As a busy practitioner, you understand the demands and juggling it takes to see patients in a timely manner while still maintaining high quality medical care. You also know the value of your staff in assisting you. But how do you keep your practice staff informed and up to date on changing pediatric issues? Who helps you provide the day-to-day guidance and leadership for your staff? In many pediatric offices, the practice manager is key to the smooth, efficient operation of the practice. Where do managers turn when they need answers, education, advice and support?

The AAP PPMA helps practice managers obtain the information they need from the AAP and from each other in such areas as coding, HIPAA, laboratory compliance, employment laws, etc. In some states, AAP chapters have developed their own PPMAs to assist with state-specific issues.

The PPMA has resources that may help you:

• A free LISTSERV for practice managers who work for members of SOAPM or who are affiliate members of the AAP Section on Administration and Practice Management (SOAPM)
• Regular surveys to have access to current trends in pediatric practice management
• A leadership team that meets regularly to address concerns and educational needs
• Access to Practice Management Online for practice managers who become affiliate members of SOAPM

If you or your practice manager are interested in receiving more information on organizing a PPMA in your state or chapter, please contact Heather Fitzpatrick, AAP Staff (hfitzpatrick@aap.org)