Community Internship Program

About the Metro Omaha Medical Society Community Internship Program

The Community Internship Program was established by the Metro Omaha Medical Society in 1992 to foster communication and understanding between physicians and the community and business leaders who either work closely with physicians or whose decisions impact health care.  

This unique program is  designed as an information exchange to broaden the perspectives of all participants and establish ongoing and open communication. The goal is to create a cooperative if not collaborative atmosphere for addressing issues impacting patients and the delivery of healthcare. Participating interns are provided the unique opportunity to shadow physicians, witness all aspects of care including patient examinations and procedures, consultations, interactions with the medical team in a variety of practice environments.  Interns gain an understanding of the human concerns of physicians and the challenges they face through firsthand experience. Physicians gain input from a broad spectrum of community leaders and their considerations.

Shadowing experiences are tailored to the interests and availability for each intern and can include a single shadowing experience or multiple.  

In past years, this program has occurred over a one-week period.  Beginning in 2023, in an effort to provide better flexibility, the program will be available ongoing.  Interns may request shadowing experiences at any time and a schedule will be developed to meet his or her individual needs.

Why is the program important?

Few things impact the state of Nebraska and its residents more than healthcare – whether it is issues related to access, quality or cost of care – no doubt it is something that impacts all Nebraskans.  At the Metro Omaha Medical Society, our member physicians understand that to positively impact healthcare, it is necessary to communicate as well as foster cooperation and collaboration with legislative, community and business leaders.

Who participates?

COMMUNITY INTERNS: Invitations are extended to lawmakers, business/community leaders and other professionals who affect or carry out policy with an impact on the practice of medicine or delivery of health care. If you are interested in serving as an intern, or would like to suggest someone to serve as an intern, please contact Laura Polak

PHYSICIANS: MOMS physician members participate on a volunteer basis to serve as preceptors and be shadowed by the community interns.  Physicians interested in participating, please complete the registration form below.  We will reach out to you when shadowing experiences need to be scheduled.  

Time commitment

Interns and physicians have the option of selecting a single shadowing experience or multiple based upon his or her availability.  We request 2-3 hours of availability for each shadowing opportunity. 

Banquet dinner

Annually, interns and physicians will be invited to attend a Community Internship Banquet Dinner giving an open forum to discuss the individual experiences and build upon the discussions.  


PHYSICIAN REGISTRATION