Pre-Medical Observer Program

Program Structure

Scope
Importantly, this is an observational role only. Individuals participating in the Pre-Medical Observer Program do not provide patient care, perform clinical tasks, or engage in any work of any nature during their time in the program.

Program Duration
The program is 6 weeks in length, with start and end dates determined jointly by the observer and supervising physician/dentist.

Participating Divisions
Shadowing opportunities are offered within select divisions based on availability. Please review the list of participating divisions prior to applying.

Scheduling
Shadowing schedules vary by division. Depending on the supervising physician’s or dentist’s availability, shadowing may occur on weekdays, weekends, or both.

Program Capacity
The program accommodates a maximum of 10 active observers at any given time.

Application Timing
Individuals are encouraged to apply well in advance, as the application and onboarding process can take up to four (4) weeks to complete.

This Program Is Not…

For academic credit
Participation cannot be used to fulfill academic credit requirements at any institution.

An internship
This is an observational experience only — it is not a formal internship position.

GME Credit
The program does not count toward Graduate Medical Education (GME) credit of any kind.

Who Is Eligible?

Process Overview

1. Apply – Submit application.
2. Review – RCH-OC reviews application.
3. Onboarding – If accepted, applicant completes required education modules and forms.
4. Orientation – Observer attends mandatory in-person orientation.
5. Start Date – Begin shadowing period.

Application Process

How Do I Apply?
To apply to the Pre-Medical Observer Program, please complete the online application.

Applicant Requirements
Applicants will be asked to identify three (3) physicians or dentists, along with their respective divisions, they are interested in shadowing.

Application Review & Timeline
Submitted applications will undergo a review process. Please allow 7–10 business days for application review and notification.

Acceptance Notification
If your application is accepted and a placement can be arranged with a physician or dentist, you will receive an email confirming your acceptance into the program.

Placement Disclaimer
Placement is not guaranteed and is contingent upon physician/dentist availability at the time of review.

Onboarding Process for Accepted Applicants

Step 1 – Complete Required Education

Review all required education modules, achieve a passing score on each post-test, and sign all required onboarding forms.

Step 2 – Submit Health Documentation

Submit required documentation to the RCH-OC Health Office and receive confirmation that all applicable health requirements have been met. See the health requirements below.

Step 3 – Background Check or Parental Consent

Complete and pass a background check if 18 years of age or older or complete the Parental Consent and Liability form if under 18 years of age.

Step 4 – Receive Onboarding Confirmation

Receive a confirmation email from RCH-OC Academic Affairs indicating that onboarding is complete and shadowing sessions may be scheduled with the supervising physician or dentist.

Health Clearance Requirements

Required Records

• Varicella (Chickenpox)
  Proof of 2 vaccinations administered at least 4 weeks apart, or positive titer showing immunity.
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
  Proof of 2 vaccinations administered at least 4 weeks apart, or positive titers showing immunity.
• Tdap
  Proof of vaccination administered within the past 10 years is required.
• Seasonal Influenza Vaccine (if applicable)
  Required between October–March, or until the CDC announces the seasonal flu vaccine is no longer required.

TB Screening  (Choose One – PPD or QuantiFERON)

• PPD (Tuberculin Skin Test)
  Must be completed within 12 months of the anticipated observation start date.
• QuantiFERON-TB Gold Blood Test
  Must be completed within 2 months of the anticipated observation start date.
• Chest X-Ray (if applicable)
  Required only for individuals with a history of a positive TB test. Results must be within 12 months of the anticipated observation start date.

Participating Divisions

Observers are not permitted in the Divisions of Psychiatry and Child Protection.

Participating Locations

• CHOC Hospital: 1201 W. La Veta Ave. Orange, CA 92868
• CHOC West Clinic: 1201 W. La Veta Ave. Orange, CA 92868
• Commerce Tower: 505 S. Main St. Orange, CA 92868
• Centrum North: 1120 W. La Veta Ave. Orange, CA 92868
• Southwest Tower: 555 S. Main St. Orange, CA 92868
• CHOC Primary Care Clinic: 3745 W. Chapman Ave. Suite 100 Orange, CA 92868
• CHOC Clinic, Santa Ana (at the Boys & Girls Club): 1000 W. Highland Ave. Santa Ana, CA 92703
• CHOC Health Center, Garden Grove: 10602 Chapman Ave. Suite 100 Garden Grove, CA 92840
• Clinica CHOC Para Niños: 406 S. Main St. Santa Ana, CA 92701

Any location not listed above is ineligible to host observers through the Pre-Medical Observer Program.