How to Request to Shadow a Doctor (Free Email Template Included)

Why Shadowing a Doctor Matters for Aspiring Physicians

Shadowing a doctor is one of the most essential steps on your journey to becoming a physician. It gives you a behind-the-scenes look into the medical profession—something no textbook can offer. It also strengthens your application by showing admissions committees that you’ve explored the field firsthand.

Whether you’re in high school or college, learning how to shadow a doctor starts with knowing how to ask.

What Is Shadowing and What Should You Expect?

Shadowing means observing a physician as they go about their day. You won’t be providing direct care or performing clinical tasks. Instead, you’ll gain insight into how doctors interact with patients, handle administrative duties, and manage the demands of the profession.

You may witness patient consultations, diagnostic discussions, paperwork, and even minor procedures—depending on the physician's specialty and the healthcare setting.

Patient Confidentiality and HIPAA Rules

As a shadowing student, patient privacy is crucial. You must follow HIPAA guidelines strictly. This means not sharing any identifiable patient information—even in casual conversation. When writing about your experience (like in your AMCAS essays), change names and omit personal details.

Key Tips to Maximize Your Shadowing Experience

Take Notes During Downtime

Bring a small notebook or use your phone to jot down ideas or questions (outside patient rooms). These notes will be useful for your personal statement, Work and Activities section, or medical school interviews.

Track Your Shadowing Hours

Keep a log of the hours you spend shadowing. Note the date, location, name of the doctor, and number of hours. Aim for 50–75 hours across a few different specialties to strengthen your application.

How to Ask a Doctor to Shadow

Now that you know what shadowing involves, let’s talk about the most important step—actually securing the opportunity.

Can You Shadow a Doctor in High School?

Yes! High school is a great time to start. Early exposure shows initiative and can help confirm your interest in medicine before college.

Who to Ask First

Start with any connections you have. Know a family member who’s a doctor? Ask them—or ask if they can connect you with a colleague (since family members can’t write letters of recommendation for your med school application).

Your next best option is your own physician—primary care doctor, pediatrician, or specialist. If they can’t host you, they may refer you to someone who can.

You can also:

Search online for “physician shadowing near me”
Check if your school offers shadowing programs
Reach out to local hospitals or clinics directly

What Type of Doctor Should You Shadow?

While any clinical exposure is valuable, shadowing in a specialty that interests you—such as pediatrics, OB/GYN, internal medicine, or surgery—can help you confirm your career goals.

Diverse shadowing experiences also look good on applications, so try to shadow a variety of physicians if possible.

What to Include in Your Shadowing Request

When reaching out to a doctor, keep your message professional and concise. Whether you're calling or emailing, include the following:

Your full name and current school
Your year and major (if in college)
Your interest in medicine and reason for reaching out
How you found them (e.g., referral, search, former patient)
A specific ask to shadow
Your availability and a polite closing

Attach a resume if you’re emailing, and keep voicemails under 30 seconds.

Sample Email to a Doctor You Know

Subject Line: Shadowing Opportunity Request

Dear Dr. Minaj,

I hope you’re well. You were my pediatrician growing up, and I always appreciated the care you gave. I’m now a sophomore at Baylor University studying Biology on a pre-med track.

I’m writing to ask if you’d be open to letting me shadow you to gain insight into life as a physician. I have open availability this summer and would be grateful for any time you could offer. I’ve attached my resume and would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Thank you for considering my request.

Sincerely,
Jane Doe

Sample Phone Script for a Doctor You Know

Hi, Dr. Minaj! This is Haven Bender. You were my pediatrician, and I’m now a pre-med student at Baylor University. I’d love to gain some real-world experience by shadowing you, if you’re open to it. My number is 123-456-7890. Thank you so much!

Sample Email to a Doctor You Don’t Know

Subject Line: Request to Shadow – Pre-Med Student at Baylor

Dear Dr. Jones,

My name is Haven Bender, and I’m a pre-med Biology student at Baylor University. I found your name while researching physician shadowing opportunities in the area.

I’m passionate about medicine and would be grateful for the opportunity to shadow you to gain clinical exposure and learn more about your practice. I’m available this summer and have attached my resume for your review.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,
John Doe

Sample Phone Script for a Doctor You Don’t Know

Hi, my name is John Doe. I’m a pre-med student at Baylor University, and I’m looking for a physician to shadow. I came across Dr. Jones while researching shadowing opportunities and would love the chance to learn more about the profession. Please feel free to call me at 123-456-7890. Thank you!

Final Tips for a Successful Shadowing Experience

Always show up early
Dress professionally
Follow instructions and privacy protocols
Send a handwritten thank-you note afterward
Politely request a letter of recommendation after you’ve built rapport

Expand Your Shadowing Through Global Opportunities

If you’re looking for immersive clinical exposure beyond local shadowing, Go Elective offers global health internships and pre-med shadowing programs in Kenya and Tanzania. Our programs give students hands-on opportunities to observe experienced physicians, engage in community health initiatives, and explore healthcare delivery in resource-limited settings.

Explore Go Elective’s medical internships to broaden your perspective and prepare for a future in global healthcare.