Public Policy Is at the Heart of the American Political System. You Are What Keeps It Beating.

Kenneth M. Viste, Jr., MD, Neurology Public Policy Fellowship

Public policy is at the heart of the American political system. It affects everything we do in this country, including the practice of neurology. As a neurologist, you know what needs to be done...but first you must make yourself heard. To be effective advocates, neurologists need to grasp the inner workings of the political system. That takes experience, the kind available to you through the Kenneth M. Viste, Jr., MD, Neurology Public Policy Fellowship.

The Kenneth M. Viste, Jr., MD, Neurology Public Policy Fellowship offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in federal policy and develop the kind of political relationships that help promote neurological interests. You'll work in Washington, DC, for up to a year, as part of a Congressional staff, committee of Congress, or in the Executive branch.

• Learn the Legislative Process
  Gain hands-on experience and education in federal policy related to health care, medical research, and education.
• Build Career Connections
  Develop relationships in federal political circles that will allow you to effectively promote the interests of neurology and patients with neurologic disorders.
• Be An Advocate for Neurology
  After your fellowship, use your new skills to be an effective advocate for neurology

Make Yourself Heard - Make a Difference

As a Kenneth M. Viste, Jr., MD, Neurology Public Policy Fellow, you bring a unique perspective to Washington, working with key staff and advisors in Congress and the Executive branch that are responsible for health and education activities.

After securing a position as a physician staff member, your tenure will begin with an orientation in Washington. Your responsibilities as a staff member will vary based on the needs of the office where you serve.

Be Part of the Policy Process

In your role as a Kenneth M. Viste, Jr., MD, Neurology Public Policy Fellow, you may take part in a variety of activities, including:

• Help draft legislation and take part in the policy process first-hand
• Work with constituents, lobbyists, and congressional committee and office staff
• Participate in hearings and special sessions related to policy
• Attend forums and meetings including those sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, Congressional Research Service, the Library of Congress, and more

How to Apply

Membership in one of the sponsoring organizations is required. Previous experience with public policy activities or involvement in a sponsoring organization is welcome. Candidates will be evaluated on the basis of their professional achievement, experience, and potential for leadership in the neurology community. Emphasis is placed on the nomination letter from a member of the sponsoring organization. To apply, please include:

• Letter of interest describing why you are applying; what you hope to gain from the fellowship, and how you plan to use the experience as training for career development. The letter should evaluate your qualifications and explain how the fellowship might serve your career development and the sponsoring organization once you have completed your term.
• Your curriculum vitae.
• Letter of recommendation from your current institution or practice detailing its commitment to support you during the fellowship and after its completion.
• Three letters of reference (include addresses, phone and fax numbers) from people who know you professionally, particularly those who can comment on your public policy experience and potential interest in government affairs. One letter must be from a member of Academy, ANA or CNS.

Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to contact committee members and past fellows to learn more about the program.

Deadline: October 15 each year

Send to:

Neurology Public Policy Fellowship
Mike Amery
1501 M St. NW, 7th Floor
Washington, DC 20005

The Kenneth M. Viste, Jr., MD, Neurology Public Policy Fellowship carries an annual stipend of $90,000. Stipend may be supplemented by the fellow's sponsoring institution or other extramural support. Up to $6,000 is available for relocation. The sponsoring institution is expected to provide benefits at your existing level during the fellowship.

Kenneth M. Viste, Jr., MD, Neurology Public Policy Fellowship Sponsors

• American Academy of Neurology
• American Neurological Association (ANA)
• Child Neurology Society (CNS)

Selection Committee Members

American Academy of Neurology

P. David Charles, MD - Chair
Susan McDermott, MD

American Neurological Association

Lisa Schulman, MD
Michael Weinrich, MD

Child Neurology Society

Deborah Hirtz, MD
Bennett Lavenstein, MD