Dr. Imran Haque has 15 years of experience as a well-established and respected medical doctor, treating a broad variety of illnesses. He has earned medical degrees at University of Virginia and Universidad Iberoamericana (UNIBE) in Santo Domingo. Finally, as an up and coming doctor, he decided to start his own private practice. Now a highly trained, fully licensed medical expert, he practices out of Asheboro and Ramseur, North Carolina at Horizon Internal Medicine. There he provides, among other services, physical examinations, diabetes management, weight management, 360 resurfacing, Venus body contouring, and laser hair removal. What sets Dr. Haque apart, however, is the deep level of care that he dedicates to every patient who visits his office. As both a primary care physician and a specialized internist, Dr. Haque is committed to helping each of his patients as much as he’s able and ensures that they receive a quality level of care throughout the whole process. It’s all of this that makes him one of the most well-respected medical internists in North Carolina.
How did you get started in this business? What inspired you to start this business?
When I was attended the University of Virginia Internal Medicine Roanoke-Salem Program, I really found my place in internal medicine. Then when I started out as a doctor, I noticed there were gaps in the types of medical care provided locally in my community. I wanted to fill some of those gaps. I was inspired by feedback from my patients and also inspired to practice a good bedside manner, which was something of a dying principle in the medical community.
How do you make money?
I get much of my business through positive word-of-mouth, as well as interpersonal relationships and professional connections. I think it’s important to have a strong network and to treat everyone kindly, whether they’re patients or others in my profession. If I do my job well and I treat everyone the way I’d like to be treated, the success and money usually follow.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
It wasn’t instant. I learned better how to multi-task over the years. By now, it’s become a habit, but anytime you start a new venture, it requires patience and hard work. It almost never happens overnight.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
At one point, I had a sock and textiles business alongside my medical practice. I expanded it too quickly without the right safeguards in place, and it was impossible to manage with my growing medical practice. I had to choose, and I chose medicine because that’s what I know best and what I’m passionate about.
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?
The Golden Rule has had the strongest impact on my business and marketing strategy: treat others as you wish them to treat you. I treat everyone I see with kindness and respect, no matter what their walk of life may be, and I believe that’s the reason I have the strong network I have now.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
I have a personal connection with each one of my patients. They know that I’m not just in it for money. I practice good bedside manner and care deeply about every patient that walks in my door.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
Starting my own practice. I was able to care for my patients on a more personal level and better able to provide medical care that wasn’t available locally before.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
I’m most excited about the advances in technology when it comes to Health Care. Record keeping, referrals, follow-ups, basically all aspects of patient care have been expedited by simplified, centralized digital systems. The more technology advances, the higher the quality of care that medical professionals can provide to their patients.
What business books have inspired you?
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen R. Covey
What is one thing you wish you knew when you started out?
I wish I had been a little more cautious about other people’s motives. I would like to have told my younger self: Do not harden your heart to mankind, but also don’t let people take advantage of your generosity and empathy.
