Interested in profession but need advice

March 19, 2001

Hi, I am looking into going into an Oriental Medicine physician's

program. I have a medical background and a business degree, but due

to voice recognition technology my current business will probably be

outdated in the next 3-5 years. I have looked into a local institute

which charges about $23,000 for a three-year program.

My biggest concern is whether or not there is a large enough market

for my services. I have always been into holistic medicine myself

but have never actually used a practitioner (except for a midwife).

I think this is a field I will enjoy and think I have aptitude to

learn - but before taking this on I want to make sure I will be able

to support myself and two children (I am a single mom) on this. Do

many people use this service even though there is not that much

insurance reimbursement? How long has it taken some of you to build

up a client base? Right now I earn about $40,000 and work about 30

hours a week - I see a lot more income potential for me with the same

amount of hours - once I build up the clientele - am I wrong about

this? (someone from the school told me he charges $75/hour and that

working about 20 hours per week he makes $75,000 per year - is this

realistic?)

What should I look for in the school I will attend? Are there any

other issues I should think about that I am not thinking about now?

I realize that this email mostly focuses on the business end - I

think I will do great on the human end of it, I usually have a pretty

gentle and good rapport with people. I also think I will have no

problem learning the mechanics of what I need to do - I am just

worried about being able to support myself and my kids.

I am really excited about doing this. I just want to make sure this

is the right decision. Any advice is most welcome!!!

Julianne

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