You’ve probably heard the term “clinical experience” thrown around a ton as you prepare to apply to medical school. These opportunities can really make your application stand out, but figuring out what counts and doesn’t count as clinical experience can be a bit confusing.
I’ll break down what exact activities qualify as clinical experience to help you make informed choices about where to track them down. Plus, I’ll share tips on how to highlight each of these clinical experiences in your application so you can demonstrate your passion for the medical field and commitment to becoming a doctor.
This post is all about answering what counts as clinical experience.
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Find Out What Counts as Clinical Experience
What Actually Counts as Clinical Experience?
Clinical experience involves hands-on, direct interaction with patients, healthcare providers, and healthcare environments. This includes activities like shadowing physicians, volunteering at hospitals or clinics, and more. Basically, ask yourself if it gives you a real, in-person taste of what it’s like to work in the healthcare field. If it does, then you can feel confident about acquiring hours and listing it as clinical experience on your medical school application.
However, sometimes it’s not always so clear to make this distinction. For example, what about being a caregiver? It doesn’t involve a hospital, but it is direct patient care – does that count? Keep reading to explore whether or not specific opportunities qualify as a type of clinical experience.
Does Shadowing Count as Clinical Experience?
Absolutely! Shadowing physicians is a fantastic way to gain insight into what it’s really like to be a doctor. You get a front-row seat to patient-physician interactions and see how diagnoses are made. You will also witness the thought process behind treatment plans. It’s an eye-opening experience that gives you a close look at the day-to-day responsibilities of healthcare providers. Nevertheless, I would recommend to complete around 40 hours of shadowing but then look for more hands-on clinical experiences where you go beyond observing and can actually get involved yourself.
What about virtual shadowing? A lot of medical schools consider virtual shadowing as part of your general clinical shadowing requirements. Although it can give you a lot of flexibility and might seem like the easier option, keep in mind that it doesn’t allow you to get as exposed to a healthcare setting as any in-person opportunity. You might have less possibilities for building connections and miss out on the full experience. I personally would call 30+ doctors first and see if you can find a local gig for your shadowing instead.
Follow these tips to make the most of your shadowing experience:
- Keep track of the number of hours you spend shadowing.
- Journal and reflect on what you observed during your shadowing experiences. So you can refer to it in your essays and during an interview. Include what you learned and how it impacted your understanding of medicine.
- Don’t hesitate to ask questions, if you get the opportunity! This could be about their daily life as a physician or personal career choices you are curious about.
- Always ask for a letter of recommendation. Especially if you and the doctor had a good connection, they are often willing to do so.
How About Working as a Medical Assistant or EMT for Clinical Experience?
This hands-on work definitely counts as clinical experience! Personally, I worked as an EMT while applying to medical school, and it was an incredible experience. It gave me hands-on patient care experience. This also taught me the ins and outs of providing quality care in a pre-hospital setting.
As an EMT, you’ll be on the front lines of emergency medical care, and responding to calls. Providing critical treatments, and working in fast-paced environments where every second counts. It’s a challenging yet immensely rewarding role that will help you develop practical skills. You will gain firsthand experience in emergency medicine.
While it may not involve the high-intensity situations of an EMT, being a Medical Assistant (MA) allows you to work closely with patients. You will also perform important tasks like drawing blood, checking vitals, and assisting in examinations. You could be working in hospitals, doctor’s offices, or clinics, gaining valuable experience in a controlled healthcare setting.
For many MA and all EMT positions you will be required to get a certification. This demonstrates that you have the necessary skills to excel in the role.
If you can’t find local training options nearby, they don’t ever line up with your schedule or you simply want to speed up the process in your own time, I can highly recommend checking out Advanced eClinical Training (ACT). You can actually get certified in as little as 8 weeks with their nationally accredited online program (or take longer, it is completely self paced).
