In this episode of the Private Practice Elevation podcast, Daniel Fava sits down with Michael J. Silva to discuss strategies for building a successful private practice without heavily relying on low-paying insurance contracts.
Silva shares his journey from experiencing early career burnout in corporate healthcare to establishing a flourishing cash-based sports medicine practice.
Alongside offering practical advice for navigating the transition to a cash-based model, Silva highlights the importance of finding your niche and over-delivering value to clients.
Michael details his process of identifying and eliminating unprofitable insurance contracts, emphasizing the importance of knowing your numbers.
By focusing on a motivated and health-conscious clientele, Silva and his team were able to build a thriving practice with a low cancellation rate and highly satisfied clients.
Silva’s insights provide valuable lessons for mental health therapists, physical therapists, and other healthcare providers aiming to enhance their business models and client relationships.
For those interested in scaling their practices successfully, this episode serves as an excellent resource.
Key Takeaways:
- Identify and Focus on Your Niche: Michael emphasizes the importance of targeting a specific, motivated clientele to reduce cancellations and increase job satisfaction.
- Know Your Numbers: Understanding the costs of running your practice versus what you get reimbursed by insurance companies is crucial for financial health.
- Build a Superior Client Experience: Over-deliver on value and create an exceptional customer experience to retain clients and build a strong reputation.
- Gradually Transition Away from Low-Paying Contracts: Start by weeding out the least profitable insurance plans while ensuring you provide referrals for clients you can no longer serve.
- Leverage Community Roots and Network: Utilize your local connections and provide content that positions you as an expert in your specific niche to attract cash-paying clients.
Links mentioned in this episode:
About Michael Silva
A business coach and consultant helping PT practices start, grow and optimize by focusing on an ideal client population and maximizing the client experience.
He was the owner and founder of FOUNDATIONperformance Sports Medicine for 20 years and grew it to three offices and 24 employees spanning MA and RI. In November of 2021, FOUNDATIONperformance was sold to and he exited successfully and is helping others do the same.
He is the creator and owner of the trademarked RUNstrong® program which is an in-person and online arsenal of information and programming for runners and coaches.
