Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging
Wellness at Penn values diversity and welcomes students and patients from diverse backgrounds. Our team does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected class status in its services or in its employment practices.
- First Generation/Low Income Students: Being sick can sometimes be expensive. We understand this, and we recognize the challenges that can come with balancing healthcare costs with other financial responsibilities. If you have trouble with your medical bills or need assistance understanding your health insurance, please reach out to Wellness at Penn administration, and we will do our best to assist. If you have the Penn Student Health Insurance Plan (Aetna Student Health, also known as PSIP), you can also reach out to Deborah Olson, Aetna Student Health, at debolson@upenn.edu. Wellness at Penn also works closely with the Greenfield Intercultural Center to support the needs of FGLI students.
- International Students: The American healthcare system is different from other countries and can be confusing and frustrating even to people who have lived here their entire lives. Our Immunization and Insurance Navigators can help you comply with the University’s insurance requirements and help you understand the medical system here in America. English is not everyone’s first language, and communicating about medical issues can be challenging. If you need foreign language interpretation, we can arrange for phone interpretation during your visit. Please ask for it (let us know before the visit, if possible). We work closely with Penn’s International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) and Penn’s English Language Program to support our many international students.
- Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/Queer Health: We recognize that sexual minorities often face discrimination in healthcare. Learn more about our LGBTQ+ health services. While we have specific providers who have additional expertise on these topic areas, our entire staff are trained to provide inclusive and respectful general care to our LGBTQ+ patients.
- Racial and Ethnic Diversity: Penn’s campus community is becoming more and more diverse. We recognize that racial and ethnic minorities have seen disparities in health as well as discrimination in society for many years. Our diverse staff and providers are prepared to offer services that are equitable and welcoming, regardless of your background. We collaborate with La Casa Latina, Makuu Black Cultural Center, and the Pan-Asian American Community House to address healthcare needs of minority students at Penn.
- Religious Diversity: Our students come from many different spiritual and religious backgrounds. If your healthcare decisions are guided by requirements of your faith, please let us know, so we can help you obtain the best care while respecting your spiritual background. We collaborate often with the Chaplain’s Office to support our diverse student body.
- Transgender Health and Gender Diversity: Our team provides equitable and affirming care for patients of all genders. We will respect your gender, your name, and your pronouns, no matter what brings you through our doors. Just let us know how you would like to be addressed. Everyone, from our front desk staff to our nurses and providers, are prepared to offer welcoming and respectful care to people of all genders. And you can find single-use unisex bathrooms throughout our office suite.
- Women’s Health: While no longer a statistical minority in all segments of academic life, we recognize that women still face many challenges in accessing equitable and respectful healthcare. We provide gynecologic services like Pap tests, birth control pills, and breast exams, but we know that women’s healthcare incorporates much more than your gynecologic needs. Whether you are coming for a cold or for contraceptive counseling, rest assured that you will receive care that respects you as an entire person. Learn about the Gynecologic Care available. We collaborate with the Penn Women’s Center to ensure supportive and welcoming resources for women students at Penn.