General Academic Pediatric Fellowship in Advocacy

The goal of the General Academic Pediatric Fellowship in Advocacy is to train a new generation of physician advocates who will create successful community partnerships and integrate public health concepts into the everyday practice of medicine to improve the health of under-resourced communities. Fellows develop knowledge and skills in health policy, advocacy, community healthcare delivery, addressing social determinants of health and becoming community leaders within a supportive and cohesive learning community. The fellow’s training is integrated with a clinical pediatric program where they improve their clinical skills and learn a programmatic approach to address child health problems. Given our location in the nation’s capital, the fellows have unparalleled access to the local and federal government and to advocacy organizations, including national organizations with their headquarters in Washington, D.C. This allows unique advocacy experiences with groups that are influencing not only local policy but also national policy for children and healthcare.

The fellow is expected to finish a master’s in public health (MPH) in Health Policy or a Certificate in Health Policy if they currently have an MPH.  This is accomplished during the two- to three-year term. The fellow participates in various advocacy programs offered by the Children’s Health Advocacy Institute. During the fellows’ term, they are expected to accomplish an advocacy scholarly project and build an advocacy portfolio. The fellow is supported by the Children’s Research Institute (CRI) and the Children’s Academy of Pediatric Educators (CAPE).

The Children’s National General Academic Pediatric Program started in 2014. It combines training in research, advocacy, medical education and leadership. It is based at the Children’s National Goldberg Center for Pediatric Health. The fellowship program graduated seven fellows who have each moved on to establish their careers in academic pediatrics and local and federal health programs.

Highlights of Our Program

• Opportunity to network with other subspecialty fellows both within Children’s National, George Washington University School of Medicine and at other local institutions
• Access to strong research mentors supported by the Children’s National Research Institute and the Children’s Advocacy Institute
• Nationally recognized educational leaders
• Collaborative ties with local and national community organizations