I am interested in pursuing careers related to the medical field, so I want to familiarize myself with a physician's work environment, and have a mentor to consult regarding any questions I have. Hence I want to shadow a physician (preferable Mental Health or Nutrition). I don't mind even if it's online... as long as it's legit...
Hi @flora!
Awesome question, I have the same desires as you and I'm pretty well versed in this area, so I hope I can be of aid.
If you are a high school student, then it may be hard to find shadowing jobs due to HIPAA laws and your age, but it still can be done depending on the hospital and their rules. Patients may also not want a teenage hearing their personal health information. Also, most hospitals are still taking COVID-19 seriously, so they may not allow any shadowing. I'm not saying this to deter you from participating, just 'mentally preparing' you if you get denied or you can't find a hospital or office that will allow you to shadow.
First, you can try to go to your guidance counselor and asking them about shadowing a specific type of doctor or any doctor. They may have a list of local contacts that you can then contact and attempt to ask. Also, you can ask your own friends, family, or doctor for shadowing advice or if your doctor will allow you to shadow.
If you want to shadow during a specific break, you'll have to contact them weeks before the time. Doctors have to move around their schedule in order to let someone shadow them. Try emailing the doctor - give them your age, grade, school you are enrolled in, the specific study you want to shadow, etc.
If you are looking for a specific program, you can search "shadowing opportunities for high school students near me" and you can see where you can possibly shadow locally. I found this site that could be of use, depending on where you live. https://blog.prepscholar.com/medical-programs-for-high-school-students
This site also provided some key info that you may want to know. Some of these rules only apply to the specific premier health hospitals in Ohio, but it's still a good read.
I hope I was able to help you! If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask! Good luck with shadowing.
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Thank you so much!! All of this info. is very helpful.