Gap Year Medical Advancement Program 2026

We've made a lot of progress since opening the doors in 1942, but one thing has never changed - our commitment to serve, heal, lead, educate, and innovate.  We believe that every award earned, every record broken and every patient helped is because of the dedicated employees who fill our hallways. 

At Ochsner, whether you work with patients every day or support those who do, you are making a difference and that matters.  Come make a difference at Ochsner Health and discover your future today! 

The Medical Advancement Program (MAP) offers a competitive opportunity for college graduates to enhance their applications during their gap year to medical or PA school for the 2027-2028 or 2028-2029 academic years through valuable clinical experience as a paid medical assistant at Ochsner Health. Participants will enjoy additional activities targeted to benefit pre-medical students, as well as a cohort of like-minded learners.

This job provides individualized, medical care of assigned patients in person, electronically and via telephone under the supervision of a licensed health care provider.  Assists in the delivery of health care services to patients of diverse backgrounds and age and maintains positive relationships with patients and their families. Works effectively with fellow employees to ensure the efficient flow of patients throughout their visit, providing support to them as well as to the attending physician.  Communicates via phone to ensure patient needs are met timely and accurately.  Accesses company's data systems to document pertinent medical information.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.

This job description is a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the job and position. It is not intended to be a comprehensive or all-inclusive listing of duties and responsibilities. Contents are subject to change at the company's discretion.
 

Education

Required - Bachelor's Degree, 3.5 GPA - Please upload transcript upon application.

Required - Reference Letter from faculty advisor or professor - Please upload letter upon application.

Required - Applying to PA or Medical School (including Osteopathic) for the '27-28 or '28-29 school year.

Required - High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred - MCAT, PA-CAT, or GRE (either taken or scheduled).

Work Experience

Required - Experience working with and maintaining confidential information including experience working in a fast-paced environment with minimal supervision.

Commit to working 40 hours/week for 1 year

Certifications

Required - Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

• Clinical knowledge.

• Proficiency in using computers, software, and web-based applications.

• Effective verbal and written communication skills and ability to present information clearly and professionally to varying levels of individuals throughout the patient care process.

• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills.

Job Duties

• Supports the patient and provider throughout the patient visit.

• Ensures the patient and provider are prepared for the visit.

• Ensures the patient’s questions are answered prior to leaving; prepares room for next appointment.

• Provides excellent patient service through effective communication both over the phone and in person.

• Completes appropriate documentation including patient registration if necessary.

• Maintains required clinical knowledge, technical skills, training and credentials through personal professional development.

• Adapts behavior to the specific patient population, including but not limited to respect for privacy, method of introduction to the patient, adapting explanation of services or procedures to be performed, requesting permissions and communication style.

• Performs other related duties as required.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work only. They are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibiliti