Though that next vaccination might pinch for a second, University Health Services promises that providing proof of that prick will be quick and painless.
So painless, in fact, that it's on the honor system.
University Health Services' (UHS) new online data-recording system, "Open Communicator," allows students to log on to a secure Web site and submit immunization and medical records without a physician's signature.
"In the past, we sent a paper form to fill out, and you had to submit that before your freshman year," said Chuck Moore, manager of information technology services for UHS. "That was too time consuming for the student because you had to have it taken to your doctor and mailed. Some universities have no immunization requirements. It is really up to the school to decide how to collect this information."
Recently, the system was installed to eliminate the manual entering of data for thousands of Penn State students.
"There was no way to verify those signatures or that information other than calling every student's doctor," said Beth Collitt, UHS marketing manager. "We handle all the forms for all the campuses."
As it has been in past years, suspicious information will be verified by phone.
However, Collitt said she isn't concerned about attempted falsifications of the university's required immunizations for mumps, measles and rubella.
"Basically, the information that students are entering is for their own health and safety," Collitt said.
"If they enter incorrect information on purpose, really they are just hurting themselves."
Thirty universities are currently using the do-it-yourself software, but Penn State is the first of the Big Ten, Moore said, adding that UHS has received few complaints.
"We have had a few questions from parents," he said.
"Never say never, but the chances of you getting that illness are very slim because you have had that vaccination. People who are being truthful about their information have very little to worry about."
Entered on a secure Web site, medical records will help physicians to better treat students and spare UHS visitors the pre-appointment paperwork.
The more information, the better, Collitt said.
"We encourage everyone to fill out the health history form. It's not required but it really helps," she added.
The form is available at www.sa.psu.edu/UHS along with other new features including lab result retrieval, message-sending to specific doctors and online appointment booking.
"If you wake up in the middle of the night and don't feel well, you can go and look at the available slots and get yourself an appointment," she said.
"You can fill out forms ahead of time. If you were going in for a procedure, you might be able to have them e-mailed to you so you don't have to wait and do it while you are here."
In fact, waiting is no longer an option at UHS, Moore said.
"We have kiosks in our building and when students come in for an appointment, students check themselves in," he said. "They don't have to wait for a receptionist."
UHS patrons can check in by swiping identification cards at five kiosks located throughout the building.
"When you are dealing with an individual face-to-face it could take a few minutes," Moore said.
"The average check-in time with kiosks is 25 seconds. I have yet to see a line."
He said the "Point and Click" initiative is only part of an effort to make healthcare at Penn State more "student-centered."
