1. Conduct Market Research

Before starting, gather data to understand:

The healthcare needs of your target area.

The competition in the vicinity.

The demand for specific medications or medical services.

Regulatory requirements and challenges.

This research will help you determine the feasibility of your business and refine your business model.

2. Develop a Business Plan

Outline the vision and objectives of your business. Include:

Type of business: Pharmacy shop, polyclinic, or a combination.

Target audience: Define your customer base.

Services offered: List the medicines or medical services you plan to provide.

Budget: Estimate the capital required for licensing, rent, inventory, staff, and marketing.

Revenue projections: Forecast your income and expenses.

3. Choose a Strategic Location

Select a location that is:

Easily accessible to your target customers.

Near residential areas, hospitals, or marketplaces.

Compliant with local zoning regulations.

4. Register Your Business

Follow the legal steps to register your pharmacy or polyclinic:

Business Registration: Register with the Department of Industry or local municipal office.

PAN/VAT Registration: Obtain a Permanent Account Number (PAN) for taxation.

Trade License: Apply for a trade license from your local ward office.

Pharmacy License:

For pharmacies, ensure you meet the criteria set by the Department of Drug Administration (DDA).

Appoint a certified pharmacist to oversee operations.

5. Obtain Necessary Approvals

For polyclinics, you may need additional clearances:

Health Ministry Approval: Obtain permits from the Ministry of Health and Population.

Medical Council Approval: Ensure all medical practitioners are licensed and registered.

Environmental Clearance: Depending on the services offered, secure permissions for waste disposal.

6. Set Up Your Infrastructure

Ensure your facility meets the required standards:

For a Pharmacy:

Sufficient space for medicine display and storage.

Maintain proper ventilation and temperature control.

For a Polyclinic:

Separate consultation rooms for doctors.

Comfortable waiting area.

Basic diagnostic facilities if applicable.

07. Procure Inventory and Equipment

Pharmacy: Source medicines, surgical items, and OTC products from authorized distributors. ThokVikreta.com is a reliable platform in Nepal for sourcing a wide range of Surgical products at competitive prices. With direct access to thousands of pharmacy counters and an extensive inventory of quality products, ThokVikreta.com ensures timely delivery and streamlined procurement.

Polyclinic: Purchase medical equipment, furniture, and supplies as per your service offerings.

Maintain an organized inventory system to track stock and expiry dates.

8. Hire Qualified Staff

Pharmacy: Hire a certified pharmacist and support staff.

Polyclinic: Employ qualified doctors, nurses, lab technicians, and administrative staff.

Train your staff on customer service and compliance.

9. Implement a Record-Keeping System

Use digital tools or software for:

Managing sales and inventory.

Maintaining patient records (for polyclinics).

Generating invoices and tracking payments.

10. Market Your Business

Promote your pharmacy or polyclinic through:

Online Presence: Create a website and list your business on Google Maps.

Social Media: Use Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok to connect with potential customers.

Local Advertising: Distribute flyers and partner with nearby clinics and hospitals.

Customer Loyalty Programs: Offer discounts or membership plans to attract repeat customers.

11. Ensure Compliance and Safety

Adhere to Regulations: Regularly update your licenses and comply with health department guidelines.

Maintain Hygiene: Ensure a clean and sanitized environment.

Waste Management: Properly dispose of expired medicines and medical waste.

12. Monitor and Improve

Regularly review your business performance.

Seek feedback from customers to improve your services.

Stay updated with advancements in healthcare and introduce new products or services.

Starting a pharmacy shop or polyclinic in Nepal involves careful planning, adherence to regulations, and a customer-centric approach. By following these steps, you can build a successful healthcare business that serves your community effectively.