Thread

1. rrrrrrrrrrrryan · 1789953795 · focus · HN ↗

   It's actually worse with veterinary practices.

   Younger veterinarians are drowning in school debt and can't buy the practices from the older folks that are retiring. So, private equity is basically snatching all of them up right now, betting that childless millennials are going to pay tons of money on veterinary care when their pandemic pups begin to reach end-of-life.

   They're going to cut wages for all the staff, and hike all the prices, because unlike with human medical care, there's hardly any regulation (yet).

   1. limagnolia · 1789956107 · focus · HN ↗

      What is so costly about a veterinary practice that new veterinarians can't just start their own? Why would they need to buy one? There is certainly some benefit to working for some one for a while, and maybe eventually buying out an established practice... but if they want too much for it, just start your own?

      1. bitmasher9 · 1789960854 · focus · HN ↗

         * Most small brick & motor businesses do not turn a profit in their first 2 years. So you’ll need a significant amount of runway, in a business where raising capital isn’t guaranteed.

         * There’s probably more cost in medical supply, equipment, and certification than you’d expect. There’s standards for security of the medications.

         * Most veterinary clinics have staff. That’s payroll expenses.

         * Any new business will need marketing. You’ll probably want a large sign/billboard, a decent website, and social media.

         * Just leasing office space and furnishing it is surprisingly expensive.

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