Medical Excuse Policy

Gannett does not provide medical excuses.
It is, and has been for many years, Gannett’s policy not to routinely provide medical "excuses" for students who have missed classes, exams, or due dates for papers or projects. Our reasons are several, including our commitment to patient confidentiality, our role in educating students about appropriate use of health care, our concern for furthering the developmental transitions of young adulthood, our lack of direct knowledge about illness or injuries effectively managed by self care, and our own finite resources. It is important that students and faculty resolve concerns that arise when illness interferes with academics with appropriate honesty and trust.

Gannett can provide verification of a visit.
To students who request it, we will provide a "Verification of Visit" form, confirming that a student had a visit at Gannett. This form provides the date and time of the appointment but no other information. Stop by Gannett or call 255-5155 for assistance.

Major illness or injury

When a student is hospitalized or has suffered a major illness or injury, we will, if possible with the student’s consent, contact Cornell’s Crisis Manager to help coordinate communication with the student’s college. If a student or medical provider believes that a student’s ongoing medical problem should be accommodated through modifications to his/her academic schedule, the Gannett provider will, at the student's request and with the student’s permission, provide appropriate medical information to the college’s academic advising office. Talk with your health care provider.

Our policy
Our policy resembles those of most other major universities, is consistent with the recommendations of the American College Health Association, and is supported by Cornell’s Dean of Students and the Vice President for Student and Academic Services.