6 Easy Steps To Your Own Private Clinic!

Here's a step-by-step guide for pharmacists looking to start a private clinic:

1.  Deciding on Services

1. Conduct market research to identify local healthcare needs.

2. Consider offering services such as:

1. Travel vaccination

2. Weight loss treatment (AHT currently running early bird offer for travel vaccination training for £299+VAT. TPC Professional members get 10% discount)

3. Health screenings

4. Chronic disease management

5. Womens health

6. Erectile dysfunction

7. Aesthetics

8. ADHD screening

9. Minor illness clinic

10. ENT

3. Evaluate your expertise and resources to determine which services you can provide effectively.

4. Train an upskill in the services you would like to provide. Some services may require you to be an IP or ACP and others can be done through PGDs. 

   
   

   For help on selecting which services to provide check out this handy guide

2. Financial Planning

1. Develop a business plan and financial projections. (Check this guide on how to develop a one page business plan)

2. Secure funding if necessary (e.g., loans, investors).

3. Set up accounting systems and consider hiring an accountant.

3. Business Registration and Legal Consideration

1. Choose a business structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited company).

2. Register your business with Companies House if forming a limited company.

3. Register for taxes with HMRC.

4. Apply for GPhC/CQC premises licence 

1. Consult with a healthcare lawyer specialising in pharmacy law.

5. Ensure compliance with:

1. General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) regulations

2. Data protection laws (GDPR)

3. Health and Safety regulation

6. Obtain professional indemnity insurance.

7. Draft patient consent forms and service agreements.

4.  Facility Setup and Staffing

1. Find a suitable location for your clinic.

2. Design the layout to include consultation rooms and waiting areas.

3. Purchase necessary equipment and supplies.

4. Implement a secure system for storing patient records.

5. Determine staffing needs (e.g., additional pharmacists, nurses, administrative staff).

6. Develop job descriptions and contracts.

7. Recruit and train staff.

5. Marketing Strategy

1. Develop a brand identity for your clinic.

2. Create a user-friendly website showcasing your services.

3. Implement local SEO strategies to improve online visibility.

4. Utilise social media platforms to engage with potential patients.

5. Consider targeted digital advertising campaigns.

6. Network with local healthcare providers for referrals.

7. Offer promotional health events or screenings to attract patients.

   
   

   Check out this handy guide on how to create a marketing strategy.

6. Operational Procedures & Quality Assurance

1. Establish protocols for patient care and service delivery.

2. Implement appointment booking and management systems.

3. Create policies for patient confidentiality and data protection.

4. Develop a system for monitoring and improving service quality.

5. Implement a process for handling patient feedback and complaints.

6.  Regularly review and update your practices to ensure compliance with regulations.

By following these steps and seeking appropriate legal and marketing support, pharmacists can establish a solid foundation for their private clinic. Remember to stay updated on industry regulations and continuously assess and adapt your services to meet patient needs and market demands.