Their role, their limits, and your right to say no.
A medical student is someone currently in school to become a doctor. They rotate through different hospital departments to gain hands-on experience by observing care and practicing basic skills. They are not yet licensed doctors, so they always work under the direct supervision of a licensed physician or attending.
Students may interview you about your medical history or perform a basic physical exam. They can also observe surgeries, assist with routine dressing changes, or practice minor procedures if they are properly trained. They never make final decisions about your diagnosis or treatment plan without confirming everything with their supervisor first.
You may be in a teaching hospital, which is a facility affiliated with a medical school. These institutions provide care while training the next generation of doctors. Having students involved often means more eyes on your case and more time spent discussing your specific health needs.
You always have the right to decline having a student participate in your care. You can request that only licensed staff perform your exams or procedures at any time. Simply tell your nurse or doctor that you prefer not to have students present, and the team will honor your choice without impacting your quality of care.