Closing a practice

Steps for closing a practice

When a psychiatrist is transferring their practice to a colleague, or retiring from practice, they need to be aware there are certain essential steps that need to be considered and taken as part of the process. Some key steps include but are not limited to:

• notifying and seeking specific advice from their MDO
• publishing a notice of practice changes in a local newspaper or other media
• determining a schedule for transferring, storing and/or disposing of health records that is compliant with legislative requirements in the relevant jurisdiction
• allowing sufficient time for the closure of the practice and the transfer or discharge of patient care
• notifying external organisations of practice changes
• notifying employees of the intention to sell/retire/transfer
• disposing of prescription pads/paper and medications, including samples, responsibly.

In addition to their MDO, psychiatrists may wish to consider contacting other organisations – for example, the RANZCP or the AMA – to seek advice on closing a practice. In respect of seeking advice about patient health records, they may wish to also contact their relevant jurisdictional health complaints entity.

About this information

For enquiries about this information, contact policy@ranzcp.org.

Disclaimer: This information is intended to provide general guide to practitioners, and should not be relied on as a substitute for proper assessment with respect to the merits of each case and the needs of the patient. The RANZCP endeavours to ensure that information is accurate and current at the time of preparation, but takes no responsibility for matters arising from changed circumstances or information or material that may have become subsequently available.