In our online course we cover almost every aspect of setting up a private medical practice, from practice management software and virtual PA services, to building a website, setting up google Ads, as well as key business information (for example how to actually set up a company and understand the financial jargon!). We think of it as a handbook and guide.

However, there are many intangible qualities that relate to you as a medical practitioner that actually probably end up being just as important determinants of success and failure for your fledgling private practice. So have a think: do you have these qualities or not?

1. Empathy

It is essential that you put yourself in the shoes of your patients, to really understand and share in their experiences. This will help you to form meaningful relationships with them, which are key for building trust. Only with trust can you hope to build a successful private practice.

2. Dedication

It is important that you are truly dedicated to your work, and see your patients as more than just a source of income. This means being there for them in their time of need, not just when it is convenient for you.

3. Commitment

You must be prepared to make a commitment to your patients, both in terms of time and money. This means being available for them when they need you, and not over-committing yourself to other activities.

4. Charisma

It is often said that people do business with people they like. This is certainly true in the medical world, where patients will often prefer to see a practitioner with whom they have a good rapport. This is down to charisma, which you can develop through your interactions with patients.

5. Leadership

A good private practice is one that is run like a business, and this means having someone in charge who can make decisions and provide direction when needed. This is where strong leadership skills come into play.

6. Clarity of decision making

When it comes to running a business, clarity of decision making is key. This means being able to make decisions quickly and efficiently, based on the information at hand.

7. Ability to form meaningful relationships with colleagues

A successful private practice relies on strong relationships with fellow medical professionals. This means being able to work collaboratively and share both ideas and patients.

8. Able to take commercial risk

In order to make your private practice a success, you will need to be prepared to take some risks. This may mean investing time and money into new initiatives or services, even if there is no guarantee of a return on investment.

9. Hard work and more hard work!

Running a successful private practice takes a lot of hard work, and there is no easy shortcut to success. You will need to be prepared to put in the hours, and make sacrifices, in order to achieve your goals.

So do you have what it takes? If you feel you do then the practical steps you need to take becomes much easier.