The United States of America remains a top destination for many foreign-trained doctors. The reasons are not far-fetched; the country has some of the best medical facilities globally, doctors are paid well, and there are many career advancement opportunities. Due to these reasons, getting placement for residency (an entry point into the US medical system for foreign-trained graduates) is very competitive, even after passing the licensing exams. However, there are a few things that can boost your chances of being matched, one of which is clinical rotations for international medical students.

Clinical rotations for international medical students is an elective clinical program that is meant to expose international medical students to the US health system. These rotations typically last from 1-3 months, depending on the external rotation schedule of the international medical student. International medical students will work directly with physicians in private practices and hospitals to maximize the professional and educational experience offered by the training.

For an international student to qualify for this clinical rotation, the student has to be enrolled in an accredited medical school in the home country. The schools’ curriculum should also provide an external clinical rotation during which the student can travel to the US.

ADVANTAGES OF CLINICAL ROTATIONS FOR FOREIGN MEDICAL STUDENTS

1. The United States Clinical Experience: US clinical experience makes candidates stand out during application and interviews for residency matching. This is because it reflects your long-term interest in the US medical system and will help you stand out. United States Clinical Experience is also a prerequisite for residency by many training institutions. 
2. Letters of Recommendations: To be matched into the US residency program, a letter of recommendation is required from a practicing medical professional in the US. A clinical rotation in the US will grant you access to many physicians under whom you carry out your observership, and these can serve as future recommenders. 
3. Exposure to the US Medical System: A clinical rotation in the US will not only impact hands-on experience but will also expose rotating students to the workings of the American healthcare system. (care delivery, health insurance, Medicaid, medicare etc.).
4. Evaluation of Your Strengths and Weaknesses: Through most rotations, there will be no formal evaluation of your skills and competencies at the end of your clinical rotation. However, with AMIQT you will be evaluated on a more personal level and you will get valuable advice about your strengths and weaknesses and areas in which these can be maximized.
5. Transferrable Experiences: Even for those who are not interested in practicing in the American system, exposure to the US healthcare system offers you the benefit of learning from some of the brightest minds and the best medical centers in the world. These will form invaluable experiences that will impact your practice in your home country and make you stand out among your peers.

Getting exposed to the American health system through clinical rotations holds a lot of promise for medical students who are interested in practicing in the US healthcare system. However, it is also a valuable experience for those who are interested in practicing medicine in their home countries.

For more information on clinical rotations, please give us a call today.