There are several steps to complete when transitioning from veterinary school to a private practice, including getting licensed and creating a business plan. Disability insurance for soon to be veterinarians is another factor to consider during the transition. This insurance provides financial benefits if you become disabled and unable to work. Here are eight steps that can be included in the transition from veterinary school to private practice:

1. Get Licensed

A veterinary license is a requirement for an aspiring veterinarian to practice at a private clinic. This license is typically regulated and issued by state veterinary medical boards. After graduating from veterinary school, you can apply for a veterinary license through the state veterinary board where you intend to practice. This process may involve a practical examination, background check, and application fee.

2. Evaluate Your Financial Situation

Before transitioning to a private practice, assess your financial situation. Know your estimated income, monthly expenses, student loans, personal savings and debts, and future financial expectations. Understanding your finances can help you set achievable financial goals reflecting your income, outstanding debts, and future aspirations for your veterinary practice. It can also help you determine how much insurance coverage you need to protect your income if an injury or illness occurs.

3. Identify Your Niche

Consider your passion, personal interest, and field of expertise within veterinary medicine. This can help you start an animal wellness clinic that suits your specialized skills. You can also assess the local needs by identifying gaps or underserved fields in veterinary services, allowing you to use your new degree to meet these demands. You can offer specialized services like animal rehabilitation or target specific animal groups, such as exotic pets, reptiles, or birds. Identifying your niche allows you to determine what services your practice can offer, setting you apart from other veterinarians in your area. It may also help you attract a more targeted audience, building your reputation in that field.

4. Form a Business Plan

Developing a comprehensive business plan is another step in starting a successful private practice. In your plan, outline your services, target market, staffing needs, overheads, marketing strategies, and financial projections. A solid business plan serves as a strategic roadmap, highlighting your practice’s vision, mission, and goals. It provides a clear framework and direction for decision-making when establishing your veterinary practice.

5. Create a Budget

Creating a budget can help you avoid financial pitfalls when beginning your practice. During the transition from student to business owner, set a budget for expenses such as inventory, rent, staff salaries, equipment, and utilities. Include contingency funds for emergencies and unexpected expenses. Consider allocating funds for personal and professional development, including attending conferences, workshops, or courses to enhance your skills and knowledge. Being mindful of expenses allows you to manage your finances effectively, promoting financial stability as you establish your veterinary career.

6. Secure Financing

Securing financing is a key step in establishing your private veterinary practice. Look for help and funding opportunities for new veterinarians. You may want to consider options such as small business loans or grants and sponsorships from animal welfare organizations or pet food manufacturers. Choose a financing source that aligns with your practice needs and models.

8. Understand Disability Insurance 

As a veterinarian, having disability insurance protects you and your practice from certain unforeseen circumstances. Disability insurance protects your income if you cannot work due to injury or illness. It provides a steady source of income to help pay your bills and cover your basic living expenses.

Types of Disability Insurance for Veterinarians

There are various types of disability insurance for soon to be veterinarians. They include short-term, own-occupation, and long-term disability insurance. Short-term disability insurance policies cover you for a few months, while long-term disability insurance policies can provide coverage for several years. 

As a veterinarian, your job is specialized and requires various physical abilities and fine motor skills. Own-occupation disability insurance is designed to pay benefits when you can’t perform the work you are trained to do. This type of disability insurance can pay benefits covering lost income if you cannot practice veterinary medicine due to a disabling illness or injury. Discuss these types of policies with an experienced provider to determine which one suits your needs.

Learn More About Disability Insurance for Soon To Be Veterinarians

Transitioning from veterinary school to a private practice involves several steps. Getting licensed, developing a business plan, identifying your niche, creating a budget, securing financing, and understanding disability insurance are steps you can use to transition from veterinary school to private practice. Work with a specialized veterinary services provider to learn more about disability insurance for veterinarians.