Q&A with Elly Ranum, MD, assistant professor, Division of Developmental Pediatrics and Rehabilitation Medicine
Hometown: Waunakee, Wisconsin
Educational/professional background: I completed my undergraduate and medical degrees at the University of Wisconsin. I was a WARM student and did most of my medical school rotations at Aurora BayCare in Green Bay. I completed my pediatrics residency at the University of Missouri, followed by my Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics Fellowship at the Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment in Columbia, Missouri.
Previous position (title, institution): Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics Fellow, University of Missouri, the Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment, Columbia, Missouri
What is your field of research or area of clinical care, and how did you get into it? I work in developmental-behavioral pediatrics with an interest in autism and behavior. My position before medical school was as a registered behavior technician; it sparked my greater interest in this field. One of my favorite things about developmental pediatrics is that those in the field collaborate with an array of professionals in other specialties; the common goal is to help children lead their best lives. Our patients and their families are the best!
How would you describe your work to a 5-year-old? I’m a doctor who can help make it easier for kids to do things that feel extra hard. I can help with special ways to make it easier to talk, sit still, or make friends.
What attracted you to UW–Madison? I grew up in the Madison area and rotated through the Waisman Center as a medical student. I was drawn to my career by my work at there, and I knew I wanted to return to the UW. Once a Badger, always a Badger!
What is your favorite thing to do in Madison? Saturday morning at the farmers’ market on the square is always best with friends and a loaf of cheese bread! I also love the many bike trails and great hiking.
What’s one thing you hope trainees will learn from you and your work? I hope trainees will learn to interact with patients who have a variety of sensory and behavioral concerns. We also must collaborate with health professionals in other fields to make this happen. All children deserve good and easy care, and when we have the right training, that is possible.
Do you feel your work relates to the Wisconsin Idea? If so, please describe how. Yes! In developmental-behavioral pediatrics, we often collaborate with schools, government, and other community services to serve our patients. Partnering with government and community outside of our clinic is a critical part of the work we do to support our patients. We also have frequent opportunities to support community members and patients and staff in creating a more welcoming and adaptive community space.
What are some of your hobbies and other interests? I enjoy spending time outdoors and following Wisconsin sports, including Badger basketball, football, and volleyball — along with cheering on the Packers. I also keep a variety of houseplants and have a pet axolotl!