Everything About Clinical Attachments and Observerships in the USA Including 20 Examples

Securing Clinical Attachments and Observerships in the United States for International Doctors

How to Search for Clinical Attachments or Observerships
Online Research

• Hospital Websites: Many hospitals in the U.S. have dedicated sections for international medical graduates (IMGs). Check these sections for information on clinical attachments and observership programs.
• Professional Networks: Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals working in U.S. healthcare. Join groups and forums for IMGs to get insider information and advice on securing placements.
• Medical Recruitment Agencies: Some agencies specialize in helping doctors find clinical attachments. They can guide you through the process and provide contacts within U.S. hospitals.
• Medical Schools and Universities: Contact the postgraduate departments of U.S. medical schools. These institutions often have partnerships with hospitals that offer observerships.

Direct Applications

• Contact Hospital Departments: Identify the department you are interested in and reach out directly. Send an email to the department head or clinical lead expressing your interest in a clinical attachment.
• Professional Societies: Organizations like the American Medical Association (AMA) and various specialty-specific societies often have resources for international doctors, including lists of hospitals that offer observerships.

Networking

• Conferences and Workshops: Attend medical conferences and workshops in the U.S. These events are excellent opportunities to meet consultants and clinicians who might offer or recommend observerships.
• Word of Mouth: Use your personal and professional network. Colleagues who have undergone similar processes can provide valuable recommendations and introductions.

Examples of U.S. Hospitals Offering Clinical Attachments or Observerships
Cleveland Clinic

• Location: Cleveland, Ohio
• Details: Offers observerships in various specialties, including cardiology, neurology, and oncology. The clinic provides a structured program where observers can attend ward rounds, clinics, and departmental meetings.
• Application Process: Contact the Medical Education Department at [email protected] with a detailed CV, cover letter, and proof of medical credentials.

University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)

• Location: San Francisco, California
• Details: Offers observerships in a variety of specialties, including renal medicine, infectious diseases, and transplantation. Observers can attend clinics, participate in ward rounds, and join teaching sessions.
• Application Process: Contact the Postgraduate Medical Education Department at [email protected] with a detailed CV and a statement of interest.

University of Pennsylvania Health System (Penn Medicine)

• Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Details: Offers a variety of observerships in specialties such as dermatology, rheumatology, and geriatrics. Observers are encouraged to engage in clinical practice, attend teaching sessions, and participate in patient care.
• Application Process: Contact the hospital’s clinical education team at [email protected] with a CV, a cover letter, and two professional references.

Baylor College of Medicine

• Location: Houston, Texas
• Details: Specializes in cardiology and respiratory medicine. Offers structured observerships where participants can observe advanced procedures and participate in clinical research projects.
• Application Process: Applications are made through the college’s educational office. Contact them at [email protected] with a CV, a personal statement, and proof of medical qualifications.

University of Chicago Medicine

• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Details: Offers observerships in various specialties, including emergency medicine, neurology, and pediatrics. The hospital is known for its comprehensive education programs and supportive environment.
• Application Process: Interested candidates should contact the Medical Education Department at [email protected] with a CV and a statement of interest.

Northwestern Medicine

• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Details: Provides clinical attachments in a wide range of medical fields, including cardiology, gastroenterology, and oncology. The hospital emphasizes hands-on learning and participation in clinical activities.
• Application Process: Applications can be made through the hospital’s education and training portal. Contact them at [email protected] with a detailed CV, reference letters, and proof of medical qualifications.

Emory Healthcare

• Location: Atlanta, Georgia
• Details: Offers observerships in specialties such as nephrology, endocrinology, and hematology. Observers are encouraged to participate in ward rounds, clinics, and teaching sessions.
• Application Process: Prospective observers must contact the Clinical Education Department at [email protected]. The application should include a CV, a personal statement, and at least two professional references.

