Avenues for healthcare franchising are rapidly growing. From dentistry and live-in care to skin clinics and urgent care opportunities, entrepreneurs can find a range of options offering positive returns and steady business growth.
That said, read on to improve your chances for franchise success in the healthcare sector.
Follow the system
Part of owning a franchise is strictly adhering to a tried-and-tested formula. This can include directives on specific aspects of the business, including pricing, product range, branding, and design. Failure to follow your franchisor’s instructions can lead to financial losses and even legal trouble.
Franchisors have strict rules to ensure brand consistency across all branches. Remember, as a franchisee, you don’t just run a business. You also carry the name and legacy of your franchisor in everything you do.
Deviating from the system can lead to pitfalls the franchisor or other franchisees have already gone through and have created solutions for. Similarly, implementing changes on your own, especially when you’re still starting, could result in irreversible consequences.
Speak to your franchisor or field representative before experimenting with new strategies. Chances are, they won’t give you autonomy to adopt new practices unless you’ve shown your mastery and compliance to the existing system. Voice your suggestions properly and be honest about any issues you have about the current formula. Doing so can help you avoid costly mistakes and can even save your franchise.
Be strategic about your location
When it comes to healthcare, convenience and accessibility should be your utmost priority. Find a spot that’s easily visible from the main road, but also not too crowded, as road traffic can be a problem for ambulances and emergency cases.
If your speciality involves kids, find a spot near schools or residential areas. If you’re looking to open a dentist’s practice, place yourself near offices, where clients can stop by for appointments during their breaks.
Ensure there’s enough parking for both customers and employees. Check if vehicles can conveniently enter and exit any time of the day. The parking lot should also be well-kept and adequately lighted.
Also, your location should be accessible to the elderly and people with disabilities. Consider also if the roads leading to your facility is suitable for suppliers and delivery vans, especially if medical supplies will be heading your way regularly.
Your location should be accessible to the elderly and people with disabilities. Consider also if the roads leading to your facility is suitable for suppliers and delivery vans, especially if medical supplies will be heading your way regularly.
Use technology to your advantage
Technology has taken industries by storm, including healthcare. Today, patients and medical providers rely on digital tools and techniques to improve accessibility and quality of care.
If you want to stay competitive and build a loyal customer base, leverage technology in your marketing strategies. You could use a chatbot to answer health-related queries 24/7 or develop an engaging social media plan to extend your audience reach. Select the right strategies that will bring genuine value to your franchise and your clients.
Franchising a healthcare facility might seem easier to set up than starting one from scratch, but that doesn’t mean it should be taken lightly. Maximizing your franchise investment requires a great deal of planning, continuous education, and an unwavering ability to adapt.
