Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Anna Chacon. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Anna, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Setting up an independent practice is a daunting endeavor. Can you talk to us about what it was like for you – what were some of the main steps, challenges, etc.
Establishing my own dermatology practice was both a challenging and rewarding journey that required meticulous planning, resilience, and a clear vision. Here’s a detailed account of the early days and the steps I took, along with the challenges faced and advice for aspiring professionals.
The Decision to Start My Own Practice
The decision to start my own practice stemmed from a desire for autonomy in patient and virtual care and the ability to create a personalized and patient-centric environment. Having worked in various healthcare settings, I realized that I wanted to implement my own standards and approaches to dermatological care.
Key Steps in Establishing the Practice
Research and Planning:
Market Analysis: I conducted thorough research to understand the demand for dermatological services in the Coral Gables area. This included demographic studies and understanding the competitive landscape.
Business Plan: I developed a comprehensive business plan outlining the services I would offer, my target market, marketing strategies, financial projections, and operational plans.
Securing Financing:
I explored various financing options including personal savings, bank loans, and potential investors. Preparing a solid business plan was crucial in securing the necessary funds.
Location and Office Setup:
Choosing the Location: Finding the right location was critical. I chose Coral Gables for its accessibility and the demographic fit for my practice.
Office Design and Setup: I wanted the office to be welcoming and efficient. This involved working with designers and contractors to create a space that was both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Legal and Regulatory Requirements:
Licensing and Permits: Ensuring all necessary licenses and permits were obtained was a top priority.
Compliance: I made sure the practice complied with all healthcare regulations and standards, including HIPAA.
Hiring Staff:
Finding the right team was essential. I hired skilled and compassionate staff who shared my vision for patient care.
Technology and Equipment:
Investing in the latest dermatological equipment and a reliable electronic health record (EHR) system was crucial for providing top-notch care.
Marketing and Outreach:
I implemented a multi-faceted marketing strategy, including a professional website, social media presence, and community engagement to build awareness and attract patients.
Key Challenges
Financial Management:
Managing cash flow and ensuring the practice remained financially viable during the initial phase was a significant challenge.
Building a Patient Base:
It took time to build a steady patient base. Consistent marketing and providing exceptional patient experiences were key to overcoming this.
Regulatory Hurdles:
Navigating the complex healthcare regulations and ensuring compliance was another major challenge.
Lessons Learned and What I Would Do Differently
Delegation:
Initially, I tried to handle too many aspects myself. In hindsight, delegating more tasks to trusted staff would have been more efficient.
Networking:
I would have invested more time in networking with other healthcare providers and community leaders earlier to build referral networks.
Technology Investment:
Investing in advanced technology sooner would have streamlined operations and improved patient care from the start.
Advice for Young Professionals
Thorough Planning:
Develop a detailed business plan and be prepared for contingencies.
Seek Mentorship:
Find mentors who can provide guidance and insights based on their experiences.
Focus on Patient Care:
Always prioritize patient care and build a practice culture centered around compassion and excellence.
Continuous Learning:
Stay updated with the latest advancements in your field and be open to adopting new technologies and practices.
Work-Life Balance:
Establish boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout.
Starting my own practice was a monumental task, but the satisfaction of building something from the ground up and positively impacting my patients’ lives made it all worthwhile.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Certainly! Here’s a detailed introduction about myself and my dermatology practice for those who may not have read about me before:
About Me:
My name is Dr. Anna Chacon, and I am a board-certified dermatologist based in Coral Gables, Florida. I have always had a passion for medicine and a particular interest in dermatology, which led me to pursue this specialty. After completing my medical education and training, I decided to establish my own practice to provide personalized and comprehensive dermatological care.
How I Got Into Dermatology:
My journey into dermatology began during my medical school rotations, where I was fascinated by the complexity of skin conditions and the impact they have on patients’ lives. The ability to diagnose and treat a wide range of skin, hair, and nail disorders while also performing cosmetic procedures appealed to both my scientific curiosity and my desire to help others. This combination of medical and aesthetic care inspired me to specialize in dermatology.
Services Provided:
At my practice, we offer a full spectrum of dermatological services, including:
Medical Dermatology: Treatment for conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer, and more.
Surgical Dermatology: Procedures including skin biopsies, excisions of skin lesions, and Mohs surgery for skin cancer.
Cosmetic Dermatology: Non-invasive treatments such as Botox, fillers, chemical peels, laser therapy, and microneedling.
Pediatric Dermatology: Specialized care for skin conditions in infants, children, and adolescents.
Teledermatology: Remote consultations and follow-ups for patient convenience.
Problems Solved for Clients:
Dermatological issues can significantly affect a person’s quality of life and self-esteem. We address a variety of skin concerns, from chronic conditions like psoriasis and eczema to acute issues like rashes and infections. Our cosmetic services help clients achieve their aesthetic goals, enhancing their confidence and overall well-being. We also prioritize skin cancer prevention and early detection, offering screenings and education to reduce the risk of serious outcomes.
What Sets Us Apart:
Personalized Care: We take the time to understand each patient’s unique needs and tailor our treatments accordingly.
