safety Services?

Students assigned community service hours through Judicial Affairs can choose to volunteer for the SBI walk stations. You will need to pick this placement through Judicial Affairs first and then call our office to set up an appointment. At this appointment you will receive your time sheet, sign paperwork, and sign up for the 2 hour mandatory ARTF training. Any question about community service should be directed to Nicole Volo, Assistant Director. Hours worked without following this protocol will not be accepted.

How can I volunteer to help with the SBI walk stations or safety shuttle service?

Contact us by telephone or email. We will talk about your availability and set up a time for training. Volunteers for the Safety Shuttle Service need to have a valid driver's license.

What are the hours for operation of the walk stations and safety shuttle services? Where are they located?

Visit the pages for the SBI Walk Stations and Safety Shuttle.

How do I contact SBI to obtain a safety walk from the walk stations or a ride from the safety shuttle services?

For a safety walk, simply stop or call the SBI Walk Stations during operating hours.

For a ride with the Safety Shuttle Service, stop at one of the safety shuttle locations during operating hours. Off Campus pick-ups may be arranged by contacting SBI Health Education before 4:00 pm weekdays.