Thriving as a Subspecialist in Private Practice

In this episode of Voices of Otolaryngology, host Rahul K. Shah, MD, MBA, AAO-HNS/F EVP and CEO, sits down with Douglas D. Reh, MD, a fellowship-trained rhinologist and former academic leader at Johns Hopkins, who now practices as part of ENT Specialty Partners. Dr. Reh reflects on his journey from academia to private practice, exploring how subspecialists can succeed outside academic institutions while still meeting the broad needs of their communities.

The conversation covers Dr. Reh's experience building a thriving rhinology-focused practice, the challenges and strategies for balancing general otolaryngology with subspecialty work, and insights from his panel, which was held at the AAO-HNS/F 2025 OTO Forum, on subspecialty care in private practice. They discuss workforce considerations, referral-building strategies, evolving training pathways, and how to ensure new otolaryngologists understand both the clinical and business aspects of community practice.

Dr. Reh also shares personal lessons on mentorship, risk-taking, and professional growth, including his advice for early-career otolaryngologists seeking to shape their futures in today's changing healthcare landscape.

Resources: 

• 2023 Otolaryngology Workforce Report: https://www.entnet.org/business-of-medicine/workforce-survey/ 
• ENT Specialty Partners - https://www.entspecialtypartners.com/
• Centers for Advanced ENT Care (CAdENT) - https://www.cadentcare.com/