What should I look for when I shadow?

[gpannu]

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Hi,

I would like to thank all the MD's and residents that have given me some insight in to a career in medicine.

I have a quick question. I planned on shadowing a GP, a neurosphys and an internal medicine resident this summer. Since i've never shadowed before I wanted to know what can I expect? And what should I do in order to learn as much as possible? Finally, since i've have a lot of time I wanted to know what is a reasonable time commitment for shadowing a doctor. Will Doctors let you shadow for more than a month, week etc....

Thanks kindly

 

[uclakid]

good question. I was wondering the same things.
Hope someone can tell us!

 

[St. James]

It's great that you're setting up a variety of experiences. Shadowing is a pretty open term and you'll have to set the time with the individual doctor you're shadowing. It can range anywhere from a day to an entire summer to an entire year of Saturday mornnings. Depending on the field, you could go on rounds, observe procedures, see clinic patients, etc. For surgery, you may be able to check out the path lab when specimens are sent down from the OR, etc.

By shadowing a doc, you're obviously trying to learn more about what's done in that field of medicine. You'll also be trying to get a feel for the things you don't like or like, but are not trying to make a final decision about anything (that'll come in med school and residency). Surgery or Medicine? Adult or Peds? Hospital or outpatient? Academic or Community, etc. Tap your doc's brain for their views on medicine, their field, etc. File that info. away, but you should realize that you're only getting one view/experience in a particular field.

No matter how long you shadow, be respectful, show up on time, be helpful, look nice, etc. If you enjoy your experience, feel free to ask for a rec if you think they have a good sense of your goals and you as a person. ALSO, if you have a really exciting day or patient experience, write it down so you'll have some gems for your personal statement.