CHOC Observer Program

Thank you for your interest in observing the care and services provided at Children’s Health of Orange County.

The Observer Program at Children’s Health of Orange County offers shadowing opportunities to those who are interested in developing careers in the healthcare field, specifically on the pre-medical track. The Observer Program allows students the opportunity to observe physicians on staff at the Children’s Health of Orange County main campus in Orange, California. Please visit our FAQ page for any questions you may have or email observer@choc.org.

About The Program

students observing doctors
  • As an observer, you will be able to watch a physician as they care for and treat their patients.
  • The application and onboarding process takes 8 weeks to complete.
  • All students applying to the observer program must connect with a physician before applying to the observer program. Click here to search the CHOC physician directory.
  • Students can shadow physicians on staff at the CHOC main campus in Orange on Main Street and La Veta Avenue and the CHOC Primary Care clinics.
  • If you are a high school student, the total amount of hours approved to observe is 8 hours maximum.
  • If you are an undergraduate or postgraduate student, the total amount of hours approved to observe is 80 hours maximum.
  • Observerships must be completed within 6 months or less from the start date.
  • Students must be at least 18 years old to observe in the OR. Not all departments can accept observers.
  • CHOC Observer Email: observer@choc.org

Who Is Eligible?

CHOC’s Observer Program is intended for:

High school students
at least 16 years of age
Undergraduate
students
Postgraduate students
(non-medical)

*Residents, Fellows, and Practicing Physicians are not eligible for the Observer Program

How Do I Apply?

STEP 1

Please click here to complete the observer application.

STEP 2

If your application has been accepted, you will receive the required paperwork to begin the onboarding process. Two of the forms will require your Sponsoring Physician’s signature. Applicants may not begin observing until they receive approval in Step 5.

STEP 3

Submit current immunization record and proof of required vaccinations or immunity. Required vaccinations include Varicella, MMR, Tdap, negative TB test, COVID-19 vaccination AND booster, and flu (if during flu season).

STEP 4

Complete a background check if 18 years of age or older. Applicants are responsible for the costs incurred for the background check.

STEP 5

If approved to observe, applicants will receive a confirmation email confirming they are approved to start observing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply to shadow a PA, NP, or nurse?

Unfortunately, CHOC’s Observer Program does not offer PA, NP, or nurse shadowing opportunities.

How do I contact a physician I am interested in shadowing?

Please see their contact information on the CHOC physician directory.

How long is a CHOC observership?

Students may shadow for up to 6 months or until they complete their maximum total number of hours, whichever comes first.

Can I receive academic credit through CHOC’s observer program?

No. CHOC’s observer program does not offer any academic credit.

Are residents, fellows, or practicing physicians eligible for the CHOC Observer Program?

Unfortunately, the observer program does not offer shadowing opportunities for residents, fellows, or practicing physicians.

I still have questions. Who may I contact?

You may email observer@choc.org.