Almost there…
Some final things to consider as you approach starting a private practice:
- Always keep your practice clean.
- Make sure you have organised for proper waste removal . This includes the removal of medical waste and sharps. You must be able to provide your agreement documents with your dedicated waste-removers, as well as a summary of your annual waste (which will be provided by them). For more information consult the HPCSA guidelines provided in Booklet 1 and Booklet 12.
- You must keep all Schedule 5 and above medicines registered and locked away, only to be accessed by authorised healthcare personnel. All other medicines must also be inaccessible to patients except if given by you.
- Consider including a written patient-doctor agreement form for all new patients. Check out the HPCSA guidelines on patient consent (Booklet 4) and confidentiality (Booklet 5).
- Always have a visible sign to notify patients where they can go if you are closed, i.e., an after-hours or emergency facility nearby.
- Make sure your practice is compliant with the POPI and PAI Acts by consulting the guidelines provided by the HPCSA.
- Read through all the HPCSA Booklets on the Scope and Ethics of Practice that are applicable to you.
- The Alliance of South African Independent Practitioners Associations (ASAIPA) might be an attractive association for some to join for a monthly fee. Each province has its own association that forms part of the national alliance (ASAIPA). Find out which association is active in your province to decide whether membership would provide the kind of support you desire as a practice owner.
Please remember that the information provided on this page is not comprehensive, but merely aims to be a guide to help you get started on this exciting journey of starting a private practice. Top it up with your own research to ensure that you have covered your bases and set yourself up for success. All the best!
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