So you are interested in planning a rotation abroad? While this may seem like a daunting task being able to experience what it is like as a healthcare provider outside of the United States can be an extremely eye opening and enriching experience. As you take the next steps in exploring your options to do a rotation abroad feel free to reference these frequently asked questions as a resource and guide. We have compiled this list of frequently asked questions with the input of PCOM’s Clinical Education office to ensure the smoothest process for our students.
When do students typically fit in a rotation abroad? PCOM students typically plan to do a rotation abroad during the second half of their 4th year. Students will plan their abroad rotations during the time designated as elective rotations. It is up to students to figure out how to fit a rotation abroad into their schedule.
Does PCOM have an affiliation with any organizations that plan and coordinate rotation experiences? Yes, PCOM Global Health Initiative has an affiliation with Child Family Health International. The benefits of this affiliation are the application fee for their programs is waived for our students. Please reach out to the PCOM Global Additionally the Child Family Health International is an approved organization by the PCOM clinical education office. The clinical education office states the best way to get around extra questions or concerns is to plan your rotation abroad through an approved organization such as Child Family Health International.
What if I do not want to go through an approved organization? Can I organize a rotation with a family friend or other contact who is practicing medicine abroad? Yes you may organize a rotation abroad not through an approved organization. However, you will be required to submit more information to the clinical education office. The information that will be required is the name of the attending physician, if they are a board certified (DO/MD), website of the organization, goals and objectives of the program. It’s recommended that students apply earlier through the clinical education office for rotations not through a pre-approved organization.
When do I need to get approval from PCOM Clinical Education office? Before you will be able to travel abroad on your rotation you must submit the clerkship registration form to the clinical education department. You can find this form under the M3/M4 tab on Nucleus.The clinical education department requires that this form is submitted 1 month prior to the rotation. However, it’s recommended to submit the paperwork earlier to ensure you will receive approval for the rotation.
What do I need to submit to the PCOM Clinical Education office? Website of the organization (if you are going through an organization) Name of the attending physician Background information about the attending physician board certified (DO/MD) Contact information for the coordinator of the site or whoever manages the office
Overall, the clinical education committee recommends providing them with as much information as possible.
Where do students go? Students have participated in rotations abroad all over the world. As long as a site is approved by the clinical education office you can apply to perform your rotation there. PCOM Global Health Initiative is currently working on a database to provide to students summarizing where people have successfully participated in rotations.
In case you are interested in an international rotation which is not at a site approved by the PCOM Office of Clinical Education, please reach out to us ASAP to learn how to obtain approval for the site.
Who should I reach out to with questions about doing a rotation abroad? You can reach out to the PCOM Global Health Initiative for any questions you have about planning your rotation abroad. Please email the Clinical Education committee at [email protected].
How do I find funding for my rotation? There are funding opportunities through PCOM as well as outside scholarships. The Albert D'Alonzo, D.O. Memorial Student Award is open for applications in both the fall and spring. The PCOM Global Health Initiative is working to find as many resources as possible to provide to students. Please see the financial page of the GHI website.