Clinical experience is more important than ever for medical school admissions. As healthcare evolves, admissions committees expect applicants to have hands-on exposure to patient care that goes beyond shadowing. But with so many options, which clinical experiences will make the biggest impact in 2024?

At AcceptMed, we help students navigate their premed journey with up-to-date strategies. Whether you’re just starting or looking to strengthen your application, choosing the right clinical experience can help you stand out. Here’s a look at the top clinical experience options that actually impress medical schools in 2024.

1. Telemedicine Experience: The Future of Healthcare

Virtual healthcare has expanded dramatically, and premed students who gain exposure to telemedicine demonstrate adaptability in a changing medical landscape.

• Why It’s Trending – Telemedicine is a growing field in medicine, and understanding it shows awareness of modern healthcare challenges.
• How to Get Involved – Work as a telehealth scribe or volunteer with online health outreach programs.

2. Medical Scribing: A Must-Have for Pre-Health Students

With AI impacting healthcare documentation, human scribes are still in high demand. This experience is one of the best ways to gain direct exposure to patient interactions and clinical decision-making.

• What’s New in 2024? – Some programs now integrate AI-assisted scribing, giving students insight into future healthcare trends.

3. Public Health Volunteering: Addressing Health Disparities

Medical schools are prioritizing applicants with public health awareness. Volunteering in free clinics, vaccination drives, or health advocacy groups shows a commitment to community health.

• What’s New in 2024? – Some medical schools now emphasize health equity in admissions, making public health experience even more valuable.

4. Inpatient vs. Outpatient Volunteering: What’s More Valuable?

• Inpatient (Hospitals, ICUs, ERs) – Best for high-acuity cases, trauma exposure, and fast-paced environments.
• Outpatient (Clinics, Private Practices) – Best for continuity of care, long-term patient relationships, and primary care experience.

5. International Medical Experience: Is It Worth It?

Global health programs can be beneficial, but medical schools prefer domestic clinical experience. If choosing international experience, make sure it’s structured, ethical, and directly involves patient care.

What’s Acceptable? – Programs that emphasize education, ethical volunteering, and cultural competence over direct procedures.