In The News

My business: Advanced Breast Care Specialists

By DORIS BENAVIDES
July 31, 2006
The Orange County Register

Owners: Lisa D. Curcio, M.D.
Business address: 25982 Pala, Suite 140, Mission Viejo
Web site: www.mybreastcarespecialist.com
Telephone: 949-770-0797
Type of business: Medical and surgical services for breast health
When opened: Oct. 31, 2005

Describe your business: We are a specialized medical practice providing personalized and quality breast health care. Since I am a breast cancer survivor, my practice is devoted to education, prevention and treatment of breast cancer. Services include the most advanced testing and surgical options available today in addition to educational resources and support group options.

Where did you get the idea for the business? Having gone through the experience of being diagnosed and treated for breast cancer, I saw many areas where care could be improved. The vision for my business was to provide quality yet personalized breast care for patients. My goal was to take a process that could be terrifying process and make it less intimidating.

How long did it take you to get from idea to open doors? Seven months.

What did you do during that time? Formulated the plan, consulted with medical practice business development professionals, and then grew the plan into reality.

How much did it cost to start the business?  $400,000

Where did you get the money? Small business loan

Your expected revenue for this year?  $500,000

Is this your first business?  Yes

Did you write a business plan?  Yes

Whom did you seek for advice?  People in the industry, peers who had undertaken similar moves, and from my husband.

How are you marketing yourself?  My business is very much referral dependant. I notified my previous patients and doctors about my move. I have also developed a comprehensive Web site and am exploring speaking opportunities and other community involvement.

The biggest thing you didn't think of before you started? I did not realize that my success would be so dependent on the people that I surrounded myself with. If chosen badly, they can be your demise. If chosen correctly, they can be your strongest asset.

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