Considering a franchise

A few years ago, the thought of “franchising” a chiropractic practice was unheard of. If you had asked someone about the concept, they would have laughed at the idea. Today, there are several large chiropractic franchise companies operating in the United States. What do they have in common and how are they different?

Most of these franchisors offer you the opportunity to set up an office with their help. Some install you as an independent contractor, but most consider you an employee (associate). They provide not only the expertise and advice to help you get started, but they also fund your new office. Now, this is a significant investment on their part, so most carefully screen candidates. Some operate regionally, like Allied Health, which started in Wisconsin and has expanded to Minnesota, Illinois, and Michigan. Chiropractic USA helps with marketing, reimbursement systems, and business practices.

The biggest advantage to going into a franchise office is the word “turn-key” -you get set up with all of the systems and procedures and equipment you need to start easily and quickly. Some of these franchise companies offer you the opportunity to “buy out” the practice after a period of time. You will pay a premium for this buy-out opportunity, but the franchisor is expecting a return on investment, so that’s to be expected.

If you have considered a franchise, look carefully and ask for their franchising documents. All franchisors are required to provide a disclosure statement (called a Uniform Franchise Offering Circular) which explains how the franchisor operates. Ask questions and look at several companies before you make your decision.