Case Western Reserve University seeks to promote a community of care through providing Medical Amnesty for individuals and organizations who seek medical attention related to medical emergencies for alcohol and drugs. To ensure that a student obtain the help they need for these potentially life-threatening emergencies, CWRU seeks to reduce barriers to seeking assistance.
Case Western Reserve University's Medical Amnesty Policy eliminates Student Code of Conduct consequences for students and/or organizations seeking assistance, for the assisted individual and for others involved. The policy applies when the allegations under the Student Code of Conduct or other policies involve consumption of alcohol, use of drugs or disorderly conduct. The policy does not preclude disciplinary action regarding other policy violations, such as causing or threatening physical harm, sexual violence, damage to property, fake identification, unlawful provision of alcohol or other drugs, harassment or hazing.
In order for this protocol to apply, the assisted student must agree to timely completion of assigned alcohol and/or drug education activities, assessment, and/or treatment (assigned by Case Western Reserve University depending on the level of concern for student health and safety). Failure to complete recommended follow-up will normally result in revocation of Medical Amnesty. Repeated incidents may prompt a higher degree of medical concern with additional steps taken.
Likewise, organizations involved in an incident must agree to take recommended steps to address concerns, such as educational follow-up. Multiple incidents may result in revocation of an organization's recognition. Medical Amnesty does not negate the university's obligation to notify the CWRU Police Department as required by Ohio State Law. The Medical Amnesty Policy represents the University's commitment to increasing the likelihood that community members will call for medical assistance when faced with an alcohol and drug emergency. The Medical Amnesty Policy also promotes education for individuals who receive emergency medical attention related to their own use of alcohol or other drugs in order to reduce the likelihood of future occurrences.
Last Updated: August 14, 2019