Scholastic Emergency Services (formerly Assist America)

Assist America’s Scholastic Emergency Services Program is included in the KU study abroad program fee.  A membership card and a brochure describing in detail the services of Scholastic Emergency Services and the benefits it provides will be included in the Orientation packets given to every student. The OSA encourages students to read the Scholastic Emergency Services brochure carefully. Contact your Study Abroad Advisor if you have any questions.

What is Scholastic Emergency Services (SES)?

Scholastic Emergency Services (SES) provides assistance to overseas travelers in the way of consultation about and coordination of local medical services.  In addition, SES provides services and, if necessary, cost for emergency transportation to a medical facility (not including initial transport to hospital for evaluation) where adequate care is available.  Some restrictions apply. 

What are some of the services that SES provides?

SES will help students during medical and personal emergencies while traveling.  Services include medical consultation and evacuation, medical referrals and medical monitoring, and transportation to the nearest medical facility in which adequate care can be provided.  In addition, SES provides a number of personal services including emergency message transmission, return of mortal remains, prescription assistance and legal, counseling, and interpreter referrals.

Why is SES included in my program fee?

KU Study Abroad includes SES in the program fee to provide students and their families with international assistance in the case of a medical emergency and to protect them from the costs associated with emergency medical evacuation and repatriation.  These kinds of services and transportation costs can easily run into tens of thousands of dollars.  Usually, they are NOT covered by health insurance policies.

Is SES Health Insurance?

NO!  SES is not health insurance and does not provide for any of the costs of medical care.  All students studying abroad on KU programs must provide their own major medical health insurance.

Does SES pay for Emergency Medical Services?

NO! SES does not pay for any medical expenses and services do not replace medical insurance for emergencies away from home.  Each student or his/her health insurance plan is responsible for all incurred medical expenses.

Are there limitations to the services provided by SES?

YES! The SES brochure lists Limitations and Exclusions on the back page. Examples include services arising from illness or injury as a result of “the use of illegal drugs”, “attempted suicide”,  “commission of an unlawful act”, “participation in acts of war or insurrection”, and evacuation or repatriation of “members with advanced pregnancies of over six months” and members “with mental or nervous disorders unless hospitalized.”

How do I access assistance through SES?

Students must contact SES prior to seeking services by calling the worldwide access phone number provided on the Assist America identification card (included in pre-departure materials).  It is important to note that all services must be arranged and provided by SES.  SES will not reimburse for services that it has not provided. 

What is an example of services provided by SES?

A student becomes suddenly ill with appendicitis in a small town in Italy.  Surgery is necessary.  SES determines that the local medical facilities are not adequate for the surgery.  SES arranges for transporting the patient to the nearest adequate facility – in this case, Rome – in order for the student to receive appropriate care.