Setting Up a Clinic

Setting up a clinic is not an easy task. There are too many things to consider from furnishings to supplies, filing, and medical equipment. There are a plethora of options to be considered for each of the aforementioned categories depending on budget, individual needs, and preferences.  Also the process requires appropriate planning of space utilization. Furnishing and décor will vary according to the specialization of the medical practitioner. A pediatrician‘s requirement for furnishings and medical equipment will be different from an obstetrician. Also setting up a private practice is a lifelong commitment.

A medical practitioner has to live with the decisions made regarding the office space for at least 3-5 years. Because setting up a private practice will lead to dwindling of funds, all decisions should be made for long-term purpose.

Furniture

It is one of the crucial purchases that is required for setting up a clinic.

Waiting room/reception area

According to the specialization of the medical practitioner, the furniture of the clinic will vary. For instance, a pediatrician’s office will have small, colorful chairs for young patients; obstetrician’s offices will need comfortable and/or over-sized chairs for expectant mothers; a family practitioner will require chairs to accommodate patients of all ages.

Physician’s office

This is the workspace of the doctor. It needs to ensure maximum productivity. An ergonomic chair, mobile or fixed workstation, technology docking or public access computer are the basic requirements. Also appropriate filing and shelving cabinets will be required for maintaining all the medical documents and patient information. Various filing and shelving options are available such as the following: mobile file carts, track filing and rotary.

Exam room

The exam room is a central part of a doctor’s clinic and ought to be equipped accordingly. A medical practitioner should make careful decisions regarding the type of exam table or chair needed for his or her specialty.  A pediatrician may have a bassinet for infants. Proper storage facility should also be kept in mind. For medical equipment a list can be given to multiple vendors. This will help in getting competitive prices for the equipment.

Office Supplies and Medical Supplies

Although these items are common, they are essential.  Office supplies and medical supplies like syringes, exam table paper, tissue papers can be bought in bulk.

Setting up a clinic requires meticulous and detailed planning. If a physician is willing to spare some extra cost, an interior designer can be hired to set up the place efficiently and hassle-free.