Policy Fellow

Methodist Healthcare Ministries of S. Tx•San Antonio, TX

10d•Onsite

About The Position

The Policy Fellow is a full-time, 12-month fellowship role within Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ Policy & Advocacy Department, designed to develop emerging public policy and healthcare advocates. The Fellow supports all stages of the legislative and regulatory process, including research, policy development, advocacy, and implementation, with a focus on advancing health equity in Texas. The fellowship operates at 40 hours per week and includes significant engagement during the Texas Legislative Session (odd-numbered years). The position works under the direction of the Director of Policy & Advocacy and department leadership, exercising independent judgment in conducting research, drafting policy materials, and developing recommendations, with regular guidance, feedback, and approval from leadership. The Fellow will interact internally with the Policy & Advocacy Department, MHM leadership team, and other internal stakeholders, and externally with community partners, healthcare stakeholders, legislative offices, regulatory agencies, and national policy organizations. The Fellow will also participate in bi-weekly mentorship meetings with department directors.

Requirements

Enrolled in or recent completion (within the last two years) of a Master’s or Doctoral program from an accredited institution
Demonstrated interest in public policy, healthcare advocacy, and legislative processes
Research, analytical, and writing experience through academic or professional work
Strong analytical, organizational, and critical-thinking skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace
Ability to synthesize complex information into clear, actionable policy insights
Fluent in English (required)

Nice To Haves

Graduate degree in Public Health, Public Policy, Political Science, Health Administration, or a related field
Experience working with underserved populations or addressing health disparities
Experience with legislative sessions, advocacy organizations, or policy research
Spanish bilingual proficiency

Responsibilities

Conduct policy research and analysis within an identified policy area at the state and federal level (30%)
Draft advocacy and policy materials including fact sheets, reports, position papers, presentations, newsletters, advocacy alerts, and coalition letters (20%)
Monitor and track legislative hearings, regulatory agencies, and coalition meetings; prepare timely notes, summaries, briefs, and reports (15%)
Design and complete a capstone research project proposing a legislative or regulatory solution aligned with MHM priorities and equity principles (15%)
Assist with planning, scheduling, and participation in legislative and advocacy meetings, events, and coalition activities (10%)
Conduct outreach to community partners, healthcare stakeholders, and elected officials related to healthcare and policy initiatives (5%)
Present research findings and policy recommendations to senior and executive leadership (5%)