How does Health Care Staff Solutions (externship placement) work?
This article explains how HCSS manages externship placements, what students can expect during the placement process, what information they’ll receive after being matched with a clinic, and who to contact if there are delays or placement issues.
Health Care Staff Solutions (HCSS) is Zollege's externship-placement partner. They match you with a local clinic where you'll complete your 80 required externship hours under a licensed supervisor.
Timeline: After you finish in-class instruction (usually week 12), HCSS sends you an intake email within 3 business days. You'll confirm your zip code, weekday/weekend availability, transportation, and any clinical preferences (pediatrics, urgent care, family medicine, etc.). Placements are typically confirmed within 7-10 business days from the time you submit your intake.
Once placed, you'll receive: your supervisor's name and clinic address, the agreed start date, your weekly clock-in sheet template, and the evaluation form your supervisor will complete.
If you haven't heard from HCSS within 10 business days, or if your placement falls through, email externships@zollege.com with your full name and program. Do not contact clinics directly - Zollege has site agreements that need to go through HCSS first.
Common questions: HCSS placements are unpaid (this is standard for healthcare externships); you're covered by Zollege's general liability insurance during your shifts; and travel reimbursement is not provided, but most students are placed within 25 miles of home.
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