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Information/Education Rep
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Having the vision: Starting your own wound care consulting business First Author: mary foote Authors: Mary Foote, MSN, CANP, CWCN Nursing had traditionally been a profession involved in working under the auspices of facility, institution or physician involvement. The recognition of the Advanced Practice Nurse as an independent practitioner by Medicare and Medicaid has brought to nursing a new opportunity for nurses to become self-employed. Moving forward, there is opportunity for not only self employment, but running a business encompassing employees. This presentation will describe the journey taken to develop my business, Woundcare On Wheels, Inc. in Chicago, Illinois. This business has been independently owned and operated by Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Specialists for the past 10 years. There is an abundance of written resources regarding administration or program planning and development that delineates what it takes to form a business. The actual development of the business becomes an evolution beyond what any book can prepare you for. Significant aspects of this business will be presented as an overview of what is important to not only business development, but survival in an economically volatile environment for all of health care. Key issues regarding the process of starting a business with a sound mission statement serves as the guide to direct the strategic plan, process of communication, level of commitment, quality assurance and employee involvement. Examples of what had worked for this business will be presented as well as pitfalls that were experienced will be realistically addressed. This business continues to change, develop and grow. This presentation should serve as an inspiration for others considering making this level of commitment to themselves and to their profession. |
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