FAQ
Q. How will PCM Scholars be selected?
A. All incoming M1s are eligible to apply to the PCM Program by completing the Program application. A faculty selection committee will review applications and make final selections. Priority will be given to students who have demonstrated social responsibility and commitment to service and patient welfare.
Q. How is the PCM Program integrated into the medical school curriculum?
A. The M1 and M2 PCM Program components fulfill the Introduction to Patient Care (IPC) requirements. Program activities during the M3 year are integrated into the required Family Medicine Clerkship. The M4 component is elective.
Q. Who will precept PCM Scholars?
A. Faculty from the UIC Department of Family Medicine, as well as other faculty from UIC, will precept PCM Scholars. Scholars also have the option to work with a preceptor outside of UIC, and should discuss this with the PCM Director or Coordinator before the academic year begins.
Q. Will PCM Scholars have actual patient responsibilities during the M1 year? Does this go beyond what students otherwise experience during their M1 year?
A. Yes. As compared with the traditional M1 IPC experience in which students primarily function in an observer role, PCM scholars will actively engage in the care of their patients by assisting their respective clinical preceptors in the management of selected patients.
Q. Will PCM Scholars do more work than students in other ICP tracks?
A. Since PCM scholars will assume responsibility to help care for “their” patients over time, it is likely that they will devote more time than students in the traditional track. Students need to carefully consider this when applying to the program. We believe that the personal and professional benefit students will derive from their ongoing work with their patients will far outweigh any additional time demands the program may require.
Q. Will PCM Scholars be able to opt out of the PCM Scholars Program after entry?
A. Yes. At the end of each academic year, students will have an opportunity to return to the traditional medical school curriculum, if they so choose.