The purpose of the Institute is to provide an opportunity for the seasoned, practicing federal health professional to examine some of the current issues in health care policy and management and to explore their potential impact on the federal health care system. The design of the course assumes a high level of conceptual knowledge and leadership ability on the part of the participants. Given the intelligence and sophistication of these selected executives, the faculty maximizes the learning experience by presenting materials resulting from research and experience, as well as examples and case studies from the contemporary national health policy decision-making process.