Published
Jun 8, 2023

How to Get in a Clinical Rotation

Clinical Clerkship

Getting into a clinical rotation is an essential step for many healthcare professionals looking to gain experience in their field. Clinical rotations provide students with hands-on experience in a real-world setting, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-life situations. This experience can be invaluable for those hoping to pursue a career in healthcare, so it’s important to know how to get into a clinical rotation.

The first step to getting into a clinical rotation is to determine which type of clinical rotation is right for you. Clinical rotations come in many forms, including clinical internships, externships, clinical clerkships, and residencies. Each of these options offers different levels of experience and responsibility, so it’s good to research and decide which type of rotation will best meet your needs. In this blog, we will go over the necessary steps needed in order to get into a clinical rotation.

Researching the Different Types of Clinical Rotation

staff of medical students during their clinical rotation


Finding the right clinical rotation can be a difficult and time-consuming process. There are many different types of clinical rotations available, and each one offers different levels of experience and responsibility. It’s important to research and decide which type of rotation will best meet your needs. This can be a challenge, as there are many factors to consider when making this decision.

The first step is to determine which type of clinical rotation is right for you. Clinical internships, externships, clinical clerkships, and residencies all offer different levels of experience and responsibilities. It’s advisable to consider these factors when selecting a clinical rotation, as each one will offer a different set of challenges and benefits.

The next step is to research the various clinical rotations available. This can include reading reviews, speaking to other healthcare professionals, and researching the different requirements and expectations of each program. It’s important to make sure that the program you select meets your needs and that it provides the experience you are looking for.

The Types of Clinical Rotations

When it comes to clinical rotations, there are a few different options available. Each type of rotation offers different levels of experience and responsibility, so it’s important to do your research and decide which type of rotation is right for you. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of clinical rotations available.

Clinical Internships are typically short-term rotations that provide an introduction to a field of study. Interns often take on administrative duties, such as filing, answering phones, and assisting with patient care. Clinical internships are a great way to gain experience in a healthcare setting and can provide valuable insight into a career in healthcare.

Externships are similar to internships but are typically longer-term and more in-depth. Externs are often assigned to a department or specialty and are expected to perform more complex tasks. Externships provide a great way to gain experience in a specific area of healthcare.

Clinical clerkships are longer-term rotations that provide more hands-on experience. Clerks are expected to observe and participate in patient care, often taking on more responsibility than interns or externs. Clinical clerkships are a great way to gain valuable experience and insight into a healthcare career.

Finally, residencies are the most advanced type of clinical rotation. Residents are typically expected to take on more responsibility than interns, externs, or clerks and are often highly involved in patient care. Residencies provide a great way to gain experience and specialize in a particular field.

Each type of clinical rotation offers different levels of experience and responsibility, so it’s important to do your research and decide which type is right for you. With careful consideration and research, you can find the perfect clinical rotation for you and begin gaining valuable experience in your chosen field.

Submitting an Application

woman submitting clinical rotation application

After researching the various types of clinical rotations, you’ll need to obtain the necessary paperwork and documents to properly apply. This typically includes medical records, immunization records, and sometimes a background check. It’s important to make sure that you gather all of the necessary paperwork, as it may be required before you can start your clinical rotation.

Most clinical rotations require the completion of an application, which typically includes a resume, cover letter, and letters of recommendation. It’s essential to make sure that your application is complete and accurate, as this will make a big difference in your chances of being accepted into a clinical rotation.

Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll likely be asked to attend an interview. During the interview, you’ll likely be asked a variety of questions about your professional goals and experience. It’s important to be prepared for this interview, as it’s your chance to make a good impression and demonstrate why you’d be a good fit for the clinical rotation.

Finding the right clinical rotation can be a difficult process, as there are many factors to consider and often a lot of paperwork to complete. However, with careful research and preparation, you can find the right clinical rotation for you and begin gaining valuable experience in your chosen field.

Clinical rotations offer a great way for healthcare professionals to gain valuable experience in a real-world setting. By taking the time to research and decide which type of rotation is right for you, you can begin gaining experience and insight into a career in healthcare. Additionally, by completing an application and attending an interview, you can gain entrance into the clinical rotation of your choice. With careful preparation and research, you can find the perfect clinical rotation for you and begin reaping the many benefits it has to offer. If you are preparing to do a clinical rotation but are struggling to find the right clerkship for you, C.H.H.A. is here to help. If you are interested you can apply now for our clinical clerkships or you can contact us with any questions or concerns

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