Telemedicine for Physicians: Compensation & Getting Started
Based on data from 2 physicians on OffCall
What Physicians Earn from Telemedicine
Typical Compensation: $58,000–$60,000/year
- Top earners: $60,000+
- Time Commitment: 8–10 hours per week typically Data reflects 2025 responses from OffCall physicians
What Is Telemedicine?
Telemedicine allows physicians to diagnose and treat patients remotely using video calls, messaging platforms, or phone consultations. Depending on the platform and specialty, it can include urgent care, chronic disease management, mental health care, or follow-ups for existing patients.
This side gig appeals to physicians looking for flexibility, low overhead, and the ability to work from home. Telemedicine leverages your clinical knowledge and communication skills while eliminating commute time and in-person admin hassles. It can be a great way to expand access to care while earning supplemental income on your own schedule.
A common misconception is that telemedicine is only suitable for low-acuity cases or primary care. In reality, many specialists (like psychiatry, endocrinology, and dermatology) offer effective care remotely within their scope.
Who This Side Gig Works Best For
Ideal Candidates:
- Board-certified physicians with strong clinical judgment and communication skills
- Comfortable with technology and remote platforms
- Licensed in multiple states (or willing to expand)
- Able to work independently with limited in-person backup
Less Ideal For:
- Physicians uncomfortable with virtual-only evaluations
- Specialties reliant on physical exams or in-office procedures
- Those expecting guaranteed shift volumes—case flow can vary
How to Get Started
To get started in telemedicine, explore platforms like Teladoc, Amwell, MDLIVE, or Wheel. Each has different onboarding processes, but most require board certification, active state licenses, and malpractice insurance. Some platforms offer their own coverage, while others expect you to carry it.
You’ll often need multi-state licensure, particularly for national platforms. Start by applying with one or two services, complete their tech checks and training modules, and gradually build your availability.
What to Charge
Most telemedicine platforms offer fixed rates per visit or per shift, which can equate to $58,000–$60,000/year for part-time hours. Psychiatry and urgent care often command higher rates. Rates are usually non-negotiable when working through large platforms, but physicians with niche expertise or direct-to-consumer models can often charge more.
Be cautious of roles offering low flat rates for long shifts or requiring excessive unpaid administrative work. Understand how cancellations, no-shows, and documentation are handled.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Overestimating patient volume: You may be paid per visit—not per hour—so fluctuating demand can affect income.
- Missing state licensing needs: Without the right state licenses, you may not be eligible to take visits in high-volume regions.
- Neglecting documentation standards: Even short virtual visits require thorough, timely documentation to reduce liability and ensure continuity of care.
Compare Your Side Gig Income
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