PHSRC Observership Program

Jordan, one of the P.H.S.R.C. Observership Participants
"The PHSRC Observership was not only my best shadowing experience I have had but also the only clinical observation experience where I was actually helping the care team I was following!" Jordan

The PHSRC Observership Program was designed in collaboration with M Health Fairview to provide students with an enriching experience observing and providing feedback to health profession teams, and as a result, the opportunity to improve the quality of care for patients. 

Students in the PHSRC Observership Program sign up for shifts to round with a physician in the M Health Fairview East Bank Hospital. After rounds, students attend an interprofessional team meeting and use a structured feedback form to document their observations on the communication and collaboration they observe. 

Students can enroll in the PHSRC Observership Program after completing 2-credit prerequisite course AHS 3101: Teamwork and Interprofessional Collaboration in Healthcare, as well as minimal additional program onboarding after the course ends. The PHSRC Observership Program builds upon AHS 3101, which teaches students about teamwork in healthcare and includes preliminary preparation for the PHSRC Observership Program.  

Read more about Jordan's experience piloting the observership program on our Pulse Blog.

Who is eligible for the PHSRC Observership Program?

Participants must:

  1. Be a University of Minnesota student or graduate who has successfully completed the AHS 3101: Teamwork and Interprofessional Collaboration in Healthcare course with a C grade or above.
  2. Complete all program training and enrollment steps prior to participating

What is the time commitment?

Umel, P.H.S.R.C. Observership Pilot participant
"The observership gave me a better understanding of what it really means to care for patients while working in a team. It showed me how important good communication, teamwork, and respect are when taking care of patients, which is a crucial aspect in healthcare that we all need to be exposed to. This experience made me feel more prepared and excited for my future in healthcare!" Umel

Students will have the opportunity to sign up for shifts throughout the year. Shifts will generally run from 8:30 AM until 12:00 PM. Students who enroll in the PHSRC Observership Program will be expected to complete at least three shifts per semester. Shift frequency and availability for the Spring 2027 program is forthcoming.

Where does the PHSRC Observership Program take place?

Shifts will be available at M Health Fairview University of Minnesota Medical Center - East Bank hospital.

What will students get out of the program?

The PHSRC Observership Program provides students with the opportunity to gain exposure to the hospital setting, increase their professional network, learn about communication with patients and care team members, and take on an active role in improving the quality of healthcare.

Students, advisors, or others with questions about the program are encouraged to email [email protected].