Hi all,
After much thinking and research, I have decided to look at going self-employed and setting myself up as a private physiotherapist. I graduated in July 2010 and after 7 months of being rejected for numerous NHS jobs (what an awful climate for any kind of jobs, let alone physio at the moment!), I managed to get bank work in a trust in North Wales. Luckily, this was extended and I ended up on a temporary contract for 10 months in a static post on outpatients. I worked across two sites, both in an acute large hospital and a community hospital - I was lucky enough to see lots of acute sprains and fractures, as well as many chronic conditions, particularly low back and neck pain etc. I feel confident working independently on outpatients now, and do have several close friends who were my seniors in my previous workplace who I know I can refer back to if needed for supervision and to discuss difficult cases.
I'm aware that I've completed nearly 3 rotations as a "junior" which most juniors wouldn't have (although I haven't done other areas other than as a student). Running a business does seem daunting but I feel I've been left with no choice. My contract in NW wasn't renewed and they could only offer me bank work, which I couldn't accept at the time due to renting commitments and the uncertainty of not knowing if I'd have work, no paid sick leave, job security etc. I've now moved back home and am living with my parents. Unfortunately, I can't afford to and don't want to move miles and miles away again, so that leaves my job search pretty limited. I have applied to all relevant NHS posts that have come up, in addition to agency/locum work. I've contacted all nearby private practices but most seem to be sole traders who won't take anyone on, even on a voluntary basis.
Initially, I intend to do domiciliary visits and treat people in their own homes as I have no space in my house to do so in a professional way with a view to eventually renting a treatment room locally once I have built a large enough client base. I have a portable plinth already and full insurance cover via the CSP, who I've contacted and read the guides that are written to help physios starting out in private practice. I intend to register with the information commissioner in order to comply with the data protection act and keep notes encrypted on my laptop and also locked away safely at home. I know I need to register as self-employed with the HMRC and have researched everything with regards to tax/self-assessment and so on. I'm in the process of drawing up blank assessment form/note sheets, appointment and business cards and leaflets.
Could anyone offer any advice/pointers or tips on things they think I may have missed? I found it so hard to get all the information to make this decision and there's so much to take in and plan...I am aware of my limitations as a businessperson (and as a physio!) but I feel quite positive about this all, even though I know it will be difficult at first. I don't feel like I have any other options if I want to stay local at the moment.
Sorry for the long post - I look forward to hearing people's ideas!
Thanks,
Fi.
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