Fritzsche Internship in Health Policy

                                                            Fritzsche Internship in Health Policy

 

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) provides supportive, preventive, protective, public health and intervention services that protect the public health and assist our customers in meeting their needs; and assists families in providing for the developmental, health and safety needs of their children and dependents.

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Commissioner’s Office, is creating a new paid internship to advance health policy in memory of Kate Fritzsche, its first Director of Research and Evaluation. The Fritzsche Internship in Health Policy will offer a flexible, full-time work experience located in Augusta, Maine with some telework capabilities. This new opportunity shall consist of a three-month project (working between 20-40 hours per week) that will be based on work of mutual interest to the intern and Departmental leadership. While the specific focus of the project could span the work of the Department, it must directly or indirectly advance health system accessibility, affordability, and equity and deploy quantitative methods. The final project, along with how it has advanced the Internship’s mission, will be presented to, State officials, other relevant policy makers, and stakeholders, as appropriate, at its conclusion. Individuals pursing an advanced degree related to health policy may apply for this competitive summer internship. This is a paid opportunity offering $25 per hour to the selected candidate.

 

Kate Fritzsche was the Director of Research and Evaluation for the Maine Department of Health and Human Services from 2020 to 2022. In this role, which she helped to create, Kate immediately led development and review of projections and quantitative analysis to advance Maine’s nation-leading COVID-19 pandemic response. She contributed to shaping and implementing policies such as the Medicaid expansion, the State-based Marketplace called CoverME.gov, and other elements of the Made for Maine Health Coverage Act. She created a Data Coordinating Council, spearheaded efforts to collect data on race and ethnicity to tackle health disparities, and contributed her intellect, understanding of health services research, compassion, and values to critical work of health and human services in the State of Maine. Prior to her death on November 10, 2022, she was a mentor and role model to many, and will continue to be so in spirit through the Fritzsche Internship in Health Policy.

Applicant Requirements

 

·      Enrolled in an accredited graduate degree program related to health policy

·      Interest in advancing health system accessibility, affordability, and equity

·      Ability to deploy quantitative methods.                         

·      Demonstrable leadership abilities

·      Strong analytical and critical thinking skills

·      Ability to prioritize, manage time, drive results, and meet deadlines independently and collaboratively

·      Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

·      Proficient in Microsoft Office

 

To apply for this position, please submit your resume and cover letter by March 3, 2023 to:

 

Chris Monahan

Recruitment & Retention Specialist

Chris.monahan@maine.gov