AAOS Resident Advocacy Fellowship

The AAOS Resident Advocacy Fellowship is designed to encourage participation of orthopaedic residents in the national health policy arena and to foster their development in becoming key members of the AAOS advocacy team.

• Gain a greater understanding of the health policy legislative and regulatory process.
• Contribute to the development of new policies and programs, as well as strategic planning.
• Work on various projects with senior AAOS staff.
• Develop a strong foundation for leadership in the health care environment.

Interested applicants for the 2021 calendar year must be PGY3 or PGY4 individuals, U.S. citizens, and possess the following qualities:

• Have the desire to learn about the political process and to contribute to policymaking through active involvement.
• Bring a fresh and innovative approach to problem solving and a willingness to tackle complex health care issues.
• Communicate with other residents/fellows about the importance of involvement in the health policy process

Additionally, Fellows must be able to fulfill the following time/attendance requirements:

• Capitol Hill visits and advocacy training
• Week in Washington, D.C., at the AAOS Office of Government Relations (Fall 2021)
• Presentation via webinar on an aspect of the health policy issues covered during his/her fellowship program (November 2021)
• Active encouragement of other residents in advocacy

Interested applicants must send the following items no later than December 15, 2020 (email and mailing details below).

1. A statement of commitment to the applicant’s participation in the program
2. A letter of recommendation from the applicant’s program Chair/Director containing an evaluation of the applicant’s qualifications, an endorsement of the applicant’s participation in this program
3. Letter of recommendation from an additional faculty member
4. Cover letter that includes complete contact information through the application period
5. Current resume or curriculum vitae
6. Brief essays on the following topics (250-300 words each):
   1. The reasons why you want to be an AAOS Resident Advocacy Fellow and how you will use this Fellowship. Include a discussion of your major strengths and qualifications for the program.
   2. Explain what you believe are the most difficult challenges facing the health care delivery system today and what policymakers should explore and why.

The AAOS Resident Advocacy Fellowship lead volunteer is Stuart L. Weinstein, MD, Ignacio V. Ponseti Chair and Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Professor of Pediatrics, and Former AAOS Political Action Committee Chairman.

Applications and inquiries should be directed to:
Julie Williams, Senior Manager
AAOS Office of Government Relations
317 Massachusetts Ave, NE
Washington, 2002
202-546-4430
jwilliams@aaos.org