How to Become a Healthcare Consultant

Some managers cringe when they hear the word "consultant." It often means someone will critique their work with no liability or responsibility to solve the problem. Good consultants, however, serve a great role in many industries. Healthcare lends itself to lots of consultant work. Doctors, nurses and even therapists can often transition from direct patient care into reputable careers as healthcare consultants. Whatever the path, there are key steps in becoming a healthcare consultant.

Instructions

Become a Healthcare Consultant

• 1

  Gain experience in the field. Healthcare is very broad, so it is crucial to develop a specialty area. Homecare, hospitals and nursing homes are all areas of specialty. Specialties can also be developed related to profession. Nurses can consult on the needs that nurses have related to patient care or documentation. Doctors may consult on the ongoing steps to reduce malpractice premiums and how to avoid malpractice claims. Many who have years of healthcare experience, but don't posses a professional medical license, may consult of the administrative aspects related to the healthcare industry.

• 2

  Develop a marketing plan for the consulting business. Marketing plans are often subject to funds available to implement a marketing plan. All marketing plans should incorporate a web presence. Create an interactive website that has message boards for those eager to discuss topics related to the consultant's specialty. Contact information is crucial as well. Make sure all queries are returned ASAP.

• 3

  Create a network of experts. Being a consultant doesn't mean that one person has all the answers. It does mean, however, that a good consultant knows where to find the answers. Over the years, consultants encounter people who have expertise in compliance or direct patient care that may be useful when consulting with clients. Nurture relationships with experts, and provide help to them when requested. They will come in handy.

• 4

  Build a potential client list. This can come from any number of places. The Yellow Pages provide listing of several healthcare organizations. Healthcare trade organizations like the National Association of Home Care have listings available. In most cases, consultants will need to become a member. Some organizations may prohibit the sharing of lists. It is important to be creative about finding potential clients.

• 5

  Write in the healthcare consultant's specialty. Local newspapers often allow local citizens to write in op-ed sections. Editors may also be queried about writing a specific article for a newspaper. It is important to query newspaper editors differently than magazine editors. Newspapers usually have a faster turnaround, and article topics are time sensitive. Magazines have editorial schedules with specific topics that are discussed at specific times throughout the year. Healthcare magazines are found in the latest edition of "Writer's Market."

• 6

  Join advocacy groups. Consultants are usually as successful as their ability to network. Advocacy groups allow more networks to pull from for potential networking. The Cancer Society, for example, would be necessary for any consultant dealing with oncologists on a regular basis. The Internet has opened up the access to advocacy groups. Many groups have boards available online where consultants can answer posts and show their expertise and gain new clients.