In the heart of healthcare innovation, VITALExam stands as a testament to what entrepreneurs can achieve when purpose meets persistence.
Founded by Marci Vitale, a dual board-certified, doctorally-prepared Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in healthcare, VITALExam has become a burgeoning small business built on providing comprehensive health exam services. Their offerings cater to promoting first responder well-being including physical examinations, integrative resources, and behavioral health assessments.
VITALExam Builds the Foundation Brick by Brick
Marci’s path from nursing assistant to founding VITALExam is the story of a promising idea, improved processes, compassion, and hard work. Her experience as a Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician and as a Registered Nurse working in a critical care setting provided her with unique insights into the healthcare needs of first responders.
Marci says: “They serve us, so we serve them.”
With this aim in mind, Marci and her husband, Michael — who brings valuable public safety experience as a former police officer and now as VITALExam’s Chief of Operations — set out to create a company that would positively impact lives of first responders. However, they quickly realized that passion alone wasn’t enough to navigate the complexities of government contracting and business growth.
The Florida SBDC and APEX Accelerator at UWF stepped in to assist. Through their search for guidance, the Vitales connected with Chip Wells, a small business and government contracting consultant, who provided invaluable support in preparing their first formal proposal.
Unearthing Resources
“Chip has been unbelievably helpful,” Michael shares, “and their government contracting section is just a small portion of what SBDC has to offer. Any new or existing business owner should absolutely contact their local SBDC to see how they can help improve business operations and increase the odds of success.”
Support from SBDC and APEX didn’t just help with contracts, the Vitales explain; it empowered VITALExam to think bigger. Considerable time and thought went into planning a professional, calm physical office space that would put patients at ease. They recruited specialized team members, each role bringing certain skills to serve the clientele better. Marci, Michael, and the other staff members continue to travel, learn, and network, ensuring VITALExam stays at the forefront of healthcare innovation for first responders in the local region and beyond.
A Passion-Driven Mission
VITALExam’s success story goes further than creating jobs and winning contracts. Their services have led to early detection of cancer. And they’re not providing a healthcare service alone; they’re investing in the health of the teams that keep our communities safe.
“It’s the opportunity to transform a passion-driven career into a mission to improve the health and wellness of everyday heroes in our community,” Marci explains, “while establishing trusting rapports that facilitate genuine, effective relationships.”
A venture from an impassioned idea to a profitable business that serves our neighborhoods is a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished with the right support and unwavering commitment. As they continue to grow and serve, VITALExam is a reminder for other entrepreneurs and small business owners — proving that with sacrifice and the right resources, it’s possible to turn a start-up not only into a thriving business but one that makes a difference.
“More and more people are becoming entrepreneurs every day,” Marci observes. “The two main qualities needed when starting a business are dedication and perseverance. Business owners don’t generally work 40-hour work weeks, especially when they first start out. You don’t know what you don’t know. You’ll learn all sorts of things you never thought you’d need to know, but don’t be overwhelmed! There are endless resources like APEX and SBDC that want to ensure your success. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them!”
Learn more about VITALExam at vitalexam.com, and get support with government contracting here on our website.
