In this interview, we delve into the remarkable story of how Allyson Augusta Shrikhande, the Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of PRM (Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine), embarked on her path to success in the field of healthcare. Join us as Allyson shares her experiences, notable accomplishments, leadership style, and the values that have guided her along the way. Discover what sets Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine apart from other organizations, how Allyson navigated the challenges of her career, and her aspirations for the future. Get ready to be inspired by Allyson’s journey as a leader and her relentless pursuit of excellence in healthcare.
Introduction and Career Path
Allyson Augusta Shrikhande is the Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM), a healthcare organization dedicated to addressing endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain (CPP). Endometriosis affects one in nine women, while CPP impacts 25% of women of reproductive age and 10% of men. These conditions are as prevalent as asthma and diabetes but have been historically underdiagnosed and undertreated. Allyson’s personal experience with postpartum pelvic pain and pelvic floor muscle dysfunction highlighted the lack of effective treatments and inspired her to create the PRM Protocol™. This proprietary, patented, and office-based procedure treats chronic abdominal pelvic pain symptoms by directly targeting inflamed pelvic nerves and spastic pelvic muscles under ultrasound guidance, improving safety, accuracy, efficacy, and patient comfort.
Defining Success in 2024
For Allyson, success in 2024 is defined by the successful launch of PRM’s National Centers of Excellence (COE). These centers aim to improve access to comprehensive care for endometriosis and pelvic pain. PRM’s goal is to be the first national platform to build COEs that provide interdisciplinary, multimodal treatments under one umbrella. Ultimately, success is measured by enhancing patients’ quality of life and continuously improving the ability to do so.
Vision for the Future and Mission-Driven Approach
Allyson envisions opening more Centers of Excellence nationwide to expand access to the PRM Protocol™, endometriosis excision surgery, and integrative health programs. PRM’s multimodal approach ensures optimal outcomes for patients. The mission is to reduce the time patients suffer from pelvic pain and endometriosis, minimizing unnecessary medical interventions and improving healthcare efficiency. This approach benefits both patients and the healthcare system, setting PRM apart from others in the field.
Fostering Innovation and Overcoming Challenges
Innovation is a cornerstone of PRM. Allyson encourages monthly provider meetings to discuss challenging cases, review peer-reviewed articles, and share insights. This collaborative and open-minded environment fosters continuous learning and improvement. Allyson emphasizes the importance of adaptability, as seen in PRM’s ability to develop innovative procedures and protocols to meet patients’ needs effectively.
Resilience and Turning Setbacks into Growth Opportunities
Allyson credits her resilience to the conviction that PRM’s approach is the best solution for patients and the healthcare system. Using a data-driven methodology allows PRM to demonstrate the effectiveness of its treatments, building credibility with payors and employers. This focus on data-driven outcomes motivates Allyson and her team to expand the PRM Protocol™ nationwide.
Empowering Leadership within Teams
Allyson actively supports professional development by encouraging PRM providers to deliver educational talks locally and nationally. PRM providers are recognized leaders in their communities, helping to educate patients and healthcare professionals about innovative approaches to pelvic pain and endometriosis. Social media platforms also serve as educational tools, enabling providers to share peer-reviewed data and insights, driving awareness and change.
Influence of Mentorship on Leadership Approach
Allyson acknowledges her husband, Gautam Shrikhande, CEO of PRM, as a key mentor. His emphasis on clear communication, coaching, and consistent follow-ups has influenced Allyson’s leadership style. She values being open to feedback and continuously improving herself, her organization, and her team.
Addressing Global Challenges
Endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain are global issues, and PRM is committed to raising awareness and providing solutions. PRM’s NYC office has already attracted international patients, and Allyson envisions expanding the organization globally to ensure women and men worldwide have access to specialized care.
Impact of Emerging Technologies
Allyson sees regenerative technologies and amniotic membrane applications as potential game-changers for treating endometriosis and pelvic pain. However, she highlights the challenge of obtaining recognition and reimbursement from payors, which remains a key focus for future growth.
Balancing Risk and Growth
Allyson acknowledges that growth involves risk. She emphasizes optimizing systems and processes, such as intake procedures, operational workflows, and revenue cycle management, as critical pillars that enable innovation and sustainable growth.
Crisis Management and Preparedness
PRM prioritizes data-driven outcomes and streamlined operations to handle crises effectively. Allyson believes that maintaining high standards in patient care and operational efficiency prepares the organization to address any challenges that arise.
Employee Well-Being and Positive Work Culture
PRM supports its employees by offering a 24-hour call center, enabling providers to maintain a balanced 9-to-5 schedule without overnight or weekend shifts. Streamlined patient intake processes reduce administrative burdens, allowing providers to focus on patient care. Additionally, PRM celebrates team members with anniversary gifts and birthday recognitions, fostering a positive workplace culture.
Continuous Personal Development
Allyson engages in self-reflection and growth through PRM’s leadership book club and participation in women’s health leadership conferences. These initiatives help her stay informed and inspired as a leader.
Significant Achievements and Milestones
One of PRM’s most notable achievements is securing a patent for the PRM Protocol™. This milestone validates PRM’s innovative approach and establishes it as a leader in pelvic pain and endometriosis treatment. The patent solidifies PRM’s reputation for providing trusted, proven solutions that improve patients’ lives.
In Conclusion, Allyson Augusta Shrikhande’s journey as the Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and innovative spirit. Her work has transformed the landscape of endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain treatment, setting a new standard for care. Through her vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to improving patient outcomes, Allyson continues to redefine success in healthcare and inspire others to pursue excellence.
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