Starting your own medical practice is a daunting process because of things like the complex and highly regulated nature of the healthcare industry, the high financial and time investment needed to establish and maintain a practice, the need for extensive knowledge and experience in medicine and business management, and the significant responsibility of providing high-quality care to patients. Still, whether you’re looking for more control over your work-life balance, financial security, or fulfillment from building meaningful relationships with patients, starting your own medical practice is commendable.
So here are some tips on what to consider when choosing a space for your private practice.
Location
When choosing a place for your medical practice, the location is one of the most important factors to consider. You want to choose a location that is easily accessible for your patients and staff, with ample parking and public transportation options. Also, proximity to amenities such as restaurants, coffee shops, and retail stores is a good idea.
To find the right location:
- Identify your target patient demographics – age, income, and location – so that you can narrow down your search to areas where there is a higher concentration of your target patient demographic
- Conduct market research on the areas you are considering to see if there is a demand for your medical services in that area
- Check zoning laws to make sure the location you are considering is zoned for medical use
Size and Layout
It’s important to carefully consider the size and layout of your medical practice’s space. You want a space that is large enough to accommodate all of your staff, equipment, and patients comfortably, with room for growth. Also, the layout should be designed to optimize patient flow and privacy.
To find the right size and layout:
- Visit multiple potential locations to get an idea of what is available and compare the different options
- Get the measurement of the size of each room, including the ceiling height
- Consider hiring an expert office planner or architect as they can guide you on the best layout, and design
Amenities and Infrastructure
The amenities and infrastructure of a potential space should also be taken into account. For example, you should look for a location that offers things like reliable internet, and security. Also, you may want to consider the availability of shared conference rooms or other common spaces that could be used for meetings or training sessions.
To find the right amenities and infrastructure:
- Research potential locations that offer the amenities and infrastructure that you need. You can search online, contact a commercial real estate agent, or ask colleagues for recommendations
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the amenities and infrastructure offered. Ask about everything from the reliability of the internet connection to the availability of property inspection services
- Consider your budget because the right amenities and infrastructure won’t require you to go way over budget. While it may be tempting to choose a location with all the bells and whistles, it’s important that you’re not overspending on amenities that you don’t really need
Finding the right space for your private medical practice is important. So be sure to consider location, layout, and amenities during your search.