We all have dreams of opening up our own business, but very few of us get the chance to pursue those dreams due to a lack of knowledge, support, funds, or ideas. For graduates beginning their journeys as future physical therapy clinicians, the goal of opening a practice falls in line with the same aspirations as all of us: wanting the funds, support, knowledge, or an idea. As you prepare your journey of starting a physiotherapy clinic, take the time to read through our best tips on starting a physical therapy practice.
Have a Primary Focus
Even if you had a specialty focus in one area of physical therapy, you need to dedicate time to developing the main focus of your clinic. For example, if you want to open your space to athletes, you’d focus on sports injuries. If you have a group of rehabilitation therapists that you plan to work with, you can incorporate their focus areas into your practice. If your practice has more than one specialty, we recommend leasing or purchasing a bigger office space.
Research the Market Around You
There’s a high chance your market is limited based on the area you currently reside. The first step in market research is to find out what sort of rehabilitation services your future patients might need and why they need to choose your clinic over another. Also, look at how your competitors are structured based on size, location, offered services, and how long they’ve been in business.
Get the Right Equipment
Whether you’re opening on your own or with a team, you need to purchase suitable equipment for each practice area. For instance, patients who begin their recovery process start in an exam room, so having a table to help evaluate a patient makes diagnosing a patient easier. Other pieces of equipment to buy include exercise equipment, balls, TENS units, resistance bands, and much more.
Clean and Set Up Your Space
Not all of us are skilled masters at designing interior spaces or even constructing a building. While establishing the area, consider hiring a designer or an architect who can plan everything from lighting to decorations, windows, and doors. Upon finishing setting up your space, you’ll want to plan out a cleaning checklist for your clinic to help it stay sanitized and in good shape.
Don’t Forget To Celebrate
It’s an exciting venture to open up a business, especially one that specializes in the health and well-being of the community. Don’t forget to celebrate this accomplishment with team members, family, friends, and even your patients as you begin to open your doors.
As you have learned our tips on starting a physical therapy practice, you’re now on your way to being a successful business owner and building autonomy throughout your career. Don’t forget to celebrate and enjoy being your own boss.
