Make a difference Become a change-maker through the AOA’s Training in Policy Studies program
The application cycle for the 2024-2025 TIPS cohort is now open!
The Training in Policy Studies (TIPS) program is a policy-based program, generously funded by the American Osteopathic Foundation, that provides an understanding of current health care policy issues while also facilitating leadership opportunities.
Sessions will focus on physician payment models, health care reform, social determinants of health, the opioid epidemic and current public health issues. Participants will gain experience in writing policy briefs and white papers, oral testimony, media training and more.
This program serves as an initial leadership and policy program for residents wishing to become more active within the osteopathic profession. TIPS fellows have gone on to serve in leadership and policy development roles both within and outside of the osteopathic community. Some have also continued their policy training by participating in the Health Policy Fellowship program, which has produced over 20 deans and college of osteopathic medicine presidents.
Program structure
Fellows will gain hands-on experience in policy by attending meetings led by experts, drafting policy briefs and papers, engaging in interactive training and attending events that provide leadership and networking opportunities. Please review the 2023-2024 program agenda as an example of the topics and activities covered by the program. The program is comprised of eight meetings, with the first meeting taking place on Sept. 20-22, 2024, at OMED in San Antonio, Texas. The updated agenda will be released soon.
How to apply
Please complete the online application for the 2024-2025 TIPS cohort by 11:59 p.m. ET on Sunday, July 21, 2024. View instructions on how to create an account in our portal and apply.
A complete application will include the following items:
- An updated resume or CV uploaded to the application page
- A 250-500 word statement of purpose explaining why you hope to join the program
- A writing sample
- A recommendation form completed by a reference who is familiar with your interest and/or involvement in policy
We encourage you to make sure these items are ready before beginning the application. You will be able to add recommenders in the online portal. View a copy of the form the recommenders will need to complete. Decisions will be issued by late June, and the first meeting will take place at OMED in September. While not necessary during the application process, selected candidates must become AOA members at the resident level by Sept. 1, 2024, in order to participate.