How Do I Become a Clinical Care Extender?

To become a clinical care extender (CCE), candidates apply to programs that offer this type of internship and complete some basic requirements. The CCE is a medical intern who provides basic patient care under direction from experienced supervisors. Clinical care extender positions are available for people with an interest in health care careers who may want to acquire clinical experience and develop some specialized skills. Such positions are usually open to high school and college students as well as recent graduates.

The first step is to find a facility with a clinical care extender program. These are not available at all hospitals and other facilities; the program originated in Southern California and hospitals in this region are more likely to have opportunities. If a hospital doesn't use CCEs, it may have another internship or volunteer program with similar parameters.

Applicants should also be aware of age requirements, which may vary by region, and fill out application forms expressing interest in the program. Program directors review each application to become a clinical care extender to determine if people are appropriate candidates. A demonstrated interest in nursing, medicine, or other aspects of health care is important. It may also need to be necessary to provide proof of enrollment in an accredited educational institution.

If someone is accepted to become a clinical care extender, it's usually necessary to complete a short course in the classroom followed by an examination to test skills. In addition, people need to provide proof of vaccinations or attend a vaccination session to get up to date. These measures protect the safety of providers and patients. The internship can last between 120 and 270 hours, depending on the applicant's age, and at the end of a CCE program, people can be hired in various health care positions. They can also apply the experience to an application into a training program for health care providers.

Once applicants become clinical care extenders, they can perform basic care under supervision from skilled medical staff. They also have an opportunity to observe procedures in environments like the operating room. The program includes rotations through a number of hospital departments to learn more about different health services and settings. This experience can be valuable for people who want to explore health care careers.

People may be rejected from a clinical care extender program if they do not pass the examination after the short course or if they behave in a way program developers feel is unethical or unsafe. Like other care providers, CCEs must demonstrate respect for patient privacy and safety. Violations of hospital policy and unsafe activities on the job can both be grounds for dismissal.