Clinical Education
PCOM Clinical Clerkship Program
The clinical clerkship program provides third- and fourth-year Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) students with the opportunity to examine, evaluate and provide care for patients.
The development of these clinical skills helps students prepare for national board
examinations and, ultimately, the practice of medicine.
Clinical education reinforces and expands the basic training acquired by students
during the first two years of medical school. Through clinical exposure, assessments and other evaluative tools,
clinical education provides students with the professional and clinical skills needed
for post-graduate residencies and the practice of medicine.
The 23 clerkships include 13 core education clerkships. The remaining elective/selective
periods allow each student ample opportunity to pursue his or her special interests.
What are the clinical clerkship program objectives?
During PCOM's clinical clerkship program, students will:
- Develop clinical skills including physical examination, test interpretation and case
presentation.
- Understand and diagnose a variety of illnesses and conditions.
- Learn to document observations, histories and orders.
- Participate in patient rounds.
- Perform basic procedures under supervision.
- Demonstrate effective communication skills at all levels of patient care.
Where will I complete my clinical clerkships?
Training sites include hospitals as well as regional and community medical centers.
Additionally, clerkships are offered at sites ranging from private practices to urban
and rural health centers. Clerkship opportunities are disbursed throughout the Delaware
Valley area including Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey and Maryland.
TEACHING AFFILIATES
Is housing provided during clerkships?
Housing is provided for core clerkships designated as "away." Housing is not provided
for electives. However, it is the student’s responsibility to ensure housing arrangements
are in place for all clerkships.
How will my clinical clerkships be assigned?
The PCOM Office of Clinical Education, along with faculty and hospital administrators,
will determine the clerkships provided at each site and the number of students assigned.
Flexibility regarding assigned clerkships is limited. Students should consult their
clerkship manual for change submission deadlines and other requirements.
Who should I contact if I have questions about the clinical clerkship program?