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.

Applications may be submitted four times per year based on the following schedule:

• By January 1 for a March 1 or later start of rotation
  
• By April 1 for a June 1 or later start of rotation
  
• By July 1 for a Sept 1 or later start of rotation
  
• By October 1 for a December 1 or later start of rotation

Applications should be sent to the ASA Medical Student Component, 520 N. Northwest Highway, Park Ridge, IL 60068 or faxed to 847-825-5658.

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 days before the start of the rotation.

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.

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. }