Clerkship Transportation Policy

Qualifying for Reimbursement for Clerkship travel

As part of their required clerkship curriculum, students may be assigned to a clinic or hospital site outside of the Chicago Campus. When students must travel off campus, they are expected to take University shuttles, mass public transportation or their own vehicle.

In specific situations, students traveling off campus may be reimbursed for travel via Metra, personal car or, in unusual circumstances, taxi. Please note that some clerkships provide transportation options at little or no cost to students. Students should utilize these options. In cases where the clerkship does not provide transportation options, a student may qualify for travel reimbursement to their primary assigned site.

Whether traveling by taxi or Metra (counter ticket purchase price only) reimbursement will consist of the one-way cost less the cost of CTA public transportation; one way CTA ride plus transfer is currently $2.50. For personal vehicles there is a $5 deduction. Please note students will be reimbursed from the Chicago campus or home, whichever is shortest, up to a maximum of $30 each way.

Reimbursements may be issued when:

• A student is required to start clerkship work before 6 AM.
• A student is required to work later than 9:30 PM or, for those at the Jesse Brown VA, after the last shuttle.
• A student traveling to an outpatient facility or McNeal Hospital that is readily accessible by public transportation (Metra, CTA) will be reimbursed for Metra travel less the cost of CTA public transportation (one way ride plus transfer is currently $2.50). If traveling by car or taxi students are expected to travel together whenever possible.

• All requests will be reviewed by the appropriate clerkship coordinator/director for validation and the AWOME for adherence to department and Northwestern University policies and guidelines.

  Please Note: This policy is subject to change without notice.