Student/Resident Experiences and Rotations in Community Health (SEARCH) is a state-based program that enables students and residents to serve clinical rotations on multidisciplinary health care teams in underserved communities across the United States and its territories.
Dr. Ryan Buchholz of the Cardozo Community Health Clinic
About SEARCH
Learning in a community-based practice in an underserved area offers medical, dental and mental health students and residents a chance to “pay forward” with service to a needy community while gaining a unique primary care training experience working with patients in underserved urban and rural areas. SEARCH helps students and residents
- Improve ambulatory care clinical skills
- Work with patients from a diversity of cultures
- Serve as a valued member of an experienced health care team members
- Benefit from the mentorship of a dedicated preceptor
Rotations are designed and implemented by State and local organizations, so each one is different. Typically, the SEARCH rotation includes clinical practice and a community service project that gives participants a real taste of community life.
During these rotations, clinicians develop the necessary skills and gain exposure to practicing in rural, frontier and urban Health Professional Shortage Areas.
Working as a team is very important when caring for these patients. Problem solving and brainstorming about the various issues takes many providers with many experiences and education. I try to put myself in these patients’ world – with their health issues, problems financially and emotionally – it was an eye-opener.
Nurse Practitioner and SEARCH participant
Wymore, Nebraska
The Health Resources and Services Administration provides funding to State Primary Care Offices, Primary Care Associations, Offices of Rural Health, Area Health Education Centers and other organizations to operate SEARCH programs.
 |
 |