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MSMS Health Policy Fellowship Offers Medical Students Hands-On Experience in Advocacy
The Michigan State Medical Society (MSMS), in partnership with Central Michigan University College of Medicine, offers a Health Policy Fellowship that immerses medical students in organized medicine, advocacy, and public health. This opportunity is available to any medical school that commits to a faculty group membership with MSMS. For more information, contact Tom George, MD. This Fall’s two fellows reflect on their experiences below.
Natalie Aguilar, 3rd Year Medical Student, CMU
As the third Health Policy Fellow during August and September of 2025, I have had an immense opportunity for learning and growth. This experience has allowed me to deepen my understanding of health policy, the role of physicians and physician societies in shaping public health, and the importance of building professional networks.
During my time in this fellowship, I gained insight into insurance reform and reimbursement by attending meetings with Medicaid and CMS, as well as the PGIP conference with Blue Cross Blue Shield. I also had the privilege of meeting countless physicians, alongside Doctor George, through events such as the Genesee County Medical Society Town Hall with AMA President Doctor Mukkamala, the MSMS Past-Presidents Council Meeting, and the County and Specialty Society Presidents Leadership Meetings.
Read Natalie’s full reflection here.
Patrick Fakhoury, 4th Year Medical Student
As a fourth-year medical student, I had the opportunity to serve as the fourth Health Policy Fellow with the Michigan State Medical Society (MSMS). During this time, I had the privilege of engaging directly with MSMS leadership and members to better understand how policy and advocacy shape the practice of medicine. I attended the Genesee County Medical Society (GCMS) meeting to discuss strategies for addressing ERISA preemption when drafting legislation, participated in policy discussions that influence statewide initiatives, and represented MSMS as a student panelist. I also had the honor of attending a bipartisan event celebrating the passage of a balanced budget with Governor Whitmer, an important milestone that prevented a potential state shutdown and reaffirmed the value of collaboration in government.
Through this fellowship, I gained firsthand experience in the legislative and policy side of medicine, witnessing how advocacy translates into tangible changes that affect both physicians and patients.
Read Patrick’s full reflection here.
MSMS remains committed to supporting physicians at every stage of their careers, including during the demanding years of medical school. Student membership provides early exposure to organized medicine and the advocacy work of MSMS, along with valuable benefits such as leadership opportunities, policy development experience, advocacy training, educational programs, and free access to conferences, webinars, and CME trainings.
Medical students are vital to MSMS and the future of healthcare in Michigan. In partnership with students and physicians, MSMS has worked to streamline the student membership process and make it more accessible. As of May 3, 2025, the MSMS House of Delegates approved an update to student dues—from a four-year renewal at $300 plus county medical society dues to a more affordable annual renewal of $30, plus corresponding county dues.
The strides we’ve made in advocacy and health policy, including fellowship opportunities like this one, are possible because of the dedication and investment of our members. Each member makes a difference.