You will need to obtain insurance for all medical equipment before opening a clinic.
Clinics exist for weight management, obesity, urgent care, diet, sleep disorders, cardiology, blood testing, massage therapy, acupuncture, family planning and many other purposes. Regulations are different for each type. Opening a clinic is no different than starting any type of business. You need a good operational structure, a solid marketing plan, good financial backing and qualified people to do the job. You will also need to work with various agencies to get your business approved before setting up practice. The health care field has more stringent regulations than regular businesses because the safety of the population is at greater risk.
Instructions
1. Assess the various alternatives for starting a clinic in your locale. Match your abilities and qualifications with the opportunities where you live in order to identify the type of clinic that will best serve the market.
2. Calculate the start-up costs and develop a plan to fund your clinic. Funding should cover leasing, staffing requirements, taxes, medical equipment, marketing and office supplies. To attract more clients, opt for a web presence as well. Consider all funding sources, and evaluate and apply for the best options. Identify whether any grants are available and apply for them.
3. Develop a business plan, which will include the primary purpose of the clinic, location, funding sources, staffing and marketing ideas. A business plan will help you organize your thoughts and and get you started on the right track.
4. Apply for an Employer ID Number (EIN) through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website or calling 800-829-4933. Submit your completed form by fax or mail. Complete state filings by locating your state requirements on the IRS website.
5. Obtain the necessary licensing and inspections by contacting your state's health department, which can be located on the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website.
6. Obtain insurance for your office and medical equipment, as well as employee-related liability insurance. Since a clinic may require a high amount of capital, insurance is crucial and must cover everything.
7. Hire qualified professionals. Maintain quality and offer reasonable pay to attract the best professionals. You may need to hire professionals based on the hours that the clinic will be open. You may also offer four-hour shifts or night shifts.
8. Promote and spread awareness of your clinic through radio and TV stations. Join associations and organizations relevant to your type of clinic. Search for related journals and place advertisements. Locate websites, blogs and forums, and place advertisements. If you have a website, make sure the URL is part of the ads.
Tags: medical equipment, business plan, funding sources, place advertisements, type clinic
