Clinical education and training at LECOM begins in the first year through the History and Physical (H&P) Examination courses. Having documented competency in obtaining histories and physical examinations, all students are prepared to participate in clinical preceptor encounters during the second year. These encounters occur at the clinical preceptor’s offices where students will have the opportunity to actively participate in actual patient encounters, obtaining histories and performing examinations.

This begins the clinical experience that intensifies in years three and four as LECOM prepares students to become an osteopathic physician possessing the highest competencies in the profession. The program will educate students to become competent physicians who clearly recognize their roles as providers of comprehensive healthcare to the individual, to the family as a unit, and to communities.

Osteopathic physicians must be able to function in the role of leader of the healthcare team to bring about needed change from the level of the individual to the level of the community. The ultimate intent of the program is to prepare physicians who will impact positively on the equality of healthcare and healthcare delivery systems and will improve access for individuals and their families.

In today's healthcare world, physicians are integral to the efficient functioning of the healthcare system. Students' attitudes and learning will be directed toward understanding the role of the primary medical manager, while recognizing the need for consultation with other medical specialists when appropriate.

We believe the physician must assume a leadership role not only in the medical community, but also in the broader community in which he/she serves. Community leadership is an integral part of improving the healthcare of the community as a whole; thus, physicians must be motivated toward the prevention of illness and the upgrading of the delivery of healthcare services at extended levels.