The Anacortes clerkship takes place in four practices located in this Puget Sound community. The primary teaching site is a group practice of 14 physicians, one physician assistant and one family nurse practitioner, led by site coordinator, Dr. Shawna Laursen. In addition, the student may spend time on Orcas Island at a family practice in Eastsound. The Island Hospital is near all the practices. Students spend the majority of time in ambulatory care clinics, but also are actively involved in the care of hospitalized patients, including surgical assisting and obstetrics.
Students rotate on emergency call at the hospital.
Students are urged to learn about community service centers and resources. This is an example of a medium-sized, rural community, and gives students an opportunity to see medicine practiced in various group settings. The clinic, hospital and apartment are within walking distance. A car is necessary for off site activities.