“The French essayist Joseph Joubert wrote, “To teach is to learn twice.” You will find that you will learn at the same time as your medical student. Many current preceptors have said they are better physicians to their patients because the students keep them sharp. “They feel energized having a student who brings an excitement to the clinic,” shared Robert Ellis, MD, medical education division and clerkship director, University of Cincinnati.
Mentors and preceptors are key to securing the next generation of family physicians. Medical students need positive family medicine preceptors early in their medical school career to engage with them in their journey and provide them with insight into the family medicine specialty they may not otherwise receive.
However, we understand that making the choice to become an engaged preceptor may seem daunting and come with many questions. What information should I share? What procedures should I share? How will I make time in the day to see my patients and train a medical student? How will this disrupt the practice and other team members? The list can go on. With all of these questions in mind, the OAFP Foundation has created a dedicated section of its website to provide preceptors with helpful information to be a successful preceptor.
The list of resources on the page will continue to grow so please return often for updated links and information!
If you’re ready to jump in and train the next generation of family physicians, the Foundation NEEDS YOU! Recruitment of preceptors and students is always available for the Foundation’s hallmark program, the Leroy A. Rodgers, MD, Preceptorship Program. Preceptors share four weeks during the summer months with a medical student that has just completed their first year of medical school. If interested in hosting a student, please complete the Volunteer Preceptor Form and return it to Kaitlin McGuffie.
You can also reach out to the local medical school in your area to determine if there are any preceptor needs for clinical rotations. Many rotation coordinators are actively trying to secure preceptors for their students and many do not have connections to physicians not already connected to their University.
For example, the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine’s Department of Family and Community Medicine is seeking family medicine preceptors for the 3rd Clerkship. If you are in the area and able to accommodate a student, or need more information, please contact Program Manager, Medical Education Nancy Jamison.
If you have any questions about precepting or need assistance in connecting with a University, please email Director of Foundation & Strategic Programs Ms. McGuffie.