Here is what Ally White (one of our Road to Acceptance students) said about ACT after completing their Medical Assistant Certification program over winter break:
“It was amazing! I was able to work on it when I wanted to and complete the course in 6 weeks. While the upfront cost is a lot, it will make it so much easier to gain clinical experience. I was able to make it back in just 1 month of working as an MA. I now have a full time job that I love and will receive many letters of recommendation from doctors I work with for medical school. Plus I am able to make a good wage so I can save for all the costs of medical school!”
If you want to save a few extra bucks, use code “MAGGIE100” to get $100 off your enrollment.
Would an EMT Training Count Towards Your Clinical Experience?
If we are just talking about the training to get certified as an EMT or Medical Assistant, this will likely not count as clinical experience.
Yes, the training does not only consist of studying things like anatomy and physiology in the classroom, but there are also hands-on portions of the training where you get to practice how to take vital signs and do certain medical procedures. Nevertheless, this hands-on component usually uses simulated patients and does not yet expose you to a real health-care setting.
Keep in mind though that MA and EMT trainings can include the opportunity to complete an externship after you’ve finished the main part of your training. This would after all count as clinical experience. It will also give you valuable experience, before even starting to apply to specific jobs.
Bonus tip: If you are looking to become an MA, Advanced eClinical Training includes an optional but guaranteed 6-week externship after you’ve completed their training. This way, you know right from the start that you won’t miss out on that vital hands-on experience before confidently diving into your first job as an MA.
Does Scribing Count as Clinical Experience?
Yes, as a medical scribe, you’re right in the action, and soaking up all that medical terminology. You are witnessing firsthand how patient documentation plays a crucial role in healthcare. You get a front-row seat to patient interactions. Observing the ins and outs of how healthcare providers navigate their daily routines. This experience can give you a solid foundation and deeper insight into how clinical practices operate.
Showcase this valuable experience in your essays. Link your experience as a medical scribe to your passion for medicine. Explain how this role solidified your desire to pursue a career in healthcare and how it shaped your future goals. Give any specific skills you gained during your time in this role.
Would Working as a Pharmacy Technician be Considered Clinical Experience?
It definitely does! You can work as a pharmacy technician in either retail or in a hospital. The hospital setting can be particularly beneficial. It exposes you to the environment you’ll encounter as a medical student and resident.
As a pharmacy technician, you’ll gain valuable insights into different medications used to treat various illnesses. Take note that these are all under the guidance of pharmacists. This experience will give you a hands-on understanding of how medications are dispensed and managed. This also provides exposure to patient care and healthcare team dynamics.
Keep in mind though that working as a pharmacy technician would not count if you were working exclusively in the supply room. So it has to involve some customer interaction to be considered clinical experience.
Does Clinical Research Count as Clinical Experience?
Here’s an “it depends” kind of situation. Look closely at your roles and responsibilities. To help you decide whether you should categorize it under clinical experience or, simply, as research experience. I’d place emphasis on whether you actively were involved in patient interactions, such as taking histories or collecting samples as part of the research. If the answer is yes, voilà – that can definitely be considered clinical experience.
On your medical school application, clearly outline what you did during your role in clinical research. Did you interact directly with patients, assist in medical procedures, or collaborate with healthcare professionals? Be sure to showcase the skills you gained and the impact you made during your time in this role. This will help admissions committees understand the depth of your clinical experience. They will also understand how it has prepared you for a future in medicine.
Volunteering in a Hospital – Suitable for Clinical Experience?
Hospital volunteering is a fantastic way to get hands-on experience in a clinical setting. Keep in mind though that not all types of hospital volunteering would count as clinical experience. Let me share some examples:
Great clinical experience: If you’re assisting nurses, comforting patients, working in waiting rooms this gives you direct patient contact and such meaningful experiences as a pre-med. These opportunities provide a comprehensive look at the medical field. Giving you a glimpse into different specialties and patient care dynamics.
Still valuable, but not ideal: If you are simply taking care of administrative tasks or data analysis in a hospital setting (like stocking supply rooms or delivering clean linens), I wouldn’t count this as clinical experience. Even though you might get a real-life view into a healthcare environment, in this case you don’t actually get to engage in or observe direct patient interactions.
