Shadowing and clinical observation are important components of preparing for a career in the health professions. We encourage all prehealth students to explore shadowing opportunities with clinicians in their areas of interest. Shadowing across multiple experiences and specialties can provide valuable insight into the realities of clinical practice, the diverse roles within health care, and the skills, responsibilities, and personal qualities needed to succeed in a health profession.

To learn more about shadowing, patient-facing volunteer opportunities, and other ways to gain clinical experience, please visit our webpage on Finding Experiences and HPA Shadowing Tips. 

The HPA-Sponsored Shadowing Program will be on hiatus for the 2026-2027 school year.  Students seeking shadowing experiences in the Duke University Health System can follow the DUHS Visiting Observer Policy to shadow.  

DUHS Visiting Observer Policy (Non-Physician) v.3

Please review the DUHS Visiting Observer Policy for Non-Physicians carefully before arranging any shadowing experience. Compliance with the policy is the responsibility of both the DUHS sponsor and the visiting observer. All completed forms are maintained by the hosting department and can be accessed in Box.

Key Points

  • Visiting observers must be at least 18 years old.
  • Observation experiences are limited to 21 days.
  • Visiting observers are not permitted computer access.
  • Observers may participate in observation only and may not engage in patient care activities.
  • A completed Visiting Observer Agreement is required before any observation experience begins.
  • The DUHS Visiting Observer Checklist summarizes all required documentation.

DUHS Sponsor Responsibilities

  • Obtain department manager or director written approval the observer visits, observes, or tours any department.
  • Complete the DUHS Visiting Observer Agreement (Form A).
  • Ensure the visiting observer completes all required documentation.
  • Maintain all completed documentation for six years. 

Visiting Observer Requirements

Complete the following documents:

  • DUHS Confidentiality Agreement (B)
  • DUHS TB Attestation Form (C)
  • DUHS Visiting Observer Background Check (D)
  • DUHS Visiting Observer Checklist (E)
  • Immunization documentation
  • DUHS Emergency Alerts (F)
  • Duke Health Code of Conduct Acknowledgment (G)
  • Privacy and Safety Orientation Review (H)