Creating a Business Plan

A business plan is a written document that describes in detail how a business is going to achieve its goals. It includes specific plans for marketing, finance, and operations. A well-documented business plan helps organize and clarify the steps necessary for success.

Committing the plan to writing makes it easier to see the “big picture” and pinpoint areas that need additional development before implementation. The business plan provides a template to follow by outlining a timeframe for each step and decreasing the odds of overlooking important steps. After implementation begins, the business plan also makes it easier to monitor progress.

A DSMES service is like any other business. Starting and sustaining DSMES services will rely on a business plan to:

  • Describe the purpose and vision for the services.
  • Address the services’ goals and objectives.
  • Furnish details on milestones to achieve the goals and objectives.

In addition to including the components of a standard business plan, a DSMES business plan should:

  • Describe how the services will identify potential barriers.
  • Address all components necessary for accreditation or recognition by the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists (ADCES) or the American Diabetes Association (ADA).
  • Ensure that financial policies meet federal guidelines for coding and billing.

Specific components of a DSMES business plan might include:

  • Business strategies.
  • A marketing plan.
  • An operations plan.
  • A financial plan.
  • A clinical plan.
  • A quality improvement plan.

DSMES services can use their business plans to gain support from leadership, key stakeholders, and potential funders, as well as to help secure necessary commitments and buy-in from those who will implement the plan.

Best practices DSMES business plan