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Resident Physicians TIPS Program

TIPS Program

Make a difference

Become a change-maker through the AOA's Training in Policy Studies program

The application cycle for the 2023-2024 TIPS cohort is now open!

The Training in Policy Studies (TIPS) program is a policy-based programgenerously 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 2022-2023 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 Oct. 6-8, 2023, at OMED in Orlando, Florida. The updated agenda will be released soon.

How to apply

Please complete the online application for the 2023-2024 TIPS cohort by 11:59 p.m. EST on Sunday, Aug. 20, 2023. 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 they will need to complete. Decisions will be issued in mid-August, and the first meeting will take place in October. While not necessary during the application process, selected candidates must become AOA members at the resident level by Sept. 1 in order to participate.


Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of the fellowship?

The fellowship is a year-long leadership training program designed to give osteopathic physicians the skills they need to analyze, formulate and implement health policy on the local, state and national levels with the purpose of increasing access to affordable, quality health care.

Who can apply for the fellowship?

This program is open to all osteopathic physicians who are in an active AOA- or ACGME-accredited residency or fellowship training program. We are seeking a class of ten fellows.

How many seminars will I attend?

For the 2023-2024 year, fellows will attend three in-person seminars, in conjunction with AOA events such as the OMED conference, and participate in five video conferences. Please note that the agenda will be subject to change.

Is attendance mandatory?

Yes. A fellow who is accepted into the program is expected to attend all in-person sessions, complete all assignments by the deadline and participate in at least four of the five digital meetings.

How much does the program cost?

The program is funded by a generous grant from the American Osteopathic Foundation and there is no tuition cost for the program. As part of the program, fellows will receive transportation and one night of lodging to in-person meetings and associated AOA events. The AOA will cover costs related to travel for the in-person meetings in accordance with its travel policy.

Can I receive academic credit or CME for my participation in the fellowship?

No, there will be no academic credit or CME credit received for completion of the TIPS program.

Who makes travel and lodging arrangements?

You will make your own travel arrangements to the seminars, and the AOA will cover travel costs associated with in-person meetings per its travel policy. Please note the time the seminars end and make return flights that will allow you to participate fully that last day of the seminar.

How much time am I expected to devote to fellowship activities in between sessions?

Fellows spend approximately 20 hours on TIPS assignments in-between sessions. The reading assignment is designed to take about four hours. The bulk of your time is spent researching your project topic and drafting your policy briefs.

Will I make a formal presentation of my policy project report?

Yes. The fellows will be invited to present at an AOA Bureau meeting or conference.

Do I earn a certificate for my participation in the TIPS?

Yes, you will receive an AOA certificate of completion at graduation.

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