Suggestions for finding preceptors

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I am enrolled in a distance NP program and need to find preceptors (MDs or NPs) in primary care internal medicine to start in fall 2017. I have asked around to people I know, and I have also looked online at AANP to see if it has any directories (which it doesn't). Does anyone else have any other suggestions? I live in Los Angeles, thank you.

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1. Consider networking with classmates/professors and anyone in your clinical placement office. This can be a big resource. Sometimes your school can give you names of MD/NPs that have taken on students in the past as well as some graduates from the program now accepting students to precept.

2. Get your information together. Immunizations, PPDs, , updated resume/cover letter, any documentation from the school regarding a welcome letter for preceptors, evaluation paperwork, preceptor requirements.

3. Google search. Make a list of practices (private, urgent care, minute clinics) and cold call. Make sure you are clear and concise on the phone and be ready to grab an email address to send over your resume.

4. If hospitals are of interest to you, contact HR department and ask for director of nursing in your desired department or ask for someone in education or anyone in charge of interns.

5. Be persistent. You will need to follow up with people.

6. Let your preceptors know what you can offer them. I.e preceptorships are a great way to fulfill ANCC certification renewals.

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Specializes in Adult Nurse Practitioner.

If you look at your state's np association affiliated with AANP, you should find a preceptor list.

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Specializes in OR Nursing, Critical Care, Med-surg.

I asked my PCP and she said yes, to my surprise! I'm really happy about it because she's super smart, 20+ years in family medicine and her office is only about 10 minutes away. However, this is only for my 1st rotation, health assessment.

Of course we can't be picky with who to choose for our preceptors, but I want to gain as much knowledge as possible from a knowledgeable provider.

Next, I'm going to actually go up to clinics with my resume and a cover letter - with some cookies or something. I'm going to leave it with the receptionist (since the providers may be busy) and hope to get a call or an email. If they smell cookies hopefully it'll draw them in :-)

You have quite a bit of time which is great! But, it's never too early to secure preceptors. Just make sure you stay in contact with them if you decide to secure this early on.

Good Luck!

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Thank you, everyone!

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