A guide to clinical Electives

Going for clinical electives in a developed country like UK, USA or canada has always been a dream for medical students. Electives are considered to b a good step for career building of a medical student. First of all, lets talk about what are electives in the medical world?
what are electives?
Clinical electives consist of a short duration course in a specific field where the medical student gets an insight and knowledge about that clinical field under the supervision of a qualified specialist.


when to go for electives
Medical students usually go in 4th year or final year of their medical school and it is actually the best time to go for electives.

HOW TO APPLY
When you decide for electives, its good to contact some seniors or fellows who have already done electives.its good to know about their experience. They'll tell you mistakes they did and this will help improve your electives experience.
Next, select the speciality or your field of interest you want to do electives in. Remember this is going to help you build your career specially in that field that you do electives in.
Then you have to select region where you want to go for electives. Doing electives in a different language is going to give you exposure to a whole new culture, where you are going to deal with patients in a whole new environment and setup. So, be prepared for that mentally.
Lookup for the medical institutes in that region which offer electives. Google it. Look for reviews about the place you are going to apply for. Try to get its ranking. Get its fees plan. Make a proper budget for your course and apply for whatever suits you best.
Always apply well before you intend to get your ourse started.
Things to remember

. Get you travel and health insurance.If visiting an EU country apply for the free European Health Insurance Card, which offers you access to reduced-cost medical treatment.

2. Appropriate vaccinations

The Department of Health provides more information. Take certificates with you.

3. International student card

It can provide useful discounts transport and accommodation, and NUS cards are not accepted abroad.

4. Medical kit

If going overseas, make sure it contains insect repellent, malaria tablets and rehydration sachets for diarrhoea.

5. Access to emergency funds

6. Medical indemnity (if required)

7. Medical school/hospital letter

Carry a letter from the medical school/hospital

Always share your experiences and try to collect experiences of others. Its gonna help you a lot in your electives.

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