Thinking about a career in medicine? Shadowing doctors can be a game-changer. Here's why:

• See what doctors REALLY do: Observe patient care, diagnose illnesses, and experience the ups and downs of the job.

• Find your perfect fit: Explore different specialties like cardiology or pediatrics to see which one excites you most.

• Stand out in med school apps: Show medical schools you're serious and have real-world experience, not just book smarts.

Shadowing isn't just watching - it's about confirming your passion. You'll get a real feel for medicine, solidify your goals, and build a strong base for your future as a doctor.

As a premed student, you know how important it is to get clinical experience. One of the best ways to do this is through shadowing opportunities. Scribe America offers premed students the chance to shadow physicians and learn about the day-to-day workings of a medical facility. Here's a look at the many benefits of participating in a shadowing program like Scribe America and ACMSS.

Gain Insight into the Realities of Medical Practice

As a premed student, it's important to have realistic expectations about what life as a physician will be like. While you may have some ideas based on what you've seen on TV or read in books, there's nothing quite like getting an up-close look at the day-to-day realities of medical practice.Shadowing opportunities offer you this glimpse into the life of a physician. You'll be able to see firsthand how they interact with patients, make diagnoses, and provide treatments. This insider knowledge can help you determine if a career in medicine is right for you.

How COVID-19 Altered Pre-Med Shadowing

For aspiring doctors, shadowing physicians has long been a cornerstone experience. It offers a firsthand look at the realities of the medical field, from patient interactions to daily routines. However, the COVID-19 pandemic threw a wrench into these traditional methods. Hospitals tightened restrictions, wary of introducing extra people into already strained environments.

So, how can pre-med students navigate this new landscape? Here's a breakdown of how COVID-19 has changed pre-med shadowing, along with some alternative strategies:

• Limited In-Person Opportunities: Many hospitals have halted in-person shadowing programs altogether. Even as restrictions ease, safety protocols may limit the number of observers allowed.

• Rise of Virtual Shadowing: The pandemic accelerated the adoption of virtual shadowing. Platforms like Zoom allow students to observe consultations and procedures remotely. While it lacks the in-person experience, it offers valuable insights and increased accessibility.

Making the Most of a Challenging Situation:

• Embrace Virtual Options: Explore online shadowing programs offered by hospitals, medical schools, or pre-med organizations.

• Seek Creative Alternatives: Consider virtual volunteering or informational interviews with healthcare professionals.

• Highlight Transferable Skills: Demonstrate your commitment to healthcare through research, clinical volunteering, or patient advocacy work.

• Focus on the Positive: Medical schools understand the challenges of the pandemic. Showcase your adaptability and initiative in finding alternative experiences.

By being resourceful and proactive, pre-med students can still gain valuable insights into the medical field despite the pandemic's disruptions. Remember, a strong application goes beyond shadowing hours. Emphasize your passion, well-rounded experiences, and unwavering commitment to a career in medicine.

Improve Your Communication Skills

Good communication skills are essential for any healthcare professional. As a future physician, you'll need to be able to clearly communicate your diagnosis and treatment plan to patients, as well as explain complex medical concepts in layman's terms. Shadowing physicians will give you the opportunity to observe how they communicate with patients and learn from their example. With practice, you'll develop your own communication style and learn how to effectively convey information to patients.

Gain Valuable Experience in a Medical Setting

In addition to learning about the day-to-day realities of medical practice, shadowing also gives you valuable experience working in a real medical setting. This experience can be helpful when it comes time to apply for residencies and fellowships. Program directors often look favorably on applicants who have previous experience working in a hospital or clinical setting. By completing a shadowing program like Scribe America, you'll be able to add this type of experience to your CV.

Finish Strong! Premed students who are looking for clinical experience should consider shadowing physicians through programs like ACMSS. These programs offer valuable insight into the realities of medical practice, provide an opportunity to improve communication skills, and give students valuable experience working in a medical setting. All of these factors can help strengthen your application when it comes time to apply for residencies and fellowships. have some ideas based on what you've seen on TV or read in books, there's nothing quite like getting an up-close look at the day-to-day realities of medical practice. Shadowing opportunities offer you this glimpse into the life of a physician. You'll be able to see firsthand how they interact with patients, make diagnoses, and provide treatments. This insider knowledge can help you determine if a career in medicine is right for you.

Impress Future Employers by completing a shadowing program like ACMSS or Scribe America, you'll not only gain valuable experience working in a medical setting—you'll also get credit for completing clinical hours!