15 years with you: an interview with the founder of Health+ Dr. Oldřich Šubrt

Do you remember the moment when you decided to start a company? What made you decide to do it?

Yes, I remember the moment very well. It was 2009 and we were faced with a challenge, but also a great opportunity - to create a place where patient care was truly personal and comprehensive. At the time, we felt that the traditional healthcare system often lacked humanity and continuity. And it was the desire to change that was the impetus. We wanted to bring something back into medicine that had been somewhat lost - the relationship. A relationship between doctor and patient where there is room for trust, understanding and time. The concept of the 21st century personal doctor was born, and we started building on it from the very beginning.

What were the beginnings? What was the most difficult and what did you enjoy the most?

We literally started from scratch - with a small team of two doctors and two nurses, we tackled everything from registration to architectural plans to selecting our first staff. The hardest part was setting standards that fit our vision but were also sustainable in practice. It was also about finding the right people - professionals who shared our philosophy and approach. What did I enjoy the most? Probably the fact that we've had an amazing response from patients from day one. We saw that it made sense and that people appreciated being treated as unique individuals, not just as a medical card.

What milestones or moments are you most proud of?

There are many milestones - from the opening of the clinic in 2010, to the launch of the Client Zone and our own mobile app, to the creation of the Vita Bene platform, which combines healthcare with art and aesthetics. I'm also very happy about the stable team we've built - many of our colleagues have been with us since the beginning. Last but not least, I am proud of the fact that even in difficult moments, such as the pandemic, we have been able to respond with flexibility, humanity and respect for the individual needs of our customers.

Was there a point where you felt like giving up? What kept you going?

Yes, there were moments. Especially during the pandemic, when we had to change the way we delivered care almost overnight, dealing with vaccinations, telemedicine, protecting vulnerable patients. It was an extremely challenging time for the whole team. But it was in those moments that I realised how strong our vision is and how much we stand together. I was sustained by the knowledge that what we were doing was deeply meaningful. And, of course, the support of colleagues and clients - their trust was what kept us going.

What values did you want to instill in the company from the beginning? In your opinion, have they been successful to this day?

From the beginning we built on four pillars: comprehensiveness, reliability, excellence and enjoyment. We wanted to create an environment where every patient is seen as a whole person - with their needs, emotions and life story. And we approached our colleagues in the same way - as people whom we wanted to give space, trust and the opportunity to grow professionally. I think we have managed not only to preserve these values, but also to strengthen them. Today we have three offices, more than 250 employees and yet we still maintain a close, human approach.

What have you learned in these 15 years - as a businessman and as a person?

I have learnt that business is a journey that requires constant flexibility, openness to change and, above all, patience. As a person, I have become even more aware of the importance of empathy, listening and trust. I have learnt to rely more on the team, not to be afraid to delegate and to admit when I don't know something. And perhaps the most important lesson: that success isn't just about numbers, it's about relationships - with colleagues and clients.

If you had to give advice to someone starting a business today, what would it be?

Have the courage to be different. Believe in your vision, even if many people discourage you in the beginning. Surround yourself with people who share your values and never forget who you are doing this for. There are many challenges in business, but if you know why you're on this journey, you'll get through the tough times.

Do you have a message for employees, clients or partners who have been part of this journey?

I would like to say a big thank you to everyone who has been and is part of this clinic. Without you - our colleagues, doctors, nurses, receptionists, administration and our clients - it wouldn't be worth it. Thank you for your confidence, your energy, your loyalty. Together we have created a place that is more than just a medical facility - it is a place of trust, peace and understanding.

Where do you see the company going next? What are your plans and dreams for the future?

Our goal is to further develop personalised medicine and longevity-oriented care - that is, active, healthy living into old age. We want to stay true to the philosophy of the personal doctor, but at the same time move with the times, using modern technology and combining healthcare with art, education and quality prevention. Our vision for the future is not about massive growth, but about deepening what we do - so that each of our customers feels they have a doctor who knows, understands and is there for them.

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