Denver Health's Education Observer Program (formerly known as the Job Shadow Program) is open to high school and undergraduate college students as well as individuals in a 1-1-year gap from an undergraduate degree completion. All applicants must have an intent to pursue a career in healthcare. The program is not open to students currently enrolled in a medical, nursing, pharmacy or other clinical educational programs.
Observing a health care professional at Denver Health lets learners experience the day-to-day life of the professional and provides information on the skills and education required for the position. The program offers up to 40 hours of observation within a two-month period from the application approval date.
Updates to the Education Observer Program
The application for the Education Observer Program will reopen on Monday, November 2nd! The Office of Education will be utilizing a new platform, Better Impact, for application submissions. Application materials sent via email will no longer be accepted.
Experiences will be available for two seasons: winter/spring and summer. The program will no longer offer experiences in the fall.
Interested applicants should note the following eligibility guidelines, which have recently changed:
- Individuals must be 16 years of age or older. Permission from a parent or legal guardian is required for students under the age of 18.
- To observe personnel in the Operating Room or Emergency Department, the individual must be at least 18 years of age.
- Observation opportunities will be available in behavioral health/psychiatry units, clinics, and the forensic unit, with the following exceptions: Methadone and Suboxone Clinics, Denver Cares, Addiction Counselors, MAT Providers, and any activities involving STET kits. Under no circumstances will shadowing be permitted in these areas.
- Applicants must provide proof for the following immunizations: Seasonal Influenza (if observation is between October and March), MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), PPD (Tuberculosis test) within the last year, Tdap (Tetanus, Diptheria, and Pertussis), Varicella, and Hepatitis B.
We look forward to reviewing your application in November! For further inquiries, the program can be reached at EducationObserver@dhha.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this the Job Shadow Program?
Yes. The Job Shadow Program has been renamed the Education Observer Program. While the name has changed, the program continues to provide individuals with opportunities to observe healthcare professionals and learn more about healthcare careers.
2. Can I submit a partial application and add documents later?
No. The Better Impact platform requires applicants to submit their application and all required documentation at the same time. Incomplete applications cannot be reviewed.
3. When should I apply to the program?
The Education Observer Program has designated application periods throughout the year. Applicants should submit their completed application at least four weeks before their desired observation start date to allow sufficient time for application review, processing, and scheduling.
4. Can I observe more than 40 hours?
No. Approved observers are limited to a maximum of 40 observation hours per approval period.
5. Can I participate in the program more than once per year?
No. Participants may only be approved for one observation experience per calendar year.
6. Can I observe multiple providers?
Yes. Participants may observe multiple providers as long as:
- Each provider completes and signs their own Observer and Confidentiality Agreement.
- The total observation time across all providers does not exceed the 40-hour maximum.
7. Can Denver Health find a provider for me to observe?
No. Applicants are responsible for identifying a provider willing to host their observation experience.
We recommend visiting the Denver Health Provider Directory and searching for providers in the specialty area that interests you. Once you have identified a provider, you may contact their office to inquire about observation opportunities.
8. I submitted my application. What happens next?
No further action is required once your application has been submitted.
Your application will be reviewed, and you will receive an email with next steps after the review process is complete. Please note that processing times may vary depending on application volume.
9. How do I submit an application through Better Impact?
To apply through Better Impact:
1. Create a Better Impact account.
2. Complete the Education Observer Program application.
3. Upload all required documentation.
4. Review your application for completeness.
5. Submit your application for review.
Applications cannot be reviewed until all required documents have been uploaded and submitted.
10. When is the Education Observer Program offered?
The program operates during two observation cycles each year:
Winter/Spring Cycle 2026/2027
Application Window: November 2 – February 1 Observation Window: December 1 – April 4
Summer Cycle 2027
Application Window: April 2 – June 18 Observation Window: May 3 – August 13
Applicants should ensure their applications are submitted at least four weeks before their desired observation start date within these observation periods.
Additional Questions?
For questions about the Education Observer Program, application requirements, or application status, please contact:
Please note: Submission of an application does not guarantee placement. Observation opportunities are dependent upon provider participation, department availability, and completion of all program requirements.
