JONESBORO, AR (KAIT) – Medical students with the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine on Arkansas State University’s campus have a rare opportunity to peek behind the curtain.

A new fellowship program providing a hands on, inside look at health policy.

In a collaborative effort between the NYITCOM and Representative Rick Crawford’s office, students are going to be a part of the policy process.

Dean of NYITCOM at ASU Dr. Shane Speights said he’s thrilled to get to make this opportunity available.

“We are excited to partner with Congressman Crawford’s office on this exciting endeavor,” Dr. Speights said. “This fellowship represents another step forward in bringing quality healthcare to those who need it in this region by impacting policy and ensuring federal funds are making the impact they were intended to. This is an amazing opportunity for our medical students to be on the front lines of health policy and learn firsthand how to best advocate for patients.”

Each year, a third-year medical student can apply for the fellowship program.

If selected, the student will identify an area of research and work with Crawford’s office to obtain data and perform on-site visits for a true picture of the different funding streams provided by multiple federal agencies that grant funding to the Mississippi Delta Region.

“I am excited about this next chapter for the College of Osteopathic Medicine and A-State,” Representative Crawford said. “The challenges in rural America, especially in places like the Delta and across the First District, are significant and require an out-of-the-box approach to improving care and outcomes for rural populations. I am excited for these students to spend time in my Arkansas and Washington offices, working alongside our staff with the common goal to better serve the people of the First District and everyone across Rural America through this collaboration and insight with the NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine.”

The goal of this program is to better the health outcomes of communities.

The fellowship will run concurrently with their medical school curriculum.

It will begin in January of their third year and conclude in March of the following year.

For additional information about the program, contact Casey Pearce of NYITCOM by calling (870) 972-2656 or through email by clicking here.