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

• Location: Los Angeles, California
• Details: This hospital offers observerships in diverse specialties including dermatology, infectious diseases, and emergency medicine. Observers can attend clinical meetings and multidisciplinary team discussions.
• Application Process: Applications can be submitted through the hospital’s postgraduate medical education office. Contact them at [email protected] with a CV, cover letter, and proof of medical credentials.

University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

• Location: Dallas, Texas
• Details: Known for its strong emphasis on teaching and research, the medical center offers clinical attachments in multiple specialties such as neurosurgery, urology, and respiratory medicine. Observers can engage in clinical activities and educational sessions.
• Application Process: Contact the medical center’s education department at [email protected] with a CV, cover letter, and proof of medical qualifications.

Duke University Hospital

• Location: Durham, North Carolina
• Details: Offers observerships in specialties such as general surgery, cardiology, and endocrinology. The hospital provides a comprehensive learning experience with opportunities to attend clinics, ward rounds, and educational meetings.
• Application Process: Prospective observers should contact the Medical Education Department at [email protected] with a detailed CV, statement of interest, and two professional references.

University of Washington Medical Center

• Location: Seattle, Washington
• Details: Offers clinical attachments in specialties such as orthopaedics, neurology, and oncology. Observers can participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, ward rounds, and clinical teaching sessions.
• Application Process: Applications are accepted through the hospital’s postgraduate education office. Contact them at [email protected] with a CV, cover letter, and proof of medical credentials.

Mount Sinai Hospital

• Location: New York City, New York
• Details: Provides observerships in various medical fields, including cardiovascular medicine, haematology, and emergency medicine. Observers have access to state-of-the-art facilities and are encouraged to engage in clinical activities and research discussions.
• Application Process: Contact the Medical Education Department at [email protected] with a detailed CV, a cover letter explaining your interest, and two letters of recommendation.

University of Southern California (USC) Keck School of Medicine

• Location: Los Angeles, California
• Details: Offers observerships in numerous specialties such as oncology, neurology, and surgery. Observers can attend clinical rounds, grand rounds, and participate in teaching sessions.
• Application Process: Applications can be made through the school’s education department. Contact them at [email protected] with a CV, personal statement, and proof of medical qualifications.

University of Michigan Health System

• Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
• Details: Offers clinical attachments in various specialties, including cardiology, oncology, and surgery. Observers have the chance to attend clinical rounds and multidisciplinary team meetings.
• Application Process: Contact the Medical Education Department at [email protected] with a detailed CV and a cover letter explaining your interest in the program.

Benefits of Clinical Attachment or Observership

• Exposure to U.S. Healthcare System: Gain firsthand experience of the U.S. medical system, including patient management and hospital operations.
• Networking Opportunities: Build relationships with U.S. healthcare professionals, which can be beneficial for future career opportunities and references.
• Enhancing Clinical Skills: Observe advanced medical procedures and treatments, improving your own clinical knowledge and skills.
• Boosting Your CV: A clinical attachment or observership in a reputable U.S. hospital adds significant value to your CV, demonstrating international experience and commitment to professional development.
• Preparation for USMLE: Observerships provide a better understanding of the clinical environment in the U.S., which can be beneficial for those preparing for the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).

How to Get the Most Benefit from Your Time in the Hospital

• Be Proactive: Take initiative by asking questions and showing interest in all clinical activities.
• Network: Build relationships with attending physicians, residents, and other healthcare professionals. Attend all social and professional gatherings.
• Participate Actively: Attend all clinical rounds, teaching sessions, and departmental meetings. Take notes and review them regularly.
• Seek Feedback: Regularly ask for feedback on your performance and areas where you can improve.
• Reflect and Learn: Reflect on your daily experiences and identify areas for improvement and learning.
• Document Your Experience: Keep a detailed log of your activities and experiences. This can be useful for future applications and interviews.

This guide is designed to help international doctors navigate the process of securing and making the most of clinical attachments and observerships in the U.S. By following these steps and utilizing the provided resources, you can enhance your clinical skills and significantly boost your career prospects in the United States.