Q. Isn’t there a book or something that I can buy and achieve the same thing?
A. Unfortunately not, and that’s precisely why we developed this program. There are hundreds of books on the topics of marketing, practice management, profitability, floor plans, etc. but no concise collection of these materials for veterinarians. Additionally, it’s important to know which books out there are worth reading. You’ll need more information throughout the learning process, and we help you wade through the maze of both the good and bad information.
Q. Do you really need anything other than a couple of books to successfully start or buy a practice?
A. Just as a good law book doesn’t provide you with all that’s needed to defend yourself in court, likewise books alone won’t help. You need the help of consultants, and that’s what our consultant component provides. Expert advice from the experts. In fact there is over 6 hours of consulting sessions included in the program at no additional cost to you.
Q. Everything required for ownership is so expensive: equipment, advisors, leasehold improvements, and especially real estate. I’m not sure I can afford the SmartStart Practice program.
A. You can’t afford NOT to do the SmartStart Practice program. If you are borrowing three, four, five hundred thousand, perhaps even more than a million dollars, you will be accepting undue risk without having a clear understanding of the principles (beyond good medicine) that it takes to successfully run a practice. AND the participating lenders provide program graduates with an interest rate reduction, so ultimately they pay for the program! We even have a financing program to help you afford the SmartStart Practice program.
Q. I have been told that word-of-mouth is the best way to build a practice. What do you think?
A. While a good reputation is essential, it is a painfully slow way to get people to hear about you. If Nike relied on word-of-mouth they would still be selling running shoes to a few elite runners and would not be the world’s number one manufacturer of sportswear.
Q. Isn’t it enough simply to be the best doctor in town?
A. In a word, no. Every doctor thinks they are the best and the client has no way of knowing that you are the best or the worst. The client has to rely on mannerisms and appearances. You are as good as you look.
Q. What is the measure of high-quality service?
A. It is not enough to give better service than other veterinary hospitals. That is not how the public measures your service. The public compares you to Disneyland or a Hyatt Hotel or a Nordstroms. How does your service compare to Disneyland?
Q. What is the single most important piece of marketing?
A. Customer Service. If you want to improve your marketing, improve your service. Making your client feel good is the most important part of brand marketing.
Q. Does it matter where I borrow the money, aren’t all lenders basically the same?
A. Like all service providers, there are differences and many are distinct and critical. Working with a veterinary specialty lender ensures that the lender understands veterinary medicine, and the industry. Even within that group there are big differences in quality and performance.
Q. Should I buy or lease the medical equipment I need?
A. Ask our consultants. With years of experience, they have the answers to this question and more.
Q. I’m overwhelmed! I’ve searched the internet, considered opening a new practice, looked at buying a pre-existing practice, but I simply don’t know what I need to do next.
A. With the SmartStart Practice program, you will. And you should have the opportunity to practice better medicine, with more control of your life and your future than any previous group of veterinarians. It’s not easy to own a practice, but getting started on the right path is simple. You just call us.
