Shadowing in Radiation Oncology
The Department of Radiation Oncology at the University of Florida (UF) seeks to provide an environment that is conducive to caring for cancer patients in a clinical setting while learning about radiation oncology. Our priority is first to medical trainees within UF, including all UF College of Medicine (COM) students, fellows, and those in other healthcare units within the COM. We also recognize that we can provide UF undergraduates with meaningful opportunities to learn and experience the depth and breadth of radiation oncology.
Shadowing is a voluntary experience with a practicing physician in the Radiation Oncology Department. Those approved are permitted to shadow a physician for up to 8 hours per day over the course of a 30-day period. Dress is business casual, and the shadower is not permitted to wear scrubs or a lab coat.
Note: We do not offer any academic credit or medical certification for shadowing in the Department of Radiation Oncology. Shadowing does not constitute medical education, graduate medical education, continuing medical education, or training leading to licensure or board certification. The shadower is not a student, resident, medical staff member, or employee of UF COM and must not represent him/herself as such. Shadowers are not allowed to provide patient care, even under supervision.
Typical activities for shadowing include:
- Observing patient-physician interactions in the clinic
- Discussion of patient interactions with faculty and other members of the medical team including residents, nurses, and medical students
- Participation in didactic activities
- Observing radiation therapy
- Observing proton therapy
Forms required to shadow in Radiation Oncology:
- Form of government issued ID
- Gator 1 Card / UFID
- Picture of vaccine card OR medical exemption form filled out
- Proof of HIPAA certification via myTraining
- Request to Observe Patient Care Form (Only fill out highlighted portions of the document)
- UF Health Security and Confidentiality Agreement
