Rural Access Scholarship Available to Medical Students

Criteria:

-- Must be a Medical Student member of ASA.

-- Must be a third- or fourth-year medical student in an approved program in the U.S.

-- Must have a mentor who will oversee the activities of the medical student during the rotation.  The mentor also must be an ASA member.

-- Must complete the rotation and submit a Satisfaction Evaluation form upon completion of the rotation.  The mentor will complete a similar form.

Application and Deadlines:

Click here for application… (link to application form)

Applications must be accompanied by a 250-word explanation from the participants why they are interested in the Rural Anesthesia Grant Program.

Completed applications must be submitted to the ASA Executive Office at least 90 days before the start of a rotation.  The application will then be forwarded to the Committee on Rural Access to Anesthesia Care for review and a final decision.  The applicant will be notified of the committee’s decision at least 30-45 days prior to the start of the rotation, or sooner if possible.

For 2007, in the initial, we will accept applications immediately.  Starting in 2008, applications may be submitted two times per year based on the following schedule:
            By November 1 for a February 1 start of the rotation
            By May 1 for an August 1 start of the rotation

Applications should be sent to the ASA Membership Department, 520 N. Northwest Highway, Park Ridge, IL 60068, or faxed to (847) 825-1692.

Distribution of Funds:

Approved applicants will receive an initial stipend of $250 at the time of their acceptance.  The balance of the grant award up to $500 (a maximum total of $750) will be paid when the participant has:
--  Submitted appropriate documentation of expenses, including receipts;
--  Completed and returned student evaluation form; (link to form)
--  Completed and returned mentor evaluation form; (link to form)
--  Submitted proof of completion from the medical school registrar.

Contributions from institutions that wish to donate to this program may do so through the Foundation for Anesthesia Education and Research (FAER).  Contributions will be acknowledged by FAER as a tax-deductible donation.

Frequently Asked Questions:

-- How do I know if the hospital that I wish to do my rotation at is considered a “rural hospital” that qualifies for the program? 
  {The location of the hospital should be in a rural setting, and would be up to the discretion of the Committee on Rural Access to Anesthesia Care for review and a final decision.}

-- Would my participation in this program count toward my medical school’s requirements for training and graduation?
   {Please check with your medical school.   ASA would not be involved in determining this.}

-- What if my expenses exceed $750 during my rotation, due to travel or living expenses?
  {The maximum for this ASA-sponsored grant is $750.  However, we strongly encourage the applicant to check with the sponsoring program for other possible support (funds, housing, etc.) that may be available to you.}

-- Once my application is approved, how soon will I receive the funds so I can make the appropriate travel plans and other arrangements?
  {The initial check for $250 would be mailed to you within 5-7 business days after the committee has notified ASA of your acceptance. }

-- Will ASA provide me with something that shows I have successfully completed this program?
  {Yes.  ASA will send to you a letter of completion from the Committee on Rural Access to Anesthesia Care, which you can use as documentation for your medical school or include on your curriculum vitae. }