Clinical rotations, also known as clinical clerkships, clinical experiences, clinical training or simply clinical, are a vital part of medical programmes. They involve medical students or aspiring doctors practising medicine under the supervision of experienced healthcare professionals.
During this phase, students have the opportunity to visit clinics and hospitals, actively participating in patient care, treatment and the overall healthcare process to gain practical knowledge. These rotations provide a unique chance to experience the daily life of a doctor before officially entering the medical profession.
Clinical rotations are essential for medical students as they transition from aspiring professionals to skilled doctors. These rotations, which include both core and elective options, are integral to the final two years of the MD Programme.
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Core rotations serve as the foundation of clinical education, allowing students to apply the knowledge gained in Preclinical Sciences within a clinical setting. Elective rotations play a crucial role in exploring various specialities, helping students confirm their interests and making informed decisions when applying for residencies. By choosing rotations from a diverse range of specialities related to core rotations, students gain valuable hands-on experience and insights.
The impact of doing rotations in teaching hospitals is immeasurable. Students learn the importance of patient-centred care and evidence-based medicine. While books teach medical skills, students truly master the bedside physical exam through daily practice. Having the opportunity to see and present patients, as well as write notes, places students ahead of their peers from around the world.
- A typical day at clinical rotations brings a sense of excitement for students working with fellow residents who in turn work with attending physicians:
- The day begins with reading up on assigned patients, conducting history and physical examinations, and reporting to the resident.
- Rounds are then conducted with the resident team to note any changes in patients, preparing to present them to the attending physician.
- Attending rounds follow, providing exposure, guidance and knowledge to all students.
- Each day brings new learning experiences, motivating the pursuit of further knowledge to become a better doctor.
- Finally, a lecture is given to keep everyone updated, recognising that the field of medicine is constantly evolving.
For Indian medical students, pursuing clinical rotations in the USA represents a significant milestone on their journey toward becoming practising doctors and achieving their American dream. These rotations provide invaluable hands-on experience in a diverse healthcare system, exposing students to advanced technologies, cutting-edge research and multidisciplinary approaches to patient care.
In addition to the clinical skills gained, the cultural exchange and exposure to different healthcare models foster a global perspective and enhance their adaptability to future challenges in a rapidly evolving field. The accumulation of these experiences holds immeasurable value for students as they progress toward residency in the United States.
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Source: Economic Times
