What does it mean to be a policy fellow for the ISMA?
As a Health Policy Fellow, I work with the Government Relations department, where I help research, review, and collaborate with ISMA staff on resolutions submitted by physicians and medical students. Throughout this process, I’ve also been learning how important advocacy and legislation are when it comes to shaping and improving the future of medicine.

What is your favorite thing you've done in the role? 
I had the privilege of being invited to the Statehouse to witness the official signing of Senate Enrolled Act 475, which bans non-compete clauses in all new physician contracts with hospitals. This was a major milestone for physicians and a historic moment in healthcare legislation. As a medical student aspiring to become a physician, it was truly an honor to be part of such an impactful event.

It was also a great experience meeting the key individuals who helped make this happen, including Representative Ethan Manning and Senator Justin Busch. What made the day even more special was reconnecting with Sen. Tyler Johnson, DO, one of the bill’s authors and the first physician I ever shadowed back in 2018. It was incredibly rewarding to see someone who helped inspire my path into medicine now working to protect future physicians through policy.

What has been your biggest challenge?
I am still relatively new to organized medicine, having joined ISMA just last year. When I began exploring this aspect of the medical field, I was immediately fascinated by the policy side of health care. Coming from a background as a healthcare worker, this shift in perspective has been especially meaningful; now, I have the opportunity to understand and engage with the policies and legislation that directly impact the care I’ve previously been a part of delivering.

One of the greatest challenges I’ve encountered has been the extensive background research required to ensure that the resolutions we review are thoughtfully crafted and aligned with ISMA’s mission. It has been both a learning experience and a rewarding responsibility to contribute to this important work.

How has being a policy fellow changed the way you will approach advocacy?
As a Health Policy Fellow, I conduct in-depth background research related to legislation, existing policies, and the evolving landscape of medicine, healthcare, and politics. This experience has significantly broadened my understanding of organized medicine and deepened my appreciation for the many factors involved in crafting effective resolutions.

Through this fellowship, I’ve developed a more intuitive and curious approach to evaluating how resolutions impact their intended audiences and contribute to meaningful change in the field. I’ve also gained a strong understanding of the resolution-writing process — not just the technical steps, but what it truly takes to draft one that is effective, thoughtful, and impactful.

Ultimately, this experience has fueled my passion for advocacy. I now have a greater awareness of the challenges and opportunities facing healthcare today, and I’m more motivated than ever to continue advocating for meaningful change in medicine.

What would be your advice to students wanting to get more involved with the ISMA, even outside of being a fellow? 
Being involved in organized medicine has shown me that I have a voice, and that even as a medical student, I can advocate and contribute meaningfully to the future of healthcare for both my colleagues and future patients. I encourage other students to get involved in organized medicine, because it empowers them to turn ideas into action. With effort, collaboration, and the right support, a simple idea can grow into a resolution that drives real, positive change in medicine.

ISMA plays a vital role in this process, not only by helping bring these ideas to life but also by offering countless opportunities to connect with physicians and others dedicated to improving healthcare. One of the most rewarding aspects of my involvement has been the relationships I’ve built — meeting students from other schools, engaging with physicians from various hospitals, and collaborating on impactful resolutions.

Through these experiences, I’ve gained not only valuable connections but also the opportunity to help shape the future of medicine. Joining ISMA and being involved in organized medicine has truly been one of the most meaningful parts of my medical school journey.