Recent data indicates there is an increase in the number of UF students transported to the hospital for alcohol-related emergencies.
This semester, 13 students have been transported for alcohol-related emergencies so far, according to Maureen Miller, the coordinator for alcohol and other drug prevention at GatorWell Health Promotion Services. Last year, only about nine students had been admitted during the fall semester.
Maj. Brad Barber, UPD public information officer, said the officials still don't know for sure what factors are contributing to this trend.
"How the increase is related to the Medical Amnesty Policy or other contributing factors has yet to be determined," he said.
The Medical Amnesty Policy waives disciplinary action under certain conditions to ensure that students call medical support during alcohol, drug or other health emergencies.
Of the 13 students transported to the hospital, five qualified for medical amnesty, according to Miller.
The policy was officially instituted at the university in April but has been in practice unofficially for some time.
"Safety is the top priority for the university," Miller said. "There were several close situations of students not getting the help they needed."
At UF the protocol applies only to the UF Student Code of Conduct, Housing & Residence Education's Community Standards and Greek Life policies. Police may enforce laws within their jurisdictions under the state and federal law.
Students considered by the Dean of Students Office as "under the policy" are required to meet with counselors from GatorWell for a one-hour educational seminar, Miller said.
History sophomore Charlie Vilmar, 19, is aware of the policy but wouldn't call the police unless absolutely necessary.
"I mean, if it's a dire situation I would go to the hospital," Vilmar said. "But otherwise, I keep track of my friends, and they keep track of themselves."
With the upcoming football game on Saturday against Alabama, UPD said this increased trend of alcohol-related transports will not affect its policy.
"Gameday rules have not changed," Barber said. "We remain consistently focused on safety and security operations at each game."
