Hello, and welcome to the Section on Administration and Practice Management (SOAPM)! Although fun, this bubbly acronym in no way encompasses the amazing contributions and efforts of its members. SOAPM is packed with innovative thinkers and powerhouse physicians shaping the landscape of how we practice medicine. In fact, our immediate prior chairperson is now the incoming AAP president! Wow is right!
SOAPM is the engine that keeps pediatric office doors open across the country. Whether trouble-shooting office policy, procedures, staffing shortages, or managing a business through a pandemic – this diverse group of physicians bring a multitude of perspectives to the table to find solutions to problems that practices face. The physicians of SOAPM want all pediatricians to succeed whether in solo practice, multi-specialty clinic or a subspecialist - cue the song “We’re all in this together” from High School Musical. The section embodies the nitty gritty business of medicine and is always pushing to be more efficient, more effective and to do better, together.
We have a very active listserv. We host a half-day set of lectures at the AAP National Conference and Exhibition (NCE) every year along with several other stand-alone sessions. We have virtual webinars every other month, virtual socials several times a year, and an in-person social at NCE that is always fun.
For me, personally, SOAPM is my friend group and support team. When I’m feeling alone, wallowing in the struggles of practice, or conversely celebrating our successes, they are the people I want to call and share my experiences with.
I encourage you to consider being a part of this incredible section. You’ll hear it time and again, the cost to join the section will be paid back in double, if not more, within the first year. And that doesn’t speak to the innumerable benefits that money cannot buy. <3
Beth Gallant, DO, FAAP
bgallant@nrpeds.com