Standard current wage ?

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Hi we are looking at employing another podiatrist to expand our small clinic and I am hoping i can gain a few insights on what we should expect to pay for full time pod? and /or should we be doing a percentage based package? Any comments and information gratefully accepted.

 

... how much are your current employees getting? or are you after a change for all? I know that public gets @ $36 per hour... however depends on level of experience I guess also.

 

Also depends on what you want......

I would think a newer grad might want to start on a wage and then when busy move to a percentage.

A older Pod might want a percentage straight away.

From both side I think a percentage is the best option as it encourages people to work harder and you get out what you put as long as the clinic does not try to keep the higher ticket items from the percentage people ( which happened to me, well it was meant to but the reception staff did not like the idea).

Think about what works for you and what you want.

Maybe have both packages sorted then offer both, but in the long term I believe a percentage is the best way to keep people longer.

Hope that helps

 

.... private also can be 50% cut of clients and also orthotics..... no holiday/sick pay etc...

 

Before you employ someone, you need to be familiar with the Health Professionals & Support Services Award 2010.

This sets out national mimumum wages, conditions and entitlements for all health professionals other than dentists, medical practitioners and (i think) nurses.

It amazes me how few employers are still to become familiar with this some 12 months after it was introduced....

It will give you a firm idea on mimumum wages to be paid from new graduates through to experienced senior podiatrists.

I might add - the wages are lousy...

LL

 

... u could even combine both? so have a salary base and then employee gets a % of clients... this way they have a definite income , and yet as per 'm webers' email, they work harder for their clientele

 

I have worked for a minimum day rate or % of billings, which ever was higher (your percent depends on your overhead, assistants etc). I have also done straight percentage.
I've had days where my schedule was empty and the owners were full, make sure the office staff can promote the new clinician effectively. Also seen a tendency to book the orthotics and surgeries with the owner. Not fair and you cannot grow as a clinician without the experience.
My current is opposite; as I get all the new assessments with more room in my schedule I tend to get more of the orthotics as a result. I have an assistant and receptionist so get a bit lower a percentage than would at some other clinics but see more volume of patients.
We get paid a flat percentage after average expenses for orthotics then provide case follow up for our devices plus percentage of profit on resale items and percentage of all care visits and procedures. Unpredictable pay cheques, but I'm averaging up to double my previous salaried position.

 

Straight salaries alone never motivate private practitioners.

Straight percentages can be scary for inexperienced practitioners but is the option I would favour if I were to work for another podiatry clinic.

Offer your associates either a straight percentage or a combination of this and a base salary.

The magic formula is... there isn't one. Influencing factors include patient type, Podiatry assistant support, practitioner support, overheads specific to that clinic, etc. It makes no sense to employ someone if they ask for too much. It needs to be a 'win-win' situation for both the employee and the employer. The reality is private practitioners are running a business.

Good luck!

 

I find that is better do a percentage and the Pod is taken on trail basis 60/40% ratio as you have the client base and the reputation and the new Pod will have to prove him/herself before you commit. You also have to think of the longterm benefits, sick leave, NI, holiday pay etc. Consulting an accountant will be good idea.

I find it more prudent to take professionals on as self employed- the work harder, are more focused and turn up for work as they should. Everyone dont have the same work ethic or business risks as the proprietor. A junior Pod may be a good idea as they dont have the financial expectation as is grateful for the opportunity, guidance and support they will be getting.

Good luck

 

I assume you mean 60% in favour of the contracted associate? If so, does this include 60% of consultations only or does this include orthoses, casts/scans and other stock items as well.

I just can't see the incentive for any practice owner to do this. I would love to keep 60% of my total business turnover.

Look forward to your clarification.

 

I get 40% as an associate. I estimate they might be making about 10% off me after expenses. Not sure as I don't see all the books nor do I care to. I don't have to take out a loan and sit on my hands waiting for patients to arrive, I was practically plunked into full client load.
I've been paid 45% for some positions.
I have seen as high as 50% splits where associate builds gradually and has to generate own client list from scratch, and have only seen 60% or more (split after orthotic cost but no chiropody supplies included) if minimal stuff is supplied (ie reception support and space). One place it was 75% up to max 1/3 of fixed operating costs and I was responsible for all my supplies equipment and advertising myself, business cards etc.

Some older pods have told me I am getting too little, settling for less than I deserve. They thought 60% was standard. However probably in a one room set up with no assistant. I have 2 treatment rooms one modality room and an assistant and receptionist. They have to get paid too, plus rent, amazing computer charting system etc. I have not seen a good job come up that paid any more than 45%. Wish I was getting 60%, but with inflation as it is here and expenses increasing far faster than our clients can afford service fee increases, I believe 60% has become a thing of the past.
A happy associate.
Sarah

 

I do believe she means 60% owner 40% employee as a trial which may increase to 50% once the trial period ends.

 

Hi Chellep
I suppose you want someone who are new i.e new grad to work for you, I am one myself and I agree the base salary+percentage way is a win-win for both party, almost all of my friends who work in private practice are remunerated this way as well

 

Also to keep in mind , whether the employee would be on a casual basis ( no leave benefits , super, etc) , or a perm part time / full time.
Adjust up a fair bit (obviously) , for casuals/ contractors.

 

Read the Award is the best advice and be careful to take into account whether they are employees or contractors. I am scared a lot of clinics are in breach of this and are therefore liable for back pay of super and other entitlements. Speak to someone before you get started I.e. a good accountant