...
In order to maintain a safe and healthy learning environment as well as to ensure the well-being of all its students and employees, the University of South Florida System (USF System Regulation 6.0163, Involuntary Health-Related Withdrawal) requires MCOM to initiate formal proceedings and evaluations when a student’s behavior presents a direct threat of harm to self or others, or if a student’s behavior presents a significant and persistent disruption to the University community and affiliated learning environments.
- This process is not a routine substitute for APRC regulated academic disciplinary action when there is a violation of the Student Code of Conduct nor will it supplant the USF System’s USF’s policy for addressing violations of substance abuse and alcohol policies.
- If a student’s expressed behavior is reported (by self or others) or appears to be the result of a physical or psychological health-related issue, the MCOM Associate Dean for Student Affairs (or other designated officer [e.g., Assistant Dean for Student Affairs on the USF-LV campus) will refer the matter to a designated MCOM committee (comparable to SOCAT), which will refer the matter to designated health and wellness professionals as to determine if the student’s behaviors or physical circumstances meet criteria for:
- Recommending a voluntary health-related withdrawal or leave of absence as needed or recommended by a qualified independent health care provider.
- Requiring involuntary withdrawal with mandatory assessment and brief monitored intervention.
- Invoking immediate temporary suspension if the student refuses to comply with policy and/or treatment recommendations or is determined to be an immediate direct threat to self or others.
- The student will be notified by the MCOM Associate Dean for Student Affairs, of any administrative considerations for an involuntary withdrawal or leave of absence and afforded opportunity to engage in the decision-making process before a final determination.
- The MCOM Office of Student Affairs advises the student of the right to contact the USF Office of Disability Services to initiate a request for reasonable and appropriate accommodations to enable a student to maintain his/her enrollment status.
- Regardless of the circumstances for leave of absence, the USF System Tuition and Fees Regulations (USF 4.0102 and 4.0107) Policy 30-013 will apply with regard to tuition, fees and refunds.
- Any student subject to an involuntary leave of absence may appeal in writing to the Vice Dean for Educational Affairs within three (3) days of the date of the notice to the student of the involuntary leave of absence. The Vice Dean for Educational Affairs will consider the written appeal and render a final decision within ten (10) days or notify the student that additional time will be necessary to consider the appeal. After due consideration and consultation with designated University officials, the Vice Dean for Educational Affairs will issue a written decision. The Vice Dean’s decision is a final action.
- Any student withdrawing under this Regulation, whether voluntary or involuntary, may submit a request to return to MCOM during the subsequent term to the Associate Dean for Student Affairs at any time. Students returning from involuntary leave will be required to submit summary documentation from a pre-approved, qualified medical or psychological provider. The summary documentation must indicate that the student is fit to return to school, able to meet academic/technical standards of the MD program, and all professional activities. In exceptional circumstances, the USF System and the MCOM may elect to request a second, independent opinion paid for by USF.
- Involuntary dismissal decisions will be communicated to the student in writing, along with any conditions for readmission, if applicable.
...