Policy on Absences

Absence:  Each student is assigned to a team and is expected to function as a responsible member of that team.   Any unexcused absence may result in a failing grade.  Absence for any reason but illness or emergency must be approved ahead of time by the hospital coordinator.  An opportunity to make up required work will be provided when such absences are cumulatively less than one week in length.  Absence for more than two weeks for any reason will automatically result in the student having to repeat the entire externship.  Absences of one to two weeks will be handled on an individual basis by the hospital coordinator and course director.  During the six weeks of Medicine 7-501, if students need time off for interviewing they should try to minimize the time taken from any clerkship (please see the medical school guidelines for interviewing days off).  Prior approval from the hospital site coordinator is required.  Students are expected to receive on average, one day off per week, arranged with the team.  This may be on a weekday, if that best fits with the schedule.  This time off does not count as an absent day from the rotation.