The Private Practice Initiative (PPI) provides residents with an opportunity to care for patients in private practice, non-residency training site setting, and to learn more about how private practices function. First offered as an optional educational experience in 1998 by emeritus professor Dr. Joel Merenstein, the PPI program is now a requirement during the third year of residency and under the direction of Dr. Gretchen Shelesky.
Residents spend one afternoon per week working in a non-residency private practice within the Greater Pittsburgh community. Residents get real-life experience in practice management, one-to-one precepting, and valuable mentorship with attendings who offer unique perspectives on life in private practice.
Many residents tell us that the PPI experience helped them know what to look for when employment opportunities arise, and find this practice management education invaluable.