[Private practice: a choice, but what challenges!]

Recent changes in the Canadian health care system are having an impact on the way health care services are delivered. As a result, opportunities are opening up for a whole new generation of autonomous and independent nurses who choose to work directly with clients in a private practice setting. In part one of this two-part article, the author describes the main responsibilities of the nurse entrepreneur. Stressed are the areas of competency and the entrepreneurial spirit required. Administrative, professional, legal and fiscal aspects of independent practice are also outlined. Part two of the article focuses on the ethical responsibilities of the nurse entrepreneur and the regulations concerning fees, publicity, insurance, and office and file management. The author recommends keeping current on new developments and establishing a process whereby clients can evaluate the quality of care they receive.