In this episode of "DPC Pediatrician," Dr. Phil Boucher and Dr. Marina Capella dive into a topic that every pediatrician considering Direct Primary Care (DPC) wants to know: How long does it take to become profitable? They discuss the financial realities of starting a DPC practice, sharing their experiences and offering insights into the factors influencing profitability. From planning for slower months to knowing your overhead costs, this episode provides actionable advice for anyone navigating the financial side of DPC.

Key Highlights:

* Dr. Marina shares her experience of taking longer than expected to become profitable, emphasizing the importance of having financial safety nets and being prepared for a slow start.

* Discussion on how having side gigs or other income streams can help stabilize finances during the first year of DPC.

* Dr. Phil explains the significant costs of running a practice, highlighting major expenses for rent, vaccines, staff, and technology.

* Tips for reducing overhead, such as starting with home visits or virtual care, to accelerate profitability.

* Insights into patient acquisition and why it’s essential to manage expectations around how many patients will follow from previous practices.

* Practical advice on planning for long-term financial success, including budgeting for personal and clinic expenses and considering lines of credit.

* Emphasis on being patient, flexible, and willing to try different strategies to attract patients and grow the practice sustainably.

Becoming profitable in a DPC practice takes time, and every journey is different. Whether you're aiming for profitability within six months or preparing for a longer road, this episode offers valuable tips to help you plan and manage your practice’s financial health.

Don’t forget to tune in for more insights on building a thriving DPC practice!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dpcpediatricians.substack.com