UMSN Faculty and Alumni Selected for Prestigious Health Policy Fellowship
Two of the eight health professionals selected for the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) Health Policy Fellows Program have strong ties to the University of Michigan School of Nursing (UMSN).
The fellows were chosen in a national competition for highly accomplished health, behavioral, and social science professionals who have an interest in health policy. Beginning in September, the fellows will spend a year in Washington, D.C., working on health-related legislative and regulatory issues with members of Congress and the executive branch.
Fellows from the University of Michigan School of Nursing:
Christopher Friese, PhD, RN, AOCN, FAAN, is a professor in UMSN’s Department of Systems, Populations, and Leadership. Dr. Friese’s research focuses on the measurement and improvement of quality of care for patients with cancer, as well as protection for health care workers who handle and administer toxic materials such as chemotherapy drugs. He is also a member of U-M's Comprehensive Cancer Center and Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation.
Daniel Ochylski, DNP, MS, RN, is the founder and chief executive officer of Independent Nursing Services Inc. He is a graduate of UMSN’s master’s and DNP programs. Dr. Ochylski’s focus is on multidisciplinary strategic planning and executive leadership for national and system-level improvements.
The fellows will also engage in seminars and discussions on health policy and participate in leadership development programs. Their experiences in Washington will enrich their understanding of public policy formation and the ways federal and state government relate to the mission of their home institutions and local communities.
“I am deeply honored to represent Michigan Nursing in Washington D.C., this fall, for what promises to be an extraordinary time for health policy,” said Dr. Friese.
The fellows program will commence with a three-month orientation, followed by a nine-month assignment in a congressional office or the executive branch, where they will be involved in health-related legislation and programs. After their Washington assignment, fellows will continue to receive support to sustain their development as health policy leaders.
For more than 40 years the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has worked to improve health and health care. We are working with others to build a national Culture of Health enabling everyone in America to live longer, healthier lives. Follow the Foundation on Twitter or on Facebook.
Adapted from RWJF and NAM release which includes information on all eight fellows.
