Health and Safety - AUCA-Bard

Health issues are generally the same in Kyrgyzstan as they are in the United States.
Adapting to a new climate, food, water, and way of life may affect one’s health during the first few weeks but usually has no lasting effects. For more information visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.

Health Insurance

Provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Solutions
Students on Bard Abroad programs have access to medical, security and travel-related services through BCBS Global Solutions. BCBS Global Solutions provides a searchable database for doctors and facilities in the GeoBlue-contracted community.

Health and Safety Resources

  • Bard-AUCA Health Insurance and Prescriptions
    Health Insurance
    Health Insurance is included in the program cost. All students participating in the Bard Abroad in Bishkek program are enrolled in the travel health insurance plan written for Bard College for use on study abroad programs (see information on GeoBlue coverage below).

    Most health care providers abroad do not have direct billing relationships with U.S. insurance companies and require payment at the time of service. Therefore, students may be expected to pay for treatment and submit receipts to the insurance company for reimbursement.

    Prescriptions
    Please note: U.S. prescriptions cannot be filled at a Kyrgyz pharmacy. It is also illegal to mail/ship prescription drugs. It is best to bring a supply of prescription drugs that will suffice for your entire stay. Be sure to bring a copy of your prescription with you in case customs authorities ask you for it.
  • AUCA Medical Services
    AUCA has a medical services office on campus staffed by a therapist, physical therapist, psychologist, and nurse. If you need to see a physician off campus, AUCA program staff can assist you in setting up appointments for medical care. Staff will accompany participants to the doctor if so desired.
  • Safety and Security in Bishkek
    Bishkek is generally a safe place, with crime levels similar to large cities in the United States.
    Petty crime is by far the most widespread form of criminal activity and can be dealt with by using everyday street smarts. Students should keep their wallets or purses in secure locations and be aware of their bags and pockets, and they are advised not to carry large sums of money unless absolutely necessary.

    If students ever find themselves in immediate danger, our program staff is on call 24 hours a day. Our program orientations feature extensive units on safety in Bishkek, and the student handbook is an invaluable source of information for those who are concerned about their security abroad.

    We encourage students to review the information on safety and security in Kyrgyzstan available from the U.S. State Department.
    U.S. State Department