Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kristamarie Collman. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Kristamarie, looking forward to hearing all of your stories 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.

My story of becoming an entrepreneur and starting the practice began in 2020. This was in the middle of the pandemic and unfortunately from the impact of COVID, a lot of people were not getting the care they needed, including things like routine care or even physicals.

I had just relocated to Florida and always dreamed of starting my own practice. As a physician in a new community without an established patient base, no business background, and the unknowns of the pandemic, I knew there was a risk but I also knew deep down, that this could be a great opportunity to help so many. So, I took the leap toward my own practice.

I initially began offering virtual care and the following year, offered both in-person and virtual visit options. It was also important for me to set myself apart from the hospital system-owned practices that many of us are familiar with.

In order to create something different, I asked myself: What is it that I look for in a doctor? What would I want for my own family? I also asked others around me: What were they looking for in their personal doctor? What did they like or dislike about going to the doctor?

I received responses such as “someone who would listen, provide more time, convenience, less paperwork, see the same doctor, wellness-focused, fewer prescriptions”. Those answers helped me build Prōse Medical & Wellness.

In medical school, you are taught how to practice medicine and become a physician, however, you are not taught the business aspect of medicine. Starting a practice has been challenging, but I have had to read a lot of books, teach myself various things, and talk to many other business owners who have helped me along the way.

My advice for a young professional who is considering starting their own practice is to tell anyone and everyone about your business. If you’re not excited about it, no one else will be! Also, know and understand what differentiates you from the next practice down the road. Ask yourself “What’s my special sauce? What makes me different?” because that is why people will come to you.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

The word “Prōse “is derived from the Latin expression meaning direct or straightforward, and I simply wanted to provide straightforward, hassle-free, and bespoke care. Prōse Medical & Wellness offers primary care, and we extend our care to various wellness and aesthetic services.

We package this into a subscription model which covers some of the services provided in the office. This means we use a monthly membership fee and do not require or bill insurance for visits. Patients do not pay co-fees per visit. This covers routine care, preventative physicals, chronic care management with conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, sick visits, and even some procedures. We even offer special discounted pricing on labs and imaging as well as the aesthetic services offered. We offer virtual visits, and in-person visits, which are included along with support to help patients to their health goals.

Patients have direct access to me, meaning they can call, text, or email , and I get the chance to really know people. This means I see fewer patients but get to spend more time with patients, listening to them instead of clicking on a computer or rushing through visits. I can also focus on taking a more holistic and wellness approach when treating patients. This type of practice benefits both patients and the doctor. It’s truly a unique experience when you come into the office.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

Other than solid medical training and continuous learning so that your knowledge is up to date, I think having strong listening skills and empathy are both critical for success in my field. People will tell you what’s wrong if you allow them to speak, and you simply listen. They also want to know they are in good hands, they are being cared for, and their concerns are valid.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

Utilizing social media platforms ( Instagram, TikTok, Facebook) has been helpful in growing the practice. One video or post has the potential to reach hundreds, thousands, or even millions of views. It is also cost-effective. I realized people are on social media all day and you have to go where people are. Creating educational posts or videos about our services and on topics that people are curious about has helped to spark conversation, connect with others, and attract patients to the practice.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://joinprose.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinprose/