The state of American health care. This is a topic that terrified me when I was in your shoes four years ago (Fall 2007 - the 2008 election was just a year away, and "the health care debate" was all the rage). Even now, after almost four years of studying the health care system, reading about it, attending lectures, and observing as patients and physicians alike navigate though it, I admit to being confused. It is nearly impossible to master this ever-changing system, and luckily no interviewer is going to expect that of you.
That said, some interviewers will be more eager than others to talk shop. It simply can't hurt to have a few comments to contribute. The best way to do this is to keep up with current events. I recommend making a point to spend about 10 minutes each day reading about health care policy in the national paper of your choice. For me, that's the New York Times (click the Health link), but the Wall Street Journal also has great relevant pieces, as do other papers and news outlets with which I'm less familiar. Having an "issue" oriented approach to preparing rather than trying to learn the nitty-gritty of the health care system will prove much more fruitful (and much more fun). While you're at it, you may find interesting articles unrelated to policy but very relevant to the topics discussed on the interview trail. Here and here are two of my recent favorites.
That said, some interviewers will be more eager than others to talk shop. It simply can't hurt to have a few comments to contribute. The best way to do this is to keep up with current events. I recommend making a point to spend about 10 minutes each day reading about health care policy in the national paper of your choice. For me, that's the New York Times (click the Health link), but the Wall Street Journal also has great relevant pieces, as do other papers and news outlets with which I'm less familiar. Having an "issue" oriented approach to preparing rather than trying to learn the nitty-gritty of the health care system will prove much more fruitful (and much more fun). While you're at it, you may find interesting articles unrelated to policy but very relevant to the topics discussed on the interview trail. Here and here are two of my recent favorites.
