Among her many roles and accolades, Dr. Simon serves as the instructor for the MSHM core course, Health Policy. We asked her to share some advice with current and prospective students, tell us more about her work, and tell us more about herself.

Q: Tell us a little about yourself!
A: I have a large, noisy family. We are at kids’ sports events many weekends, especially baseball in the summer. My husband also teaches at the O’Neill School, and I like to cook very spicy food.

Q: How does the Health Policy course you teach bring value to future health leaders? 
A: No matter what area of the healthcare sector you are in, you will be affected by policies made by the government. The Health Policy course helps students understand why policies are made, what goes into deciding what action to take in a policy, by whom, and what role you play in the process.

Q: What are your research areas of interest?
A: I am working on projects or research initiatives related to opioid policy, covid, health insurance, and equity.

Q: What is the most helpful advice you’ve received?
A: Have short-term goals as well as long-term ones—I otherwise tend to only think of long-term goals!

Q: Do you have any advice for MSHM students who are about to become transformational healthcare leaders?
A: Get to know one area of healthcare really well but have a good working knowledge of the general area. Don’t aim to be an expert in too many areas, and don’t ignore the big picture when focusing on your passion areas.”

Achievements
• Herman B Wells Endowed Professor
• Associate Vice Provost for Health Sciences
• National Bureau of Economic Research, Associate
• Elected to the National Academy of Medicine