Employee to practitioner

There are different points in a physiotherapist's career when he will decide to set up a private practice. Before any physiotherapist decides to enter into private practice, he should spend time, planning and researching every aspect of this new career move.

Most physiotherapists who decide to set up on their own will have been an employee in either a hospital or in another physiotherapy practice. While in this position many physiotherapists decide to take steps towards setting up their own private practice. This can mean that working hours are extended and it can be demanding but it can give the security of a wage at the end of the month while you are trying to set up your own business. You can then slowly build up your clientele. Once you are happy with the income that you are earning from your private consultations, you will be able to quite your full time job.

Start out part-time

For practitioners wishing to start private work part-time, Physio123 recommend practitioners take advantage of our 6 month free trial. This will allow you to experience working privately knowing that you have the support of Physio123 to help generate more patients referrals.

Physio123 also recommend if possible try to involve your manager in your plans and negotiate a reduced working week with your employer (for example; working your weekly hours over four days instead of five and using the fifth day as your day to see private clients). Another option is to use Saturday or Sunday as your day to see clients, or to see clients in the evenings if your work schedule allows. Working full time while starting your private practice is a viable option however not one that you can maintain indefinitely due to the risk of overworking. Some physiotherapists are able to reduce their hours to part time or job share a full time position with another employee.

Your transition into private practice is also impacted by where you are on your career timeline. If you've just graduated you might want to consider finding employment where you can gain clinical experience, create a network of colleagues and professionals who may be an important source of referrals in the future. Other physiotherapists consider entering private practice part-time in mid-career as a remedy to job-related boredom or dissatisfaction.

Although it is less popular, some physiotherapists move directly from full time employment to private practice. Much planning is required to make this a successful transition, including the financial resources to meet your requirements. Maintain your connections with valued physiotherapy colleagues who might a source of support and sometimes referrals.