1 Preceptor/Provider Volunteers

What is the role of a Clinical Provider Volunteer?

The clinical volunteer provider provides on-site supervision and oversight of students engaged in the practice of medicine in clinical service learning settings, in accordance with the requirements of applicable state law and UW policy.

The clinical volunteer provider when necessary will also make clinical decisions and engage in direct care, including patient assessment and providing patient advice in settings where the practice of medicine is involved.

Types of medical services typically offered on outreaches:

• Blood pressure/heart rate monitoring
• Assessment of respiratory/breathing problems
• Assessment of musculoskeletal concerns and pain
• Assessment of skin lesions (on legs, arms, neck, face, scalp)
• Vision screening
• Wound care
• Foot care

What are the Responsibilities of a Clinical Volunteer Provider?

Preceptors should understand that as licensed providers, they are responsible for the care the patient receives. Students have varying levels of clinical skills and knowledge and require direct supervision.

• Please arrive on time to the service learning activity and stay until all activities are concluded.  This will prevent students from being in a situation where they may be tempted to interact with a patient/client without supervision.
• If protected health information (PHI) is collected, it must be handled in accordance with HIPAA guidelines.  Please review and co-sign all documentation and be certain that patient/client confidentiality is maintained.

In addition to supervising clinical activities, preceptors  are asked to take the opportunity to:

• Ensure educational materials are distributed to patients appropriately.
• Teach students about disease processes, epidemiology, and the social determinants of health in a real-world setting.
• Model and articulate the professional role of a physician or health professional, good communication skills, and patient-centered medical care.
• Help students identify ethical dilemmas encountered during clinical practice and give them tools to deal with them.
• If appropriate to the setting, teach students physical examination skills and how to do a focused examination.

Interested preceptors must complete this survey and receive approval before going out to an event.