A question practitioners may ask is whether PAG care can exist in a private practice model or is it better to exist in an academic setting. Many of us have been practicing PAG for years in a private practice setting. We started this SIG to bring together everyone with an interest in private practice PAG.

We want to reach out and be able to mentor physicians finishing residencies, PAG fellowships, and join with those already in practice who are interested in this avenue. We can learn from each other and share keys to successfully practice PAG in private practice.

A PAG practice can be tailored to someone’s interests, skill set, availability of other specialists, and training. A private practitioner can also be involved with teaching medical students and residents. One suggestion- offer in office rotations. We can offer to present grand rounds at nearby hospitals.

We have numerous training options now- the NASPAG website and ACRM, textbooks, other courses. The list serve is a very helpful aid to keep practitioners in touch with each other.

The SIG has previously discussed topics such as above, and how to recruit patients, form and maintain relationships with local pediatricians and pediatric specialists. We have discussed how to form a network of specialists to be able to offer comprehensive care to our patients. Notifying our OB/Gyn colleagues of our interest and ability to care for young ladies is important.

Creating a safe and comfortable environment in our offices is very important. Staff may need additional training to interact with PAG patients.

Coding is a problem for all who practice PAG regardless of the setting. NASPAG has a committee working on this. We should have input as private practitioners.

We have also discussed social media as a tool to get the word out and to help educate our patients.
We hope you will join us on our quest to offer PAG care in as many realms as possible.

Led by Susan Kaufman and Diane Synder. To join the Private Practice SIG, contact [email protected].