• Assist in the implementation of Presidential and Secretarial initiatives, Healthy People 2010, and ODPHP-specific projects.
   
• Experience first-hand the basis for national policy decisions.
   
• Assist in coordinating initiatives and policy documents among the various agencies within HHS.
  (e.g. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institutes of Health, Food and Drug Administration, etc.)
   
• Aid in preparing briefings for the Assistant Secretary for Health and the Surgeon General.
   
• Have the opportunity to serve on interdepartmental committees involving a range of specific topics related to health promotion and disease prevention.
   
• Understand the role of health communication in disease prevention and health promotion.
   
• Develop fundamental competencies in public health.

All persons wishing to rotate through ODPHP must submit an application, resume, and a brief statement describing their relevant background, applicable skills, and reasons for their interest in working in the Office. These documents can be completed and submitted online on the ODPHP website. It will take approximately 1-2 weeks to review each application. The most qualified applicants will be invited to interview in person or by telephone.

Preventive medicine and primary care residents are encouraged to apply for the Association of Prevention Teaching and Research Health Policy Residency Rotations at www.aptrweb.org.  ATPR does provide a stipend for persons awarded this practicum experience.

ODPHP will try to accommodate the majority of applicants. However, the number of applications varies throughout the year, and at certain times placement will be more competitive than others. Applicants are encouraged to plan ahead in order to be given full consideration.