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Frequently Asked Questions

Feinberg has compiled a list of frequently asked questions here that apply to the medical school. For a full list of FAQ about the Northwestern University response, including information on vaccines, travel and academics, visit the Northwestern COVID-19 website.

 How can members of the Feinberg community be tested for COVID-19?

Information about COVID-19 testing for Feinberg can be found here.

 How can members of the Feinberg community receive the COVID-19 vaccine?

Please visit Northwestern Medicine's COVID-19 vaccine site for more information.

 I am a Northwestern University employee or student. Can I walk in to a designated Northwestern Medicine location for a vaccine if I haven’t received an appointment confirmation?

Yes, Northwestern Medicine immediate care centers provide walk-in patients with COVID-19 vaccinations. Visit the Northwestern Medicine COVID-19 vaccination site for more information, including locations and hours.

 Where can I find information about current mask guidelines?

In accordance with City of Chicago policy, masking is optional in all non-clinical Feinberg spaces. This includes administrative areas, research labs, classrooms, libraries, lobbies and lounges.

In clinical and non-Northwestern University owned spaces, continue to follow local requirements.

 What is Feinberg's policy for school-sponsored events?

Feinberg-sponsored events reserve the right to require all attendees to be fully vaccinated.

At Feinberg, not only do we maintain a commitment to the safety of our students, faculty and staff, but we all play key roles in providing healthcare to and engaging with the Chicagoland community, including those most vulnerable to COVID-19, such as unvaccinated adults and children, immunocompromised persons and persons with underlying conditions that increase risk of severe disease from COVID-19. We feel an obligation to do everything we can to ensure that our community members do not unintentionally spread the virus to vulnerable persons who put their trust in us - and this includes requiring vaccinations in order to attend special events hosted by Feinberg, such as dinners, ceremonies, graduations and retreats. While we are excited to be able to return to hosting in-person events, we must also respect our Patients First mission.

 What is Northwestern's current travel guidance?

Northwestern University's COVID-19 travel guidance can be found here.

 How can Feinberg employees report harassment or discrimination related to COVID-19?

All members of the Northwestern University community should be free from harassment and discrimination, and we intend to uphold our values. If any member of the community feels they have been treated unfairly because of their race, country of origin or where they have traveled, please reach out to the Office of Equity.

 Where can I find Feinberg-specific Zoom backgrounds?

Feinberg Zoom backgrounds can be found on the Feinberg Branding SharePoint.

Research FAQ

 Where can I find the latest Feinberg guidance on conducting clinical trials?

Detailed information on conducting clinical research can be found on the Feinberg COVID-19 homepage

 How do I share my COVID-19 research idea with the administration?

If you are interested in starting a COVID-19-related project, please send a one-paragraph description by email to Rex L. Chisholm, PhD, and Abby Cosentino-Boehm, DrPh

Education FAQ

 When did Northwestern announce a COVID-19 vaccine requirement for students?

On May 12, 2021, the Office of the Provost communicated that students are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 for the 2021-22 academic year. Find up-to-date information on COVID-19 vaccination at Northwestern here.

 Where can I find COVID-19 information for current medical students?

Information for current medical students can be found in the COVID-19 MD Student Resources section of the MD Education site.

 Is there required regular student testing for COVID-19?

Student COVID-19 testing is currently voluntary. Additional COVID-19 testing information for Northwestern can be found here