Services

MRU FAQs

What is the Medical Response Unit (MRU)?

  • The Medical Response Unit, or MRU, is a field extension of Student Health & Wellness Center that provides rapid response to your campus location, free medical treatment, and free medical transport to the on-campus clinics and surrounding hospitals. 

How do I contact the MRU?

  • For medical response and treatment, please call MRU dispatch at 813-974-4678.
  • For general questions and inquiries, please contact medresponse@usf.edu 


Are the people on the Medical Response Unit medical professionals?

  • Yes, the MRU is staffed by state and/or nationally certified Paramedics, Emergency Medical Technicians, and Emergency Medical Responders.


Who can call the Medical Response Unit?

  • Any student, faculty, staff, or guest of the University of South Florida-Tampa campus can utilize the Medical Response Unit and receive free medical assistance.


When should I call the Medical Response Unit?

  • The Medical Response Unit should be called whenever you are sick or injured or need medical transportation to SHWC.
  • If your life is in danger, do not call the MRU before 911. All life-threatening emergencies require the activation of 911. When in doubt, always call 911 first.

What are some examples of medical and traumatic injuries that I should call the Medical Response Unit for?

  • Examples include broken bones, cold/flu symptoms, cuts requiring stitches, minor burns, animal bites, nausea/vomiting, and abdominal pain.

How long will I have to wait for the Medical Response Unit to respond to my location?

  • The average response time is approximately 5-8 minutes from when the unit is dispatched to arrival on scene. Requests should be made to 813-974-4678.


Where can the Medical Response Unit take me?

  • The MRU can transport any USF student to the Student Health & Wellness Center Clinic, Morsani Center for Advanced Healthcare, James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, Advent Health Tampa Hospital.


Do I have to be on campus to utilize the Medical Response Unit?

  • Yes, you must be on the USF-Tampa campus to activate the MRU.


Will I get charged for using the Medical Response Unit?

  • No, the medical assistance and transportation provided by the Medical Response Unit is entirely free.


Is the Medical Response Unit 911 and can they take me to the Emergency Room?

  • No, the Medical Response Unit (MRU) is not a replacement for 911. 911 should always be activated if you believe you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency. The MRU can transport to SHWC and surrounding emergency departments.  


Is the Medical Response Unit available on holidays or when the University of South Florida is closed?

  • No, the MRU does not operate when USF or the campus clinic is closed.


Should I still call the MRU if I am unsure if I have a medical/traumatic injury that needs medical attention?

  • Yes, the MRU can respond to your location and assess if you need any further medical assistance. Remember that the MRU is an entirely free resource that is available to anyone on the USF-Tampa campus.