This is the first entry in our series about student elective
rotations. Second year students in the
UC/CCHMC GCP who are on track to complete their clinical logbook requirements
are given the option to develop their own elective rotation. Students choose these rotations based on
their interests or on skills they would like to obtain. Along with input from program faculty, they
develop the learning objectives and outcomes for their rotation.
One of the reasons I was particularly interested in the
genetic counseling program at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital was the sheer
magnitude of unique and exciting opportunities available to students. When
offered the chance to participate in an elective rotation to gain more
experience in an area of interest to us outside of our typical studies, I
enthusiastically decided to try and rotate with the International Adoption
Center (IAC) at CCHMC. Although adoption has long been an interest of mine, I
found that my experience with the psychosocial concerns (challenges and
successes!) of adoptive families was limited. Additionally, as some children
available for adoption may have special healthcare needs (some of which can be
attributable to a genetic syndrome) I knew that this rotation would make for a well-rounded
learning experience. In the end, I felt that I was better able to appreciate
the needs of adoptive families while learning more about issues unique to the
adoption process.
Throughout
my 5-week rotation, I was able to observe a number of families at different
points in their adoption process. At the IAC, families considering adoption are
able to discuss the details of their referral while those who have arrived home
can receive specialized care for their children in a setting designed to meet
their unique needs. Most children receive comprehensive evaluations from all of
the specialties in the clinic, including:
infectious diseases, nursing, social work, and occupational therapy.
Addressed were the child’s healthcare management needs, recommended
immunizations, necessary referrals to other specialists, and so much more. Common
psychosocial concerns discussed included: attachment, ongoing behavior
concerns, and general adjustment to the new environment and family. I
thoroughly enjoyed my time rotating with the IAC and learned a great deal about
the adoption process, multidisciplinary clinics, and working with families
during a period of great change and, at times, high stress.
--Jule Diaz