New Process for Observation/Shadowing Experiences at Cook Children's

The Academic & Medical Education department announces a new Employee Led Observation Request process! The electronic form is only accessible through CookNet and is not available externally.

Observations provide an opportunity for students to explore future careers. There are also situations where our healthcare partners request a professional observation. We receive hundreds of observation requests annually so there are important steps to follow to provide an optimal learning experience for observers and staff.

Please be aware, in order to be approved for an observation:

·         Observers must be at least 18 years of age.

·         A preceptor or mentor for this placement request must be identified. The Academic & Medical Education department does not match observers to mentor/preceptors.

·         Observation hours may not be used for academic credit toward an academic degree or college course.

·         Observers must be current on immunizations, including seasonal Flu, MMR & Varicella. (There are no allowable exceptions to vaccination for observers.)

·         Observers must provide proof of current personal health insurance coverage.

If the person meets all of the above requirements employees should complete the Employee Led Observation Request form.

Once cleared, the observer and mentor will receive a clearance email and will be able to schedule the time and date(s) for the shadow experience. Please note (per policy HR 711) observations are limited to a maximum of 40 hours annually and are contingent upon patient census and the availability of staff.

Note: Cook Children's employees interested in observing/shadowing in another area/department need to contact their supervisor and the leadership of the host area/department to observe.  PTO should be submitted for observation experiences. There is no need to go through Academic and Medical Education as an employee seeking observation of another employee or healthcare professional.

Please contact observation.education@cookchildrens.org if you have any questions or concerns.