In this podcast, Michelle Hardy shares some questions that practice owners and staff should ask before an NHS to private conversion.
There are certain crucial points a practice needs to have considered before deciding to go ahead with an NHS conversion. In this podcast, Practice Plan sales support manager Michelle Hardy outlines the sorts of questions that need to be pondered and the information to be gathered to ensure you will be informed when you make your decision.
The first question to be answered is: how many patients will I need? Every practice is different. To assess how many patients you would need to replace the income from the diagnostic portion of your NHS contract we would use an income replacement calculator. This calculation would also help inform your recommended fees and pricing structure.
What about your team? Have you discussed your plans with them? Are they on board? Do you have the right people in the right roles to help ensure the success of your conversion? It’s essential that your team members, especially front of house and associates, are ready for the change. Any concerns they or other team members may have should be aired and addressed. This will mean that they’re ready to play their parts in promoting your plan.
Your future relationship with the NHS
What will your relationship with the NHS look like in future? If you’re planning a partial conversion, what policy will you have regarding new NHS patients? Are there practices locally taking on new NHS patients? This could affect take up of your plan. Do you hope to retain UDAs within the practice or rebase your contract? If so, is there the capacity to deliver them and have you approached your local health board?
Finally, notice periods. How long is long enough? To return an entire contract your local health board would need at least three months’ notice, whereas a partial conversion can be done over a longer period. Like most things in life, timing is key.
If you’re considering your options away from the NHS and are looking for a plan provider who will hold your hand through the process at a pace that’s right for you, you can start the conversation with Practice Plan on 01691 684165 or book your one-to-one NHS to private call today at practiceplan.co.uk/nhsvirtual.
For more information, visit practiceplan.co.uk/nhs.
