Responsibilities for Supervising Students in the Clinical Setting

Authorizing Body:

Office of the Dean

Author:

Date Issued:

Last Update:

Rationale:

The foundation of this standard practice guideline is to provide general instructions regarding the responsibilities of students when being supervised and / or evaluated in clinical settings.

Scope and Applicability:

All School of Medicine Faculty and Residents

Standard Practice Guideline:

Medical students participating in clinical activities and the care of patients must be supervised at all times by physicians, residents, nurses and other licensed practitioners who are practicing within the scope of their own practice as delineated by the credentialing body of the clinical site. 

Individuals supervising students must be credentialed by the medical school’s affiliated-institution where the faculty member practices. 

Students must be forthright about their level of training and skills.

Medical students may only participate in invasive and non-invasive procedures under the direct, in-person supervision and approval of a qualified faculty member; or a qualified resident or fellow if authorized by a qualified faculty member.

Verification of the adequacy of supervision is the responsibility of the Curriculum Committee.

Individuals who provide psychiatric, psychological, medical care or other health services to the student should never evaluate that student. This situation represents a conflict of interest and should be reported by the student to the clerkship/elective director so that another evaluator can be identified.  

Individuals having a close personal relationship with a specific medical student outside of the academic setting must have no involvement in the academic assessment and promotion of that student. This situation represents a conflict of interest and should be reported by the student to the clerkship/elective director so that another evaluator can be identified.  

The School of Medicine will also request assurance that students participating in electives or sub-internships at other LCME-accredited institutions will be provided faculty supervision as outlined above. 

All electives taken at non-LCME accredited institutions, for which Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine is giving credit toward graduation, will follow requirements as outlined above. An Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine faculty member will be appointed to review the elective application outlining the learning objectives.