Comprehensive Services: Our wide range of medical, surgical, and cosmetic services allows us to address all aspects of dermatological health.
Advanced Technology: We employ the latest dermatological tools and techniques to provide the best possible care.
Patient Education: We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge about their skin conditions and treatment options.
Compassionate Approach: Our friendly and professional staff create a welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable and valued.
Proud Accomplishments:
I am most proud of the positive impact our practice has had on the lives of our patients. Seeing their skin health improve and their confidence grow is incredibly rewarding. Additionally, I am proud of building a practice that is known for its excellence in patient care and innovative treatments.
Key Messages for Potential Clients:
Commitment to Excellence: We are dedicated to providing the highest standard of care in dermatology.
Holistic Approach: We consider the overall well-being of our patients, offering treatments that address both medical and cosmetic concerns.
Accessibility: With our teledermatology services, expert care is accessible even to those who may find it difficult to visit in person.
Continual Learning: We stay updated with the latest advancements in dermatology to ensure our patients benefit from cutting-edge treatments.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and my practice. We look forward to helping you achieve and maintain healthy, beautiful skin. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us at 305-902-5733 or visit us at 135 Madeira Avenue, Coral Gables, FL, 33134.
Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?
Absolutely, if I could go back, I would choose the same profession and specialty without hesitation. Here’s why:
From the moment I embarked on my medical journey, dermatology captivated me. The field’s unique blend of medical, surgical, and aesthetic elements offers a diverse and dynamic practice that keeps me constantly engaged and challenged. Treating a wide range of conditions, from skin cancer to cosmetic concerns, allows me to make a tangible difference in my patients’ lives every day.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my career is witnessing the positive transformations in my patients. Whether it’s alleviating the discomfort of a chronic skin condition, improving the appearance of scars, or performing life-saving procedures, the impact on my patients’ health and self-esteem is profound. These experiences reaffirm my choice and fuel my passion for dermatology.
Dermatology is a rapidly evolving field with continuous advancements in treatments and technologies. This constant evolution keeps me intellectually stimulated and committed to lifelong learning. Staying at the forefront of these developments ensures that I can provide the best possible care to my patients.
My practice allows me to build long-term relationships with my patients, understanding their unique needs and tailoring treatments to achieve optimal outcomes. The trust and rapport established over time are incredibly fulfilling and form the foundation of effective patient care.
Work-Life Balance
Dermatology offers a balance that allows me to dedicate time to my patients while also maintaining personal well-being. This balance is crucial in preventing burnout and ensuring that I can provide compassionate and attentive care.
In summary, choosing dermatology has been one of the best decisions of my life. The ability to combine medical expertise with aesthetic artistry, the joy of seeing patients thrive, and the ongoing opportunities for growth and learning make this specialty truly fulfilling. If given the chance to choose again, I would undoubtedly follow the same path, reaffirming my commitment to enhancing skin health and well-being for my patients.
For those considering a career in dermatology or seeking expert care, I invite you to experience the comprehensive and compassionate services we offer at my practice. Feel free to reach out to us at 305-902-5733 or visit us at 135 Madeira Avenue, Coral Gables, FL, 33134.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
wanted to take a moment to share the story of a significant pivot in my practice that has been both challenging and rewarding.
In the early days of my practice, I embraced telemedicine as the primary mode of delivering dermatological care. The convenience and accessibility of virtual consultations allowed me to reach patients far and wide, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when in-person visits were limited. Telemedicine proved to be an invaluable tool, enabling me to provide expert advice and care to those who needed it most.
However, as the situation around the pandemic improved and restrictions were lifted, I began to notice certain limitations inherent in telemedicine. While virtual consultations are effective for initial assessments and follow-ups, they often fall short in providing comprehensive skin evaluations and certain procedural treatments that require a hands-on approach. I realized that to continue providing the highest quality care, I needed to offer my patients the option of in-person visits.
In 2023, I made the decision to pivot my practice by opening an in-person dermatology clinic at 135 Madeira Avenue, Coral Gables, FL. This was a significant transformation for my practice, requiring substantial investment, careful planning, and a dedicated team. The new clinic is a state-of-the-art facility designed to provide a welcoming and comfortable environment for all our patients.
The transition from a primarily virtual practice to a physical clinic was not without its challenges. We had to navigate logistics such as leasing and outfitting the clinic space, hiring additional staff, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations. Communicating these changes to my existing patients and the broader community was also a critical part of the process.
The effort has been incredibly rewarding. The in-person clinic now allows us to perform thorough skin examinations, conduct biopsies, and offer treatments that were not feasible through telemedicine. Patients appreciate the personal touch and the ability to receive comprehensive dermatological care under one roof. At the same time, we continue to offer the convenience of telemedicine for follow-ups and less complex consultations, striking a perfect balance between accessibility and comprehensive care.
This pivot has not only enhanced the quality of care we provide but also strengthened our relationship with our patients. Embracing change and innovation has allowed us to grow and better meet the needs of those we serve.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://drannachacon.com/
- Instagram: @miamiderm
- Facebook: @miamiderm
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miamiderm/
- Twitter: @miamiderm
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@miamiderm/videos
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/anna-chacon-md-coral-gables-4
