Established practice
You know a strategic partner would be transformative, but the door is closed
In healthcare, the relationship always precedes the formal process. Without the right introduction and a structured proposition, most clinics never reach the conversation, let alone the contract.
- steps
- 7
- steps
- to start
- 2 hours
- to start
The short answer
Partnerships in private healthcare start with a relationship and a shared problem, not a proposal. Decide exactly what you need from a partner, list the 10 to 20 organisations that could provide it, find the person who owns that problem in each, and open with their priorities rather than yours. Formal agreements come later.
7 steps
Do it yourself: step by step
0 of 7 done
Write down the gap a partner would close: referrals, capacity, a service you lack, a site, or an NHS route
- Time
- 2 hours
- Typical cost
- £0
- Who does it
- clinic owner
Done when: One sentence describes the need and the benefit to the partner
This problem is Solvable.
Copy this template
First approach email to a potential partner
Free to copy, adapt and use. No sign-up.
Subject: [Mutual contact] suggested we speak
Dear [name],
[Mutual contact] suggested I get in touch. I run [clinic name], a [type of clinic] in [location] with [number] clinicians.
I understand [their organisation] is working on [their priority, for example reducing waiting times for X, or growing outpatient activity]. We currently [one specific, relevant fact, for example see 80 new MSK patients a month and have spare capacity on Tuesday and Thursday].
I wondered whether there is a way we could help with [their priority]. I would value 20 minutes to understand what you are trying to achieve before suggesting anything.
Would [date] or [date] suit for a short call?
Kind regards, [name] [role], [clinic name] [phone]
---
First meeting questions
- What are your priorities for the next 12 months?
- Where are you short of capacity or skills?
- How do you usually work with outside organisations?
- Who else would need to be involved in a decision?
- What would a good first step look like for you?
Avoid these
Common mistakes
- Sending a long proposal before any conversation.
- Approaching the chief executive when the decision sits with a service lead.
- Leading with what the clinic wants rather than the partner's problem.
- Asking for an exclusive long-term deal before a pilot.
- Not following up after a good first meeting.
Free personal check
Done by Paul Robinson, not software
Answer six quick questions and I'll show you how to approach the right partner
What I need from you
- Six tap answers about the partner you need
- The type of partner you're looking for
What you get
- Whether your partner brief is clear enough
- The three steps to take before you approach anyone
- How to open the first conversation
Within 2 working days
No sign-in, no sales call. I read every request myself and reply on WhatsApp.
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Check where you stand
Paul Robinson
14 years in UK private healthcare
I solve this one for clinic and hospital teams
Want a hand? I'll look at your situation and tell you the three things I'd tackle first.
A few quick questions, about two minutes. I read every one myself and usually reply the same day.
No sales call unless you ask for one. Just a straight answer from me.
I reply personally, usually the same day.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Who makes a good partner for a clinic?
Organisations that need what you have: capacity, a service, a location or a patient group.
Should we approach the NHS?
Yes, if you have capacity for a service with a long waiting list, but expect procurement and governance requirements.
How long does it take?
Months, not weeks. Plan for 3 to 9 months from first conversation to signed agreement (Solvable estimate).
What if they say no?
Ask what would need to be true for them to say yes, and stay in touch.
Do we need a lawyer at the start?
Not for the first conversations. Yes before signing anything binding.
Last reviewed:
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