We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Garen Wolff, MD a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Garen, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear the backstory of how you established your own practice.
Wolff Allergy and Asthma in Detroit was started because of the severe need of Allergist-Immunologist in the city of Detroit. The burden of asthma and allergies falls disproportionately on people living in Detroit. The decision between opening my own business versus being employed was exceptionally easy. I enjoy the autonomy and the ability to practice evidenced based medicine on my own terms. Additionally, I have been able to design unique programs like Breathe, a program that incorporates allergy shots and allergy drops for the treatment of seasonal allergies. Entrepreneurship is not foreign to me. It has been integral throughout my life. My father owned his own Internal Medicine practice for 38 years, while my mother owned a Kumon Franchise for more than fifteen years! In high school, I started my own non-profit organization, CityPrep Mentoring program. My non-profit was in existence for 10 years! Opening Wolff Allergy and Asthma in Detroit was a natural transition for me.
There were MANY steps I had to complete to establish Wolff Allergy and Asthma in Detroit. First, was the legal paperwork. I had to apply for a tax identification number and create a limited liability company. Second, I had to apply for the national provider identification number for the practice. This was used to apply for contracts with insurance companies. All of that work was not glamours, but tedious and time consuming. I wouldn’t do anything different. I advise anyone that wants to start their own practice to DO IT!!!
Garen, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am an board certified physician, published scientist, national speaker, and native Detroiter. I am both an Internal Medicine physician and Allergist-Immunologist. My goal is to provide high quality care in a warm and welcoming environment. As an Allergist-Immunologist, I help kids and adults get relief from allergy, asthma, sinus, food, and immune system conditions. My compassion and thorough physical exams make me a unique Allergist-Immunologist.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
Collaboration is key. I have been fortunate to be interviewed by national television networks like CBS and PBS. Additionally, I have been able to provide lectures to national organizations such as National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
Networking with other physicians in Detroit has also expanded my reach. People have been referred to me by dermatologist, primary care physicians and pulmonologist. This has significantly helped to build my patient panel.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
Perseverance continues to be my mantra. Building Wolff Allergy and Asthma in Detroit from scratch has been no easy feat. However, I networked with other physicians and community leaders to bring significant exposure to my office. I truly believe that it takes a village. My journey throughout medical school and residency was heavily supported by a multitude of family members, faculty and friends. Opening Wolff Allergy and Asthma in Detroit was a significant endeavor, from marketing to networking with community leaders and physician colleagues. I leaned on my faith in God, family members, faculty and friends for assistance. Each played different roles in supporting Wolff Allergy and Asthma in Detroit.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.WolffAllergy.com
- Instagram: WolffAllergy
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WolffAllergyAsthma
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/dr-garen-wolff-md-msc-14285a20a
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/WolffAllergy
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WolffAllergyAsthmaDetroit
