Opinion

David Wolfe, MD, knows how politics can affect rheumatology. As part of the Washington, D.C.–based practice Arthritis and Rheumatism Associates, he is right next door to the movers and shakers who decide everything from insurance costs to how much reimbursement might be expected for bone density scans. But he’s a bit of a mover and shaker himself. Making partner while still in his 30s, Dr. Wolfe is young enough to understand the importance of changes but old enough to realize these suggestions must be made with passion tempered with patience. “If you’re in a position where you’re given a voice, you should use it,” he says. “The strength of our practice when you make partner is being a full voting member so you have an equal stake. Older members don’t always think of new ways of doing things procedurally, but you have to be patient with them and appreciate their experience.”