3.3.4
Sexual and Reproductive Health Care Services for Students Policy
The University of Thessaly (UTh) is committed to ensuring that all students have access to accurate information, education, and high-quality services related to sexual and reproductive health and well-being. This policy establishes a framework for delivering preventive health education, confidential medical support, and awareness programmes in collaboration with the School of Health Sciences, the Faculty of Medicine and the Department of Nursing namely
According to the Ministry of Education Circular and the Law 4452/2017, uninsured undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as doctoral candidates, are entitled to full medical and hospital care in the National Healthcare Service (NHS – Greek: ESY) with coverage of said expenses by the National Organization for Health Care Services (Greek: EOPYY). The students are referred to Public Health Services with their Social Security number,
This policy aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being, SDG 5 – Gender Equality, and SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities), and with Law 4957/2022 (Articles 251–254), which affirms the social responsibility of Greek universities to safeguard the health, safety, and well-being of their communities.
The University of Thessaly provides access to sexual and reproductive health-care services and education designed to promote informed decision-making, gender equality, and preventive health practices among students. These services emphasize respect for individual rights, confidentiality, inclusivity, and professional medical ethics.
Key provisions and objectives include:
Access to Medical and Nursing Expertise: The Medical School and the Department of Nursing provide students with access to specialized medical consultations, preventive screenings, and referrals related to sexual and reproductive health, including contraception, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and reproductive planning.
Health Education and Awareness: Regular educational workshops, seminars, and information campaigns are conducted on topics such as sexual health, consent, reproductive rights, family planning, and healthy relationships. Additionaly, post graduate courses (such as Primary Health care Masters program, and the International Master in Lifestyle medicine) offer courses on Sexual Helath, Gender, Self-care, Relationships and Reproductive Health on their curriculum.
Confidential Counseling and Support: Students may access confidential counseling and psychological support services provided by trained professionals in collaboration with the Student Welfare Office and the Center for Student Counselling and Psychological Support of UTH.
Prevention and Early Intervention: The University promotes the early detection and prevention of sexually transmitted infections and reproductive health issues through free or low-cost medical check-ups and awareness campaigns.
Inclusivity and Non-Discrimination: All services are offered in a manner that is inclusive and non-discriminatory, ensuring equitable access for all students regardless of gender, sexual orientation, nationality, or socioeconomic background.
Collaboration with Public Health Authorities: The University maintains active partnerships with local health centers, hospitals, and NGOs to extend available services and ensure continuity of care where required.
Student Participation: Student associations and health advocacy groups are encouraged to collaborate with the University’s health departments to design peer education and awareness initiatives.
The Rector, together with the Dean of the School of Health Sciences, oversees the implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement of sexual and reproductive health services on all campuses.
Through this policy, the University of Thessaly reaffirms its commitment to the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of its students, fostering a campus culture of health, respect, and equality.