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Hi all
I am a third year podiatry student due to qualify soon. I am experiencing alot of confusion regarding which path to take once i qualify.
All of our studies relate to working for the NHS, no information has been provided thus far for those of us who are considering working in the private sector.
University advises us to work within the NHS to gain experience, however, i am still considering trying to build up my own practice. At present i have no wage so therefore nothing to lose financially, if i work for the NHS for a period of time to gain this 'experience' it will be more difficult to make the break, as i will be used to the monthly income.
Does anyone have any advice?
I need to know lots of information regarding things like, insurance, where do go? who is the best firm to use? and how much is it likely to cost. Where is the best place to buy instruments and equipment? Are disposeable instruments cost effective for those that have had experience of them?
Am I completely mad to consider stepping out on my own so soon after qualifying? I was a nurse prior to deciding on podiatry as a career choice and became disillusioned with the NHS many years ago, so if i can avoid it i would rather do so. Any help and advice from others who have done the same would be greatly appreciated. Thanks All, great site by the way.
:)

Dear :)

Are you a SCP student member? If so, contact Kevin Hill at the Society offices for a copy of the Private Practice Handbook or you can access it on SCP website. That will give you the answer to most of your questions and is essential reading for anyone considering or in Private Practice.

Regards

Debbie

I am approximately 27 miles from Manchester, about 40 minutes by car. There is a direct bus route from Manchester to my practice - the X43.

You are more than welcome to come and shadow myself and my colleagues at work within our Private Practice. We even open Saturdays so no interruption to your studies.

In a couple of weeks time, a group of Private Practitioners are getting together at a meeting. You are more than welcome to get in contact with me and come along and join in.

You can contact me on my email chirohils@aol.com

There is nothing like witnessing a private practice 1st hand and being able to talk to private practitioners about setting up in practice. The Handbook which Debbie Delves refers to is extremely useful and coupled with colleague support, this should give you a good idea of whether private practice is for you or not.

GB