Bert, what you are trying to do here is a good thing that could provide benefit to all. You get the patients you want, the patients who need the service in the community gain access to it, and other docs in the area may like it, too (I would guess that even among your competition, there are some who do not like seeing ADHD patients or who aren't good at it, and might like to send you patients). Certainly it would be a relief to some parents to know that you are both interested and skilled in managing their kids.
The key is to advertise it honestly and without pissing people off. I suppose the key is to avoid certain buzz words. As you say, you would never claim a board certification you do not have. I guess a tricky phrase is "specializing in". There was a time this was commonly done, but now I think the connotation is something more official than just clinical experience and interest, or even skill. One alternative would be to say "a concentration" rather than a specialization.
Beyond that though, say what you want... the truth is always nice!
"My thirty years in practice includes a concentration in dealing with children with psychological issues. I have an especially large experience in treating ADHD. Though this condition is particularly challenging, I have found it very rewarding and have had much success in treating it over the years".
"I have a special interest in seeing children with ....."
"I have several decades of experience diagnosing and successfully treating children with..."
"Referrals are encouraged. If you are concerned, but not certain that a child is experiencing one of these conditions, a physician with my experience can help clarify the diagnosis and treat the problem."
Final word of advice... don't be shy!
Last edited by JBS; 05/28/2020 5:31 PM.
