Becoming a nurse in business can be a different process for a medical professional who plans to work for a hospital or private practice. Many nurses are choosing entrepreneurship to remain flexible, to be their own boss, or simply because they can’t find a full-time position in a private practice or hospital. Nurse Entrepreneurship (NE) opens doors that traditional positions cannot. Nurses should consider starting their own business if working five to six days a week rotating shifts is not ideal.
Advantages of Nursing Entrepreneurship
flexibility.
Flexibility is a great reason to consider this occupation. NEs work as often or as little as they want. They apply for and accept assignments as assignments become available. Some months, the schedules resemble part-time work. Other months, the schedules can resemble full-time work. If nurses need more time to focus on the personal aspects of their lives, they may reduce the number of hours and work part-time. The choice depends entirely on the NE.
No boss.
Nurses in business have clients, not bosses. Nurses have to respect the wishes of their clients, but nurses are in business for themselves. NEs do not receive benefits or a predetermined salary. Instead, they are paid per task completed.
If a business nurse doesn’t have a client, they won’t get paid. This is comforting for some people and uncomfortable for others. Nurses must constantly seek out new clients to ensure they earn the amount of money they feel they deserve. Nurse entrepreneurship offers more autonomy and empowerment.
Ability to choose assignments.
Most of the assignments are part-time jobs. Doctors may need a nurse to be on staff during peak hours in an office or hospital. The hospital or private practice may not need a full-time nurse, but may request the services of an NE who can help them with various tasks. If nurses don’t feel comfortable accepting an assignment, they can wait for the next opportunity to arise. There is no obligation, and the demand is high.
Variety.
Assignments vary. Nurses may have a specialization in oncology and may be on staff to help doctors during surgery or chemotherapy. A general nurse practitioner may only be required to take blood samples and send them to the laboratory for analysis. The options will vary depending on the field of specialization and the areas that require help. They may work in hospital, school, university, private practice, corporate, or private practice settings. They are not limited to the entrepreneurial spirit of nurses.
Disadvantages of Nurse Entrepreneurship
Responsible for customer search.
As a NE, client acquisition is the responsibility of the nurse. A service can be used, or the nurse will be responsible for finding clients on her own. Many people in this field miss the structure of full-time nursing positions in hospitals or private practices.
No Benefits or Salary.
A business nurse is responsible for her own profits and income. They must work, pay for health insurance, and save for retirement independently of an organization. This is a challenge for some people accused of receiving wages or benefits through a hospital or private practice. Fortunately, associations are available to make healthcare more affordable and accessible for business owners in this field.
Copyright (c) 2012 Nurse Entrepreneurs Network
