Choosing a site for a medical practice

Catchment first

Start with the population you intend to serve: demographics, growth, existing provider density and referral relationships. A site five minutes further from the catchment centre can change patient volumes measurably.

For specialist practices, proximity to referring GPs, hospitals and imaging matters more than passing foot traffic. For primary care, visibility, parking and public transport usually dominate.

• Map existing provider density before committing to an area
• Test drive times from the catchment centre at clinic peak hours
• Confirm referral proximity for specialist and procedural practices

Compliance and fit-out reality

Floor-to-ceiling heights, services capacity, accessible amenities, waste handling and plumbing runs decide whether a clinical fit-out is straightforward or ruinous. Two tenancies with the same rent can differ by hundreds of thousands of dollars in fit-out cost.

Have the shortlist reviewed by a clinical fit-out specialist before terms are agreed — not after the heads of agreement is signed.

Structure the deal to the risk

New sites carry ramp-up risk. Terms should reflect that: stepped rent through the ramp-up period, fit-out contributions, an early expansion right and clear make-good limits.

• Negotiate a rent-free period covering fit-out and ramp-up
• Secure expansion or first-right options on adjoining space
• Cap make-good so the fit-out you fund is not one you pay to remove