Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) plays an important role as an alternative diagnostic modality to surgery. Pathologists interested in this patient-oriented procedure have an opportunity to offer it through a hospital affiliation or a private practice. The latter introduces challenges inherent in the development of any clinical discipline. However, FNA represents a distinctive practice development opportunity because it embodies a patient service that is not yet widely available, provides greater contact between patients and pathologists, and enhances the use of other pathology services. This article encourages the reader to consider the challenges and rewards of the patient-oriented practice of an "interventional cytopathologist."