Physical Therapy Shadowing in Mexico

Toucan Abroad is an international PT observation program in which students shadow Licensed Physical Therapists for 2 or 3 weeks for a total of 40 or 60 Observation hours. With locations in Cartago, Costa Rica, and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, our program uniquely offers students the opportunity to explore beautiful regions in Latin America while beginning their physical therapy studies. Join us and make your PT resume stand out with an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience!


Website: www.toucanabroad.com
 

Why Toucan Abroad?
 

Clinical Shadowing

Accumulate 40 or 60 hours of clinical observation in multiple physical therapy specialties. Acquire experience with patients alongside licensed PT professionals.

Culture & Language Immersion

Engage with Latin America’s vibrant cultures and communities. Develop your knowledge and use of the Spanish language in a professional health setting. (No prior Spanish classes required.)  

Exciting Excursions

Explore the unparalleled rainforests, beaches, mountains, and volcanoes our locations have to offer. Embark on adventures such as ATV off-roading, ziplining, horseback riding, and more! 

Lifelong Friendships

Create meaningful, lasting friendships with fellow students preparing to study physical therapy.

PT Shadowing

Toucan Abroad students shadow Licensed Physical Therapists for 3 weeks for a total of 60 Observation hours. 

During the program, students typically shadow 4 hours per day, Monday through Friday, to accumulate 20 hours per week. All hours are logged with PTCAS forms and signed by the appropriate PTs to be counted towards students’ applications. 

Students shadow therapists in 2 or 3 different general outpatient clinics and may observe treatment specializations in athletic training, geriatrics, and pediatrics with neurological disorders. Students also may participate in group seminars and focused individual teaching of techniques provided by our partnering clinics
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Physical therapy in Latin America is practiced differently than in the United States, giving students the opportunity to learn methods and techniques they may see infrequently otherwise. Our partnered therapists are professional and dedicated to helping all our students learn to the best of their abilities.

Trips & Excursions

In Puerto Vallarta Toucan Abroad students have the ability to explore the region’s natural beauty and to experience its rich culture. Each week during the program, students’ schedules include a planned excursion, as well as free time for students to explore and enjoy Mexico together. 

• Jungle Ziplining
• Visiting Secluded Beaches
• Horseback Riding
• Beach Activities (Parasailing, Banana Boat, Jet-Skiing, and more!)
• Salsa Dancing
• Tequileria Tour with Tasting
• Chocolate Museum Workshops

What’s Included with Program Fees:

• Support for our Partnered Clinics
• Airport Transportation
• Private Housing for all Students
• Daily Breakfast and Planned Group Meals
• Travel Health Insurance
• Orientation Packages
• Group Excursion Transportation within Mexico
• Group Excursion Costs (entry fees, lessons, tours, etc.)
• Support from the Toucan Abroad staff

• Flights to and from Mexico
• Daily transport to and from local destinations (PT clinics, shops, restaurants, etc.)
• Individual meals/food outside of breakfast and planned group meals
• Individual free-time activities