Remember, medical schools are looking for applicants who have the academic knowledge. They also consider practical experience to succeed in the demanding field of healthcare. So, when you write about or discuss in an interview your hospital volunteering, focus on your commitment to making a difference in the lives of others, Emphasize how these experiences have shaped your desire to pursue a career in medicine. Also, explain how you’ve developed key attributes like empathy, teamwork, and problem-solving.
What Other Volunteering Options to Gain Clinical Experience?
Well, that depends on what type of volunteering you plan on doing. While offering up your free time for tutoring or working with the elderly certainly has its value and importance, it typically isn’t considered clinical experience.
To gain clinical experience, consider volunteering at a hospital (as described above). You can also volunteer at a local clinic, especially one in an underserved community. This hands-on opportunity provides you with valuable insights into grassroots healthcare. You’ll be able to engage directly with patients, offering care and support across a range of health services. You’ll also gain a deeper understanding of community health needs and how social factors can influence healthcare delivery.
If you are volunteering in a hospice setting, you will probably be in contact with more people than you have in any other setting. Most hospice patients have family surrounding them 24/7 and have questions too. These family members have also probably had to help the patient with cleaning, helping into the bath, making food etc. As a volunteer you can take the stress off of the family so they can spend time with their loved one. Also, you can help the family come to terms with the unfortunate outcome. Therefore hospice volunteering definitely counts as clinical experience.
This rewarding experience can help shape your perspective on healthcare and strengthen your medical school application. Make sure to clearly outline the details of your volunteer work. Include the name of the clinic or organization where you volunteered. Mention the role you played, the responsibilities you had, and the skills you developed.
On the other hand, volunteering in public outreach campaigns or similar educational events (like March of Dimes or Red Cross fundraisers) do not count as clinical experience. It’s because they don’t expose you to direct patient care.
Would Working as an CNA be Considered Clinical Experience?
Being a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) absolutely qualifies as clinical experience for medical school. As a CNA, you’ll gain valuable hands-on experience. This includes assisting patients with their daily activities, providing basic care, and monitoring vital signs. These duties will give you a firsthand look at patient care. It will also help you develop essential skills for a future career in medicine.
To become a CNA, you’ll need to complete a state certification course and pass a licensing exam. However, it’s certainly worth the effort due to the flexibility it offers. Many CNA positions have shift options that can work around your schedule as a pre-medical student. This will allow you to balance work and academics effectively.
Highlight your CNA experience on your medical school application. Do this by emphasizing the specific skills and responsibilities you had in your role. Additionally, consider including any notable achievements or experiences you had as a CNA. Examples are stories where you went above and beyond in patient care. If applicable, mention how you took on leadership roles in your workplace, which admissions committees love to see.
Does Behavior Technician Count as Clinical Experience?
Yes, working as a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) provides worthwhile clinical experience. BHTs collaborate with healthcare professionals to provide mental health services to patients with behavioral issues, mental illnesses, and developmental disabilities.
As a BHT, you’ll be involved in carrying out treatment plans, offering emotional support and observing patient behavior. Another tasks are ensuring a safe environment, and assisting with everyday activities. However, if you’re considering taking on this position to gain clinical experience, be aware that this job can be physically demanding. Especially when dealing with agitated patients who may exhibit violent behavior.
While certification as a Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT) may not always be required, completing the 40-hour training and becoming certified can level up your credentials. Organizations like the Autism Partnership Foundation (APF) offers a FREE 40-hour RBT training program that aligns with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) requirements.
Your clinical experience as a Behavior Technician can boost your medical school application. As you describe your time as a BHT, focus on key aspects such as your role in treatment plans. Highlight patient interactions, observations, and the impact of your work on patient well-being. Clearly list the additional training or certifications you’ve obtained. Include RBT certification, to showcase your dedication to the field.
What About Optometric Technician Jobs to Gain Clinical Experience?
