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When it comes to clinical experience, you may hear it referred to as a variety of different things. Some may refer to it as an observership, externship, clerkship, elective, or rotation. But what is the difference between these terms and how can you determine what is considered clinical experience and what is not? In this blog post, we will discuss the various terms used for clinical experience and how you can determine what words correctly describe your experience, and how you can apply them to your ERAS application.
Not considered USCE
"Observership"
The meaning of "observership" is in the word itself - observe. In an observership, you are solely observing the preceptor or physician that you are training under. Therefore, you are not involved in any hands-on activities. Observerships may not count as US clinical experience for this reason. Typically, observerships are less valued by residency programs but there are some programs that may find them valuable.
"Shadowing"
A "shadowing" experience can be used interchangeably with the term observership. A shadowing experience is where you are following as an understudy to the preceptor to learn and observe their day-to-day roles and responsibilities. Because you are not involved in hands-on activities or direct patient care, this may not count as US clinical experience.
Considered USCE
"Externship"
An "externship" is vastly different than an observership. This term can be less clear as it can mean a variety of things. However, an externship is a clinical experience that takes place after graduation from medical school. This is typically a hands-on learning experience done under the supervision of a US physician and is, therefore, considered as US clinical experience.
"ClerkshiP"
This term typically refers to current medical students. "Clerkship", also referred to as core rotations or electives, is typically part of the medical school curriculum and counts towards educational credit. However, clerkships are done at hospitals that are affiliated with your medical school. Therefore, it is considered as US clinical experience.
"elective"
As mentioned in the paragraph about clerkships, the term "elective" has been used synonymously to describe a rotation that is done as part of the medical school curriculum. However, an elective is slightly different than a clerkship. While it is part of the medical school curriculum, it is an optional clinical experience that can be done outside of your institution's affiliation. if you are an international medical student and you choose to take an elective in the US, then you can consider it as US clinical experience in ERAS.
"Rotation"
The term "rotation" refers to a learning experience where the student or graduate learns under the supervision of a preceptor or physician. Core rotations are part of educational credit, as previously mentioned, but rotations through third parties or resources outside of your medical school can also be used towards gaining US clinical experience.
Why Us clinical experience is important for IMg and ims applicants
Developing Clinical Skills
An essential part of gaining US clinical experience is to refine and hone in on your clinical skills. This type of experience allows you to advance your skills for conducting physical exams, writing notes in the EMR, and adhering to treatment protocols. Having strong clinical skills in these areas are essential to adapting in the US healthcare system.
Familiarizing Yourself with the US Healthcare System
The American healthcare system, like other countries, has its own unique workflow and processes. These unique differences include various technologies, documentation practices, and communication standards. US clinical experience provides you insight into these practices and procedures, providing you with the tools to demonstrate to residency programs that you can navigate the healthcare system effectively.
Building a Network
One understated advantage of US clinical experience is the opportunity to build your network and establish professional relationships with practicing physicians, residents, faculty, and program directors. These connections can be invaluable as they can provide advocacy for your residency application, provide guidance, and even present you with future opportunities down the line.
Securing Letters of Recommendation
An essential part of the US residency application for IMGs is obtaining letters of recommendation. Participating in USCE allows you to work alongside physicians who can attest to your skills and character. They can vouch for your abilities within the US healthcare system, enhancing your overall candidacy. Additionally, many programs require a certain number of LORs to apply to their program and be considered for an interview.
Demonstrate Your Capabiity to Residency Programs
US Residency programs are looking for candidates who are adapted and familiar with the US medical system and can perform effectively. They want people who they feel will make good residents in their program. Through USCE, you can demonstrate your readiness and ability to handle the demands of residency with efficiency.
Enhance Your Chances of Matching
Year after year, statistics show that IMGs with USCE under their belt have a higher match rate than those who do not have such experience. This experience helps to distinguish your application in this highly competitive process, positioning you as a more competitive candidate.
Conclcusion
In conclusion, USCE acts as a pivotal step for international medical graduates and students towards securing a spot in US medical residency. It not only enhances your skills in the US medical system but also places you in a stronger position to match successfully.
MD2B Connect: US Clinical experience
Learn more about our US Clinical Experience programs for those interested in gaining US clinical experience. We offer over 160 US clinical experiences in 30+ specialties and over 20 cities across the United States. With preceptors who are caring mentors and our team who is dedicated to providing you with the best rotation experience possible, you can know you're in good hands when working with us.
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