How Many Shadowing Hours do I Need?

PA programs vary in their shadowing requirements. Many do not require a minimum number of shadowing hours, but a general recommendation is to aim for at least 40 hours. Always check each program's specific requirements.

Can I Shadow Multiple Types of Providers?

Yes! Shadowing a variety of healthcare professionals can provide valuable insights into different roles, and many PA programs encourage it. However, try to prioritize PA shadowing when possible.

How Long Should I Shadow a Provider?

It depends. Some shadowing sessions last a few hours, while others may span multiple days. Always ask your provider what works best for them and their schedule.

How Do I Track Shadowing Hours for My Application?

Use a spreadsheet or document to log shadowing hours, including dates, hours shadowed, the provider's name and role, and any observations/takeaways. Programs like CASPA require detailed logs for verification, so it's crucial to retain this information.

Shadowing

Shadowing

What is Shadowing?

Shadowing involves observing a practicing healthcare provider as they go through their daily work. It allows you to see the clinical environment firsthand, learn about the workflow, and better understand the PA role in different settings. Most PA programs recommend or require shadowing hours, especially with a PA, to demonstrate that you've explored the profession in depth.

Why it Matters

Offers insight into the daily responsibilities and challenges of healthcare providers
Helps you confirm your interest in the PA profession
Strengthens your application by showing informed career choice
Provides networking opportunities with professionals who can mentor or write letters of recommendation

Who You May Shadow

Physician Associate (PA)
Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Physician (MD/DO)
Virtual shadowing, as long as it's accepted by your target PA programs

Getting Started with Shadowing

Connecting with Providers

Ask providers you know personally or through family/friends if you can shadow.
Contact local hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers to ask if they allow shadowing (cold calling).
Leverage your PCE, HCE, or volunteer roles. Ask the providers you work with if you can observe them in other settings or learn more about their day-to-day work.
Use professional associations to connect with providers.
Attend healthcare networking events to meet potential mentors.

Shadowing Request Template

Subject: Shadowing Opportunity Inquiry

Dear [Provider's Name],

My name is [Your Full Name], and I am a [Your Current Status, e.g., recent graduate] from/at [Your School or Institution]. I'm reaching out to inquire about shadowing opportunities at [Practice/Clinic/Hospital] to gain insight into the physician associate role.

I'm drawn to a career as a PA because [brief reason for interest]. Shadowing at your practice would allow me to [what you hope to gain from the experience], and I'm eager to observe and learn from your expertise. I am particularly interested in shadowing you because [reason for choosing this provider, clinic or specialty] and would greatly appreciate the opportunity to observe your day-to-day work firsthand. I am flexible with scheduling and happy to accommodate your availability.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Contact Information]

Tips for Securing Shadowing

Be polite and professional in your outreach: briefly explain who you are, your career goals, and why you'd like to shadow the provider
Offer flexible availability to accommodate the provider's schedule
Be persistent but respectful. Follow up after two weeks if you haven't heard back.
Have a brief resume ready in case they request it.

FINDING A ROLE

Before You Arrive

Confirm details: Verify the time, location, and any requirements (such as ID or paperwork) with your provider or office.
Dress appropriately: Business casual or scrubs (if instructed). Avoid open-toed shoes, heavy perfume/cologne, or distracting clothing.
Bring essentials: A notebook, pens, and a small bag. Keep your phone on silent and out of sight. Optional: In some cases, a provider may invite you to listen with a stethoscope; if so, they will typically provide one.

During the Experience

Be professional: Introduce yourself politely to staff and patients when appropriate. Use titles (Dr., PA, etc.) unless directed otherwise.
Respect confidentiality: Follow HIPAA guidelines at all times. Never discuss patient information outside the clinic.
Stay engaged: Observe carefully, take mental notes, and ask thoughtful questions when the provider is available - never during patient care.
Be adaptable: Healthcare is unpredictable. Follow instructions from staff and remain flexible with your expectations.

Sample Questions to Ask

What inspired you to become a PA? Why did you choose PA over other provider roles?
What experiences helped you the most in PA school or during your clinical rotations?
What does a typical day look like for you in this specialty?
How did you choose to work in this specialty?
What do you find most challenging and most rewarding about your role?
What advice would you give to someone preparing for PA school?

After Your Session

Thank your provider: Always express gratitude in person. A short thank-you email or note afterward is professional and appreciated.
Reflect: Write down what you learned, how the experience shaped your understanding of the PA role, and any new questions that came up.
Maintain connections: If appropriate, ask about opportunities to return or stay in touch for future shadowing.

TIPS & ETIGQUETTE