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10 Ways to Find Clinical Experience Opportunities

10 Ways to Find Clinical Experience Opportunities

Finding clinical experience opportunities for pre-Physician Assistant (PA) students is crucial for building a strong application and gaining valuable insights into the field of healthcare. MyPAbox helps you manage and track all your experience hours in one place keeping you organized. Here are some steps to help you find these opportunities:

1. Contact Local Healthcare Facilities:

  • Reach out to hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers in your area.
  • Contact their volunteer or human resources departments to inquire about volunteer or entry-level positions.
  • Express your interest in gaining clinical experience and explain your goal of becoming a PA. This personal touch can make a positive impression.

2. Explore Healthcare Nonprofits:

  • Look for nonprofit organizations that provide healthcare services to underserved communities. These organizations often welcome volunteers and interns to assist with patient care and community outreach.

3. Check with Academic Institutions:

  • Contact local colleges, universities, and medical schools. Some of these institutions may have programs or research opportunities where you can gain clinical exposure.  If you are currently attending a college or university, visit the career services office. They may have resources and connections to help you find clinical experience opportunities.

4. Network with Healthcare Professionals:

  • Attend healthcare-related events, conferences, and seminars in your area. Networking with healthcare professionals, including PAs, can lead to shadowing or clinical experience opportunities.

5. Online Job Boards, PA forums, Groups, and Websites:

  • Use job search websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor to search for clinical or healthcare-related positions in your area. Filter your searches to find entry-level or volunteer roles.
  • Join online forums or social media groups dedicated to aspiring PAs. Members often share information about clinical opportunities and experiences.

6. Volunteer Organizations:

  • Explore volunteer organizations that focus on healthcare initiatives, such as medical mission trips, disaster relief, or health education. These experiences can be fulfilling and provide clinical exposure.

7. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Medical Assistant (MA) Training:

  • Consider enrolling in a CNA or MA program, which typically includes clinical training. Completing such a program can enhance your qualifications and provide hands-on experience.

8. Healthcare Internships:

  • Some healthcare facilities offer internship programs for pre-PA students. Research local hospitals or medical centers to see if they have structured internship opportunities.
  • Community health organizations often seek volunteers or interns to assist with public health initiatives and community outreach programs.

9. Shadowing PAs:

  • Contact local PAs and ask if you can shadow them. Shadowing experiences can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of PAs.

10. Research Assistant Positions:

  • Look for research assistant positions in medical studies, clinical trials, or healthcare research projects. Research experience can be beneficial in addition to direct patient care.

Remember to prepare a professional resume and cover letter when applying for clinical experience positions. Highlight your motivation and commitment to pursuing a career as a PA. Additionally, keep in mind that some clinical experience positions may require background checks or immunization records, so be prepared to provide the necessary documentation. Persistence and proactive networking can go a long way in securing clinical experience opportunities that will benefit your future PA career.

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