An observership program may be established by a medical association or interested group of physicians to assist international medical graduates (IMGs) who wish to observe clinical practice in a U.S. setting.
These programs should acculturate international medical graduates to medical practices in the U.S. and help prepare them for residency. Programs typically last from two to four weeks per rotation or specialty. Observers can rotate among several specialties to create a longer experience.
Observership programs are not intended to be organized for profit. Physicians in each specialty should volunteer their time and efforts.
Actual costs (administrative fees, immunizations, etc.) may be itemized and paid for by the observer.
Guidelines for creating an observership
The advice contained in the observership guidelines (DOC) is designed to be used as a template for physicians and medical associations seeking to establish an observership program.
The guidelines packet includes:
- Learning objectives for the observership: Monitor how a physician interacts with patients.
- Eligibility and responsibilities of physician preceptors: A licensed, preferably board-certified physician who volunteers to be a preceptor for an agreed upon period of time.
- Eligibility of observers: Submission of USMLE transcript, Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) Status Report or ECFMG Certificate.
- Sample letter templates
- Application forms for physician preceptors and observers
- Evaluation forms
Permission from the hospital and/or department chair of the physician should be obtained before beginning the observership program.
Because each medical licensing jurisdiction has its own regulations, program organizers should check with their local boards to see if there are restrictions on, or requirements for medical observerships in their state or territory.
The AMA is not an oversight or accreditation entity. These guidelines are for informational purposes only.
