Shadowing and Observerships

Shadowing or Observerships can be an important introduction to different aspects of medicine. Medical students frequently request shadowing experiences to get a sense of orthopedic surgery and often as an introduction to orthopedic staff surgeons.

Typically two weeks in duration, the student spends time in the clinic and operating room to gain insight into the daily operations of an orthopedic surgeon. Shadowing experiences will not include patient contact, however students will have an opportunity to see interesting cases, ask and answer questions, and experience orthopedics up-close. Shadowing opportunities are typically arranged directly through physicians’ offices or the Academy.