Journal Article: PDF OnlyA year-long clerkship in ambulatory careRuane, T JAuthor Information Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing. Created Date: 17 October 1988; Completed Date: 17 October 1988; Revised Date: 18 December 2000 Journal of Medical Education: September 1988 - Volume 63 - Issue 9 - p 699-704 Free Abstract Decreased availability of hospitalized patients for medical student education, a changing clinical environment in both hospital and outpatient settings, and the need for teaching the specific skills of primary ambulatory care mandate the development of outpatient-based clinical clerkships. A required third-year clerkship at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine combines a long-term structure and a defined curriculum with a wealth of clinical encounters. New approaches to the basic clinical education of medical students are needed to connect clinical resources, specialty expertise, and the special knowledge and skills needed for primary care. The clerkship described in the present paper represents a model for such clinical education. © 1988 Association of American Medical Colleges