After setting up a squat practice in the Midlands, Bobby Bhandal details the ups and downs of setting up a dental squat practice.
As a seasoned dental associate with seven years of experience, I found myself at a crossroads in my career. Despite enjoying my work, a sense of monotony had settled in, and the routine of performing similar tasks day in and day out left me feeling disillusioned with dentistry. The prospect of continuing down this path seemed uninspiring and I even contemplated leaving the profession altogether.
Driven by a desire for a fresh challenge and a renewed passion for dentistry, I embarked on a journey that would not only redefine my career but also shape my own unique vision of dental care.
This article marks the first instalment of a series chronicling the trials, triumphs and invaluable lessons learned during the establishment of my very own dental squat practice.
The turning point: a call for change
After years of serving as a dental associate, I realised that my dissatisfaction stemmed not from the field of dentistry itself, but from the environment in which I practiced. The repetitive nature of my daily tasks had drained the excitement and challenge from my profession, pushing me to explore alternative career paths.
It was during this soul-searching phase that I discovered a profound truth—I cherished dentistry and the relationships I built with patients. What I needed was a change of scenery, a canvas on which I could paint my unique vision of dental care.
Crafting something special and unique
The decision to build my own dental practice emerged from a desire to create something special and unique—a place that reflected my values and commitment to patient care. Starting from scratch offered me the opportunity to cultivate an environment where both my team and patients felt valued, comfortable, and inspired.
The prospect of building a practice from the ground up ignited a sense of personal fulfilment and purpose that had been absent in my previous roles.
The first steps: where to begin
Embarking on the journey to build a dental practice requires meticulous planning and strategic decision-making. The initial steps are crucial, setting the tone for the entire endeavour. Here are key considerations for dentists contemplating this entrepreneurial path:
1. Building a business plan
- Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining your practice’s mission, goals, and strategies
- Include financial projections, marketing plans, and a detailed overview of services
- Use the business plan as a roadmap for guiding your practice’s growth and success.
2. Assessing finances properly
- Conduct a thorough financial analysis to determine your budget and funding needs
- Consider startup costs, ongoing operational expenses, and potential financial challenges
- Secure adequate funding through loans, investors, or personal savings.
3. Finding a great location
- Research potential locations that align with your target demographic
- Prioritise visibility to attract walk-in patients and reduce marketing expenses
- Consider foot traffic, accessibility, and local competition when choosing the ideal location.
Conclusion: the birth of a vision
In the pursuit of building my dental practice, I found not only a new professional venture but a personal calling. The journey from dissatisfaction to entrepreneurship allowed me to rediscover my passion for dentistry while shaping a unique space that reflected my values and commitment to patient care.
This series will delve deeper into the challenges, successes and lessons learned, offering insights for fellow dentists considering the exciting path of establishing their own dental practices.
Stay tuned for the next instalments as we explore the intricacies and the importance of crafting a distinct identity for your dental practice.
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