Is it the right time to start private practice?
When I began my career over a decade ago, I sat at my desk in the local hospital, contemplating how I could expand beyond treating patients there. I felt drawn to working privately with people at a local gym, using my expertise in clinical nutrition to enact meaningful changes in their lives.
Fast forward to 2019. I stayed true to my clinical roots, advancing to a leadership role within the same hospital, overseeing two departments and watching my teams thrive as they developed into exceptional Dietitians, Diabetes Educators, and support staff. Despite my ongoing interest in entrepreneurship, fear and the comfort of success held me back from pursuing it.
However, the pandemic, work stress, and burnout eventually prompted me to leave the dietetics field for a sales position, leveraging my experience and desire to assist people in a different capacity.
In 2023, I returned to dietetics, realizing that sales wasn't my true calling. I understood that being a Dietitian, utilizing both my clinical skills and sales experience, was where I could find genuine fulfillment.
Today, I realize I should've made this transition sooner. By staying ahead of the curve in my field, identifying needs, and trusting in my abilities, I've created a unique service unlike any other. Fear often obstructs our path to taking risks, especially when financial stability for our families is at stake.
My advice to anyone considering a move into private practice in healthcare, whether as a dietitian or in another field, is as follows:
Research the demand for your services in your area. Knowing your scope of practice and potential client base is crucial.
Begin the lengthy process of applying for insurance panels early. Persistence is key, as it can take several months to secure contracts.
Utilize online resources and communities, such as Facebook groups, to navigate the intricacies of running a practice.
Develop a clear vision for your practice, guiding your decisions and goals.
Establish an online presence through a website or social media accounts, focusing on platforms where you can best connect with potential clients.
Understand that success may not come overnight. Embrace the challenges and setbacks as part of the journey towards building a thriving practice.
In retrospect, I wish I had embraced these steps sooner. Yet, I've learned that the journey is as important as the destination, and each experience has shaped me into the practitioner I am today.
The photo was taken last week is me sitting outside of my son’s appointment checking in with one of my clients as I support her in making meaningful behavior changes on her path to weight management and freedom from chronic dieting. Dream big 🙏
Your Vital RD
