Applicants are evaluated initially on their academic records, science grades, personal statements, medical experience, and references. Approximately 100 individuals are interviewed. Final selection is made from those interviewed. Candidates and students must be able to observe demonstrations and participate in experiments in the basic sciences determined essential by the respective facilities. They must be able to observe a patient accurately at a distance and close at hand, noting non-verbal as well as verbal signals.
Observation necessitates the functional use of the sense of vision and other sensory modalities.
Candidates and students should be able to speak intelligibly, to hear sufficiently, and to observe patients closely in order to elicit and transmit information, describe changes in mood, activity and posture, and perceive non-verbal communications. They must be able to communicate effectively and sensitively with patients. Communication includes not only speech but also reading and writing. They must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently in oral and written English with all members of the health care team. They must possess demonstrated reading skills at a level sufficient to accomplish curricular requirements and provide clinical care for patients.