Next Steps
The CPC will meet regularly moving forward to continue discussing ways to promote private practice. There is a clear need to make fellows aware that private practice can be a viable and fulfilling option. The group is looking at many ways to do this, including holding discussion sessions at fellows’ events.
The CPC will also explore ways to build a sense of community among current independent practitioners. One initial idea is to create badge identifiers at ACR meetings to enable attendees in independent practice to easily identify one another. The council will also look for ways to build an online community so members can share their stories, articles and podcasts, with discussion opportunities.
Talking openly about independent practice is an important first step, with more to come. After a first meeting full of bold, new ideas, the group is poised to put a spotlight on independent practice at the ACR.
Joseph Cantrell, JD, is the ACR’s director of state affairs and community relations.
