> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ismms-md-program.gitbook.io/medical-student-handbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ismms-md-program.gitbook.io/medical-student-handbook/academic-information-and-resources/ascend-curriculum-overview/clinical-apprenticeship-experience-apex.md). # Clinical Apprenticeship Experience (APEX) The Clinical Apprenticeship Experience (APEX) program at the Icahn School of Medicine is designed to integrate early clinical experiences for medical students, emphasizing the importance of the patient-physician relationship as a core component of professional identity formation. These early encounters aim to ensure students observe interactions between patients and clinicians, which will inform their development as future physicians. **Clinician-Student Matching and Interaction**: The program aims to introduce medical students to potential clinicians in their chosen fields. Students rank their top three preferred clinical fields and are assigned an APEX Triad based on their interests and preceptor availability. Each Triad includes a preceptor from one preferred field and preceptors from two related fields, providing broader clinical exposure and supporting career exploration. The experiences focus on observing clinician-patient interactions and effective communication strategies in various clinical settings. Students will check in about their experiences during Practice of Medicine (POM) sessions throughout the academic year. **Scheduling and Reflective Reporting**: Independent learning blocks and outside curriculum hours are recommended for these experiences, and the use of mandatory curriculum sessions is strongly discouraged. Students are responsible for any missed curriculum content if they choose to meet during required curricular hours. Students are expected to submit a structured reflection after each experience, guided by specific prompts from the program. **Emergency Medicine Component**: The Emergency Medicine (EM) component of the APEX program involves a three-hour shift at a designated Mount Sinai Health System Emergency Department during the fall. This observational experience provides students with early exposure to the emergency care setting and a variety of patients and conditions. Students should wear scrubs or business-casual clothing, closed-toe comfortable shoes, and their ID badge. Students should also bring a stethoscope; a white coat is optional. By encompassing early clinical experiences, robust communication strategies, and structured interactions with clinicians, the APEX program provides a comprehensive and immersive medical education experience, equipping students with the skills and professional identity necessary for their future careers.

Dr. Nisha Chadha

Nisha Chadha, MD \ Director, APEX Program, Office of Curricular Affairs \ Associate Professor of Ophthalmology and Medical Education \ Director, Medical Student Education in Ophthalmology \ Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai \ New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai