Preceptor Program

A preceptor is an integral part of a PA student’s education. Preceptors serve as role models and through guidance and teaching, help students perfect skills in history taking, physical examination, effective communication, physical diagnosis, patient management and concise, accurate documentation. Preceptors are designated as Affiliate Faculty of Wingate University.

A preceptor is a licensed, board certified health care provider including MD, DO, PA, NP and CNM with at least one to two years of clinical practice in their clinical specialty.

The clinical year is made up of 10 four-week rotations. Clinical faculty work with preceptors to determine the four-week rotation dates that work best for the preceptor’s practice schedule.

Students are expected to follow the schedule of the preceptor. We understand this varies from a Monday through Friday to a "7 on, 7 off" schedule.

Typically, students average 160 hours per four-week rotation.

Under the guidance and supervision of the preceptor, the student should be involved in all aspects of patient care. They are trained to take detailed histories, perform physical examinations, give oral presentations of findings and develop differential diagnoses. As the clinical year progresses, students perfect these skills and become more adept at assessing medical problems and recommending management plans.