Starting your own IV hydration business can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor, but it requires careful planning and preparation.

First and foremost, one must understand that, in most states, the piercing of the outermost layer of the skin or the epidermis and the rendering of fluids and vitamins via a compound is the practice of medicine. When practicing medicine, a business must comply with its state CPOM position. The CPOM doctrine is a legal doctrine that generally prohibits corporations, entities, or non-physicians from practicing medicine. In most states, IV therapy is considered as practice of medicine wherein legal doctrine prohibits lay people from owning medical clinics and employing physicians. Some state heavily regulates IV therapy, meaning only physicians can own the medical clinic; while others allow joint ownership by other health care providers or non-professionals.

If you are a non medical professional you may be able to participate in the ownership of a IV hydration clinic through a MSO You maybe able to participate through an MSO -Management Services Organization,  MSOs are independent entities with an agreement to provide management services to a medical practice. Unlike a medical practice, there are no restrictions on who can own and operate an MSO.

 A health care practitioner may not serve as clinic director if the services provided at the clinic are not within the scope of the practitioner's license. A medical director is required by law to be a licensed healthcare practitioner in Florida who holds an active and regulated license as a medical physician, osteopathic physician, chiropractic physician, or podiatric physician.

 As an RN you can own an IV therapy practice, however, you will need the help of a provider. Provider – Doctor (MDs or DO), Nurse Practitioner (NP), Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), and Physician Assistant (PA) – is needed to complete client’s history and physical examination and order the indicated infusion protocol.

A practitioner can also own an IV Therapy Practice, however, the provider scope of practice will vary state by state. Some states allow NPs and CRNAs to practice independently (without physician involvement), others require NPs or CRNAs to collaborate with or be supervised by a physician. For example, in Florida, both physicians and non-physicians may own a medical entity. However, in order to preserve the physician-patient relationship in an entity that is owned by non-physicians, Florida requires the employment of a physician as medical director. Additionally, the medical services must be rendered only by licensed practitioners, and non-physicians cannot interfere with the professional judgment of the physician.

 What license is required for the person performing the IV?

A. Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians.

B. Medical Assisting Personnel.

C. LPNs and RNs  (most fitting):

• Beginning or administering cancer chemotherapy.

• Beginning or administering plasma expanders.

• Beginning or administering investigational drugs.

• Mixing IV solution.

• IV pushes, except heparin flushes and saline flushes.

D. Certification in IV Therapy:

If they have the necessary certifications and training, most Florida licensed Medical Doctors, Osteopathic Doctors, Dentists, Registered Nurses, and Medical Assistants, can provide IV therapy to patients. Several of these practitioners are required to complete a 30-hour IV certification course. Regardless of who you hire to provide IV therapy, they should have several years of experience. 

 Here are some instructions to help you get started:

1. Research the market and your competition: Conduct a thorough analysis of the IV hydration industry in your area. Identify your competitors, their strengths and weaknesses, and their pricing models. Determine if there is a demand for IV hydration services in your area and what kind of clientele you would like to serve.

2. Create a business plan: Develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals, financial projections, marketing strategy, and operational plan. This will help you stay organized and focused as you start your business.

3. Obtain the necessary licenses and permits: Check with your state and local government to see what licenses and permits are required to start an IV hydration business. This may include a business license, health department permit, and medical director agreement.

4. Hire a medical director: A medical director is a licensed physician who oversees the medical aspects of your business. They will be responsible for creating protocols, supervising staff, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.

5. Find a location: Look for a location that is easily accessible and visible to potential customers. Consider factors such as foot traffic, parking availability, and proximity to other businesses.

6. Purchase equipment and supplies: Invest in high-quality equipment and supplies, such as IV bags, needles, and medical-grade water. Make sure your equipment is up to date and meets all safety standards.

7. Hire staff: Hire licensed and certified medical professionals, such as registered nurses or paramedics, to administer IV treatments. Consider additional staff, such as receptionists or marketing personnel, to help run the business.

8. Develop a marketing strategy: Develop a marketing plan that targets your desired clientele. This may include social media advertising, email marketing, and community outreach.

9. Offer exceptional customer service: Provide excellent customer service and ensure that your staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and professional.

Starting your own IV hydration business requires hard work, dedication, and attention to detail. By following these instructions and putting in the effort, you can create a successful business that helps people feel their best.