The Observer Program
About the program.
The Observer Program offers students a unique opportunity to explore healthcare careers through hands-off observation and job shadowing experiences. Students age 16 and older who meet the eligibility requirements may participate to gain insight into a healthcare setting and learn more about potential career paths.
This voluntary program is for observation purposes only and does not provide employment, compensation, academic credit, licensure, board certification, grades, or written evaluations. Sponsors may verify observation hours, and participants under age 18 are limited to a maximum of 8 observation hours.
Participants will have the opportunity to observe clinicians providing patient care in a variety of healthcare settings, including:
- Cardiology
- Emergency Department
- Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
- Laboratory
- Oncology
- Pharmacy
- Physical Therapy/Rehabilitation
- Physician Offices
- Radiology
Application requirements and documents.
To apply, simply complete and submit the online application and a representative will contact you with further instructions withing 3-5 business days.
You will be asked to provide the following:
- Government-issued photo ID
- Sign an observer agreement - If you are under the age of 18, the agreement also requires parental signature.
If you are seeking to observe for more than 8 hours or more than one day, you will be asked to complete an Associate Wellness check.
- This includes a QuantiFERON Gold TB test within the last 12 months and a flu vaccine during the months of October-March.
- These may be provided to the students through Health First or supplied by the student’s provider of choice.
Please note, the Observer Program Application Cycle is as follows:
| Application Window | Clearance Deadline | Observation Window |
|---|---|---|
| Nov 1 – Nov 30 | Dec 31 | Jan 1 – March 31 |
| Feb 1 – Feb 28 | March 31 | April 1 – June 30 |
| May 1 – May 31 | June 30 | July 1 – Sept 30 |
| Aug 1 – Aug 31 | Sept 30 | Oct 1 – Dec 31 |
Students must apply during the Application Window and submit all necessary documents by the Clearance Deadline.
The observation experience will be scheduled during the Observation Window. Students should plan for any academic breaks to better fit their schedules.
Document links.
If you are in need of rotations for school credit, please have your school email [email protected].