How do I find out if an optometry clinic relies on visiting locum optometrists?
Ask who sees patients on each day of the week and look at recent schedules for names of visiting optometrists. Find out how long the locums have been coming, how they are engaged and how patients feel about seeing different people. If the clinic leans on visitors, ask how you would cover those hours.
Begin with the roster. Ask for a record of which optometrist worked each day over a recent stretch, including both the owner and anyone visiting. Count the days that depend on someone who is not on staff. A clinic with a steady locum is different from one that fills gaps now and then.
Next, ask about the arrangement. Is there a written agreement, and what does it say about notice, fees and patient records? Does the locum also work at other clinics nearby, and could they take patients with them? Have your lawyer read any agreement.
Then think about the patients. Do they ask for a particular optometrist? Do they return to the same one? Ask the front desk how often patients complain about changes of provider. Finally, ask what the owner would do if the visitors stopped coming. Hiring takes time, and a clinic that cannot easily fill the chair may have to cut hours. Your accountant can help you weigh the cost of covering them. Ask the staff how locums are scheduled and who looks after them on the day. A clinic with a calm, well-organized process usually copes better with change. Your accountant can help you compare the cost of locums with that of a permanent hire.
Key takeaways
- Count the days each week that depend on a visiting optometrist.
- Read any locum agreement and learn how easily it can end.
- Ask patients’ front-desk contacts how they react to changes of provider.
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Sources
This answer is checked against primary sources. Links were last confirmed on the dates shown.
- 01Business Development Bank of CanadaGovernmentHow to conduct due diligence when buying a business
- 02Business Development Bank of CanadaGovernmentWhat are the steps to buying a business?
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