Rural Physician Associate Program (RPAP)
Director Kirby Clark, MD

The Rural Physician Associate Program (RPAP) is a nine-month, community-based educational experience for University of Minnesota third-year medical students who live and train in rural communities across Minnesota and western Wisconsin. RPAP students experience hands-on learning as they care for patients of all ages.
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1500+ ALUMNI
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61 PRECEPTORS
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37 STUDENTS
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34 TEACHING SITES
Prospective Students
Students work under the direct supervision of board-certified community preceptors and other specialists in the community hospital and clinic. Students from a wide variety of backgrounds and experience participate in the program.
Rural Observation Experience
The Rural Observation Experience (ROE) is a 2-3 day shadowing experience with a rural family physician. Students see first-hand the rewards and challenges of rural medicine.
Summer Internship in Medicine
SIM is an elective experience offered to students during the summer between their first and second year of medical school. The course is offered through the University of Minnesota Medical School Duluth.