Summit Shah is an allergist and founder of Premier Allergy, located at 6565 Perimeter Drive in Dublin, Ohio.
He went to high school at Bishop Watterson High School in Columbus, Ohio and then attended The Ohio State University for undergraduate and medical school. For his residency, he was at Tufts University for 3 years and then finally for his allergy/immunology fellowship, he trained at the Scripps Clinic in San Diego, California.
How did you get started in this business?
After graduating from my allergy fellowship in San Diego, I wanted to move back home to provide cutting-edge allergy and asthma care in Central Ohio because I knew there was a need for it.
How do you make money?
We see allergy patients, both adults and children for issues such as hayfever, asthma, sinus disease, food allergies and drug allergies.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
Almost instantly- we were overwhelmed with the support from local pediatricians and primary care doctors who trusted us with the care of their patients.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work?
I remember sitting by the phone for our first patient phone call. Certainly starting your own business is daunting, but I knew that if we did what was the best for the patient, in the long run, we would succeed.
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?
We find that word of mouth is our best marketing strategy. We offer some new techniques and types of care that haven’t previously been offered in Ohio such as rush immunotherapy or aspirin desensitization. So when those patients see their allergy and asthma to start improving, they tell their 20 closest family and friends to come to Premier Allergy.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
My passion is seeing patients however, the administrative, teaching and research demands in our organization are also so great that I’ve had to take a step away from patient care to focus on our company more.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
Easy- our employees. Everyone from the front desk to the doctor puts in 110% everyday for our patients.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
Observing the professional development of our employees and the dramatic improvement of allergy health in our patients.
What does the future hold for your business?
What are you most excited about? We are looking at expanding outside of Columbus next. We hope we can bring new levels of care throughout Ohio next.