Yes, this definitely counts as clinical experience! As an optometric technician, you’ll gain valuable experience in a clinical setting where you’ll work directly with patients, assist with eye exams, and learn about various eye conditions and treatments. All of this hands-on experience can be a valuable asset when applying to medical school.
Does Being a Caregiver Count as Clinical Experience?
Yes, it counts as clinical experience for medical school, even if it’s for someone in your family! According to the AAMC, taking care of an ill family member can give you a deep understanding of the challenges patients may encounter while dealing with chronic illnesses.
As a caregiver, you may have faced issues such as the financial burden of getting medication, the importance of proper nutrition for overall health, and the struggles of managing and attending medical appointments. The empathy and insight gained from this experience can be invaluable in your journey to becoming a healthcare professional.
When you apply to medical school, share the skills and lessons you’ve learned. Admissions committees appreciate applicants who have hands-on experience with patients, and being a caregiver is a testament to your commitment to serving others in times of need. So, describe how this experience has shaped your understanding of patient care and healthcare systems. You could also mention specific examples or anecdotes that demonstrate your compassion, resilience, and dedication to helping others.
Does Crisis Text Line Count as Clinical Experience?
Maybe, but make sure you don’t rely on it for the bulk of the hours you list as clinical experience. While volunteering with Crisis Text Line can definitely provide you with valuable insights and help you develop competencies that can benefit your future interactions with patients, it’s not the same as interacting with individuals face-to-face or over the phone.
If you choose to classify Crisis Text Line as clinical experience, clearly explain why you believe it has helped to prepare you for your medical journey. Remember, the way you categorize and present your experiences matters, so be prepared to justify your choices.
How Do You Decide What’s Clinical Experience Vs. What’s Not?
When you apply to medical school using AMCAS, you can include up to 15 job-related or extracurricular experiences that demonstrate why you’re a great fit for medical school. Of the 19 different categories known as Experience Types, you can only choose one category per experience, so choose wisely.
For the types “Community Service/Volunteer” as well as “Paid Employment” there are two options available either for clinical or non-clinical activities.
- Clinical experience focuses on hands-on patient care or observing healthcare in action. It gives you a firsthand look at the medical field and what it’s like to work in a healthcare setting.
- Non-clinical experiences, like working in medical administration, conducting research in a lab, or participating in public health initiatives, are still valuable but don’t involve direct patient care.
Having a mix of clinical and non-clinical experiences for these categories helps create a well-rounded application. However, keep non-clinical experiences to a minimum since they don’t provide the same depth of insight into patient care as clinical experiences. Instead, focus on clinical experience that demonstrates your passion for patient care, displays your diverse skills, and proves your dedication and commitment to the medical field.
You have no clue on how to make the most out of your EC and work descriptions for your upcoming primary application? I share hands-on tips for this (plus lots of examples) in my Free Premed Workshop. So that you can move away from generic job descriptions and use those precious characters to actually showcase your skills and how you used them in real-life settings.
You’ll also discover all those common mistakes to avoid when applying to medical school to maximize your chances of acceptance!
Why Is It Important to Gain Clinical Experience That Counts?
Clinical experience looks impressive on your application because it shows that you have a solid understanding of what it truly means to be a healthcare provider. Remember that admissions committees value quality hands-on experience that includes directly interacting with patients in a healthcare setting.
Even more importantly, it also gives you a sneak peek into the real world of healthcare and allows you to see if a career in medicine is truly the right path for you. By shadowing healthcare professionals, interacting with patients, and witnessing medical procedures firsthand, you’ll gain insights that will shape your understanding of the medical field and help you make informed decisions about your future career path.
So, my advice to you is to get out there, explore different clinical settings, and soak up as much knowledge and experience as you can! And if you’re wondering how many hours you need, while there’s no specific requirement, aiming for about 100 to 150 hours is a good goal. Just make sure the hours you put in give you high-quality experiences that add value to your journey in the medical field.