Above: A new five-chair orthodontic office in Chicago. Design and construction by Apex Design Build.
When it's time to choose a location for your new dental office, it's important to look at more than just cost per square foot. Many dentists get too caught up in lease numbers and overlook other critical factors. Here are four important things that should be considered when you are opening your practice.
1. Local competition
Consider the other dentists in the area and the ratio of residents to dentists. You can get an overall picture of the area by looking at an online map of local search results. Even though there are certain upscale areas that seem great, you might be missing out on bigger opportunities a few miles away.
At the same time, sometimes local competition can work in your favor. If there is another dentist nearby that is nearing retirement, then you might have an opportunity to purchase the patient records when the office decides to close.
2. Non-compete
If you have a non-compete in place, then you need to evaluate the proximity of your new office with the previous clinic where you worked. New dentists commonly get experience while working with a senior doctor, and it is often required that a non-compete is signed. Look at the terms of the agreement to be sure you are staying within the legal constraints.
3. Services and demographics
When you are opening a clinic, you should have a target demographic that you are trying to reach. Keeping this demographic in mind can help you choose the clinic location. For example, if you are focusing on cosmetic dental treatments, then you need to be in an area where residents have money to spend on these elective services. If it’s a pediatric dental office, then choose a location near expanding communities.
4. Accessibility and outdoor signage
How easy will it be for patients to move through traffic patterns to access your parking lot? Is the building tucked away out of view or located on a busy street? Compare the location with major highways and thoroughfares in the area. Think about office buildings nearby that might bring in business commuters. Also, consider where your business sign will be located because you get free advertising from the traffic on the street.
Even though there are many decisions that need to be made when you are opening a dental office, this process gives you the opportunity to create the best clinic to meet your needs. Be sure that you have an experienced designer and builder to work with so that you can listen to their advice every step of the way. Contact us to schedule a free consultation and learn more about the services that we offer!
About Apex Design Build:
Apex Design Build is a visionary leader in fully integrated design and construction of dental and medical practices. The Apex team is proud to include talented designers, architects, project managers, and construction experts. The firm provides exceptional value by combining design and construction expertise to mitigate risk, save time and cost, and create total accountability.
