How to Start a Medical Clinic

Starting a medical clinic from scratch can be a challenging task. There are several important issues that must be taken care of before you can start accepting patients. It is important that you break the project down into simple tasks so that you won't get overwhelmed. 

1. Comply with the legal requirements. Contact your state's Department of Health for information on how to obtain the required licenses and permits to start a medical clinic in your state. Apply for the necessary legal documents and wait until you are issued the permits to open a clinic in your location. 


2. Raise start-up capital. Approach financing sources such as banks, credit unions and venture capitalists to get funding for your clinic. You can also apply for local and federal grants through a website like Grants.gov. Contact the Small Business Administration for help in securing the funds you need to start your medical clinic. They have experienced consultants who can provide valuable advice on how to start a business and make it successful, including obtaining financing.


3. Get insurance coverage for your medical clinic. Talk to your insurance agent and purchase adequate insurance coverage including liability, medical malpractice, property, disability and workers' compensation. You can apply for malpractice insurance through the website called thedoctors.com. 


4. Decide where your medical clinic will be located. Look for places that have adequate space to accommodate your medical equipment, office supplies and a waiting room for patients. Compare several buildings to find the best one for a medical clinic, and consider hiring a business broker to help you find a suitable office space.


5. Purchase equipment and supplies for your medical clinic. Talk to other doctors and clinic managers you know so they can tell you where to get medical equipment. Compile a list of these equipment suppliers and contact them to purchase what you need. You can purchase the basic office supplies from office supply stores.


6. Contract with major insurance providers. It can take several months to get this process completed, so get this done early. Most patients choose to pay using health insurance, and you need to be able to accept their insurance. 


7. Hire staff for your medical clinic. Find providers, nurses, medical assistants and office staff who are experienced in working in a medical facility. Thoroughly check their background and make sure they are well-qualified and reliable workers.