Early Clinical Engagement

INDE 268

Early Clinical Engagement (ECE) is an innovative course for first year medical students to participate in clinical experiences that inform their vision as future physicians. Course goals include integration into the clinical setting with preceptors, development of concrete skills, and introduction to different career paths. ECE includes three components: (1) clinical experiences, (2) interactive large group seminars, and (3) small group sessions for reflection of clinical sessions.

Course Information

Vision

Course Goals

Course Objectives

ECE Continuum

Course Format

Seminar Session Dates

Preceptor FAQs

Is Faculty Development available for preceptors?

How will students be assigned to preceptors?

What is the student capable of doing during a clinical experience?

Students are in their first year and will be learning the basics of doctoring skills such as history taking and the physical exam during this time.
They should not have the same clinical expectations or responsibilities as a clerkship student.
First year students should be supervised by the preceptor or a member of the healthcare team during the clinical encounters.
For each clinical encounter, your student will have designated objectives mapped to overall themes of the quarter.
During each session, your student will engage in active observations guided by the specific objectives of the session.

What training will a student have undergone before their first clinical experience?

How often will the student shadow me?

Students are required to complete a total of 6 sessions per academic year (4 hours each).
On average, students should be meeting with their preceptors twice per quarter, but there is flexibility.
The first session can be an introductory meeting.
All clinical sessions should be completed by the end of the spring quarter.

How do I log/verify the student’s hours?

What will students be learning in the classroom?

The following topics will be covered in ECE sessions:
Professional Identity Formation/Culture of Medicine
Communication and rapport building strategies in the setting of telehealth
Team Dynamics: The role of the medical student in a medical team. Nuts and Bolts of the Clinical Setting
Creating an Inclusive Healthcare Environment
Who are you: Exploring our self-identities as future healthcare providers
Exploring identity group membership: Conversations about race and ethnicity
Advanced Communication: Engagement in difficult conversations

How can I prepare for the sessions with my student?

Who can I contact with any questions or concerns?

Student FAQs

What is the format of the course?

6 seminar sessions (1 hour/session):
The sessions will consist of a didactic, panel discussion, and/or small group reflection.
Seminar sessions will take place on Thursday evenings.
6 clinical sessions (4 hours/session):
Students and preceptors will meet at their clinical site at a mutually agreeable date and time between Q1 (autumn quarter) and Q3 (spring quarter).
The student will work with their preceptor to achieve their goals and objectives for the specific session.

How do I register for ECE?

What assignments will I have in this course?

How can I get more information about other electives that can satisfy the ECE requirement?

How will I be paired with a preceptor?

Students will submit an interest survey during new student orientation to help us match interests to the best of our ability.
Due to limitations of available preceptors, we cannot guarantee any particular specialties for students.
We understand that some students may have specific specialties they would like to explore. Others may be interested in many fields at this early time. It is also completely appropriate for you to feel undifferentiated without a strong preference. We want to emphasize that the purpose of ECE is to provide a lens for which you can experience foundational principles of medicine and patient care. The specialty of your designated preceptor is in no way a reflection of commitment or even interest in that particular field.
Generally, pairings are not subject to change.

When will I receive my preceptor pairing?

What will my role be in the clinical site?

Each clinical encounter will have designated objectives mapped to the overall themes of the quarter.
During each session, students will engage in active observations guided by the specific objectives of the session.
Your role could vary depending on your clinical site. This should also be discussed with your preceptor.

What training will I have undergone before my first clinical experience?

What if I cannot attend my scheduled clinical experience?

What if I cannot attend a mandatory ECE session?

Can I continue shadowing my preceptor after the course ends?

Yes, it will be left up to you and your preceptor to schedule additional shadowing sessions outside of ECE requirements.
Your preceptor will need to agree to serve as your faculty instructor.
You may also discuss enrollment in the elective 280 course series with your preceptor.
Please contact the ECE course leadership with any other questions.