Practicing in Underserved Areas

This online guide was created by physicians and the Medical Society of DC to provide resources and information for physicians looking to establish a practice in underserved areas of the District. Whether you inherit a practice or are creating your own, this page will have resources to help you be a success and resource for the people of the District.

How to use this guide

Each topic below has resources contained within in. Click on each title and links/resources/advice will scroll down your screen.

Need additional advice or thoughts? Contact MSDC.

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Setting up your office

Continuing a practice/taking over an existing practice

What to know about medical records
Marketing resources
DC Health Professionals Loan Repayment Program (HPLRP) information

Physical office space

Where to look for new office space
What you should know when negotiating an office lease
Should you use a virtual or shared space

Technology resources

Your guide to telemedicine
Working with local hospitals and FQHCs

Setting yourself up financially

Billing and coding

Working with Medicaid patients
Working with Medicare patients
To take insurance or not take insurance?
Billing and coding

Insurance options and information

Liability insurance options
Information on other types of insurance
Why being sued is not the end of your practice

Other aspects to a successful practice

Health and wellbeing

MSDC Healthy Physician Program
Vida Fitness wellbeing resources

Marketing yourself and your practice

Doctor's guide to social media
DC Department of Healthcare Finance resources for Medicaid patient practices