Telemedicine Talks

Sponsored by: Set For Life

Set For Life Insurance helps doctors safeguard their future with True Own Occupational Disability Insurance. A single injury or illness can change everything, but the best physicians plan ahead. Protect your income and secure your future before life makes the choice for you. Your career deserves protection—act now at https://www.doctorpodcastnetwork.co/setforlife

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When physicians face high burnout rates in specialties like emergency medicine, finding balance is crucial. In this episode, Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez sit down with Dr. Maria Mithaiwala, an emergency medicine physician, new mom, and Instagram influencer (@marstravelsearth), to explore how she carved out a unique identity through travel and social media. Maria shares her journey of using international trips to unplug from the demands of the ER, building a 10,000-follower Instagram community, and transitioning her content to include motherhood and medicine. 

She offers advice on growing an authentic social media presence, engaging with followers, and avoiding the pitfalls of inauthentic monetization. This episode is a must-listen for physicians looking to diversify their identity, combat burnout, or navigate the world of social media influence.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

1. Post Consistently and Engage Actively – Dedicate 1-2 hours daily to posting and interacting with followers. Use relevant hashtags, comment on similar accounts, and respond to comments to build a community.
2. Stay Authentic – Share real experiences, like struggles with motherhood or medicine, to connect with followers. Avoid over-monetizing with inauthentic brand deals that dilute your credibility.
3. Leverage Trends – Follow niche influencers (e.g., travel or medical accounts) to stay updated on trends, like popular hashtags or music for reels, to boost visibility.

About the Show:
Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine.

About the Hosts:

• Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health.
• Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models.
  Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:
  https://www.linkedIn.com/in/pkgutierrez/ 
  [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

About the Guest:
Dr. Maria Mithaiwala is an emergency medicine physician, social media influencer, and new mom with a passion for travel. Since 2018, she has built a 10,000-follower Instagram community (@marstravelsearth) by sharing travel tips, medical insights, and motherhood experiences. Her blog, marstravelsearth.com, offers detailed travel guides, while her Instagram focuses on authentic storytelling to inspire and connect with followers.

Website: http://marstravelsearth.com 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marstravelsearth?igsh=dTQzeWRmODVtbnQx

The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by: Set For Life Insurance

Set For Life Insurance helps doctors safeguard their future with True Own Occupational Disability Insurance. A single injury or illness can change everything, but the best physicians plan ahead. Protect your income and secure your future before life makes the choice for you. Your career deserves protection—act now at https://www.doctorpodcastnetwork.co/setforlife

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In this episode, Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez interview Nick Krus, CEO and founder of June Skin, about his unexpected journey from the music industry to launching a concierge aesthetics platform—and the surprising lessons he brought with him.

Nick shares his journey of creating a clinician-first telemedicine company that delivers Botox to clients’ homes while prioritizing nurse training, compliance, and provider satisfaction.

Nick discusses the challenges and rewards of scaling a niche telehealth business, from developing a custom EHR tailored to nurses’ needs to navigating complex regulations across nearly 40 states. He also highlights the importance of transparency with medical directors and the pivot from weight loss drugs back to June Skin’s core Botox business. A must-listen for physicians and nurses interested in telemedicine entrepreneurship.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

1.    Clinician Feedback – Build tools like EHRs based on direct provider input to streamline workflows and reduce burnout, especially for side-gig nurses.
2.  Master Compliance Early – Dig into state-specific regulations yourself to understand the legal landscape and make informed decisions, even when outsourcing compliance support.
3.  Foster Transparent Partnerships – Work closely with medical directors by sharing business goals and encouraging them to ask questions, creating a collaborative approach to decision-making.

About the Show:
Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine.

About the Guest:
Nicholas Krus is the President and founder of June Skin, a concierge aesthetics platform launched in 2023 that delivers in-home cosmetic treatments.  Before entering the beauty tech space, Krus built a notable career in the music industry. He was Vice President of Marketing at TuneCore, a digital music distribution company, where he led initiatives like TuneCore Rewards and TuneCore Certified digital awards.

Website: https://www.bookjune.com

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholaskrus

About the Hosts:

● Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health.

● Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models.
Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez

: http://www.linkedin.com/in/pkgutierrez/ 

 [email protected]

The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sponsored by: Set For Life

Set for Life Insurance helps doctors safeguard their future with True Own Occupational Disability Insurance. A single injury or illness can change everything, but the best physicians plan ahead. Protect your income and secure your future before life makes the choice for you. Your career deserves protection—act now at https://www.doctorpodcastnetwork.co/setforlife.

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When physicians transition from W2 roles to independent telemedicine practices, many overlook a critical piece of the puzzle: disability insurance. In this episode, Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez talk with Jamie Fleischner about why protecting your income is non-negotiable for high-earning professionals like doctors.

Jamie shares actionable insights on securing disability insurance before leaving a W2 job, the pitfalls of relying solely on employer group policies, and how individual policies offer flexibility for telemedicine providers. From navigating income verification to understanding “own occupation” coverage, this conversation is a must-listen for any physician considering the leap to independence.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

1. Get Coverage Early – Secure disability insurance while you’re still a W2 employee to lock in income verification and lower premiums based on your age and health.
2. Choose “Own Occupation” Policies – Individual policies with “own occupation” clauses ensure you’re covered even if you pivot to telemedicine, unlike group policies that may stop paying if you earn any income.
3. Review Regularly – Reassess your policy every three years or after major life changes (e.g., job transitions, marriage, or buying a home) to ensure it aligns with your current needs.

About the Show:

Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine.

About the Guest:

Jamie Fleischner is the founder and president of Set for Life Insurance, a company dedicated to helping physicians secure disability and life insurance since 1993. With over 30 years of experience, she has worked with more than 30,000 doctors across the country, offering tailored solutions like Guaranteed Standard Issue (GSI) disability insurance. Inspired by her personal experience caring for her mother during a double lung transplant, Jamie is passionate about ensuring physicians protect their income and financial stability.

Website: https://www.setforlifeinsurance.com/

LinkedIn: Jamie Fleischner

About the Hosts:

• Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health.
• Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models.
  Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:
  https://www.linkedin.com/in/pkgutierrez/
  [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sponsored by: Set For Life
Set for Life Insurance helps doctors safeguard their future with True Own Occupational Disability Insurance. A single injury or illness can change everything, but the best physicians plan ahead. Protect your income and secure your future before life makes the choice for you. Your career deserves protection—act now at https://www.doctorpodcastnetwork.co/setforlife.

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When COVID-19 struck, the healthcare system couldn’t keep up. Testing was scarce, data reporting was broken, and underserved communities lacked access to care. Devon Phillips, a public health leader, played a key role in creating one of the largest COVID-19 testing programs in the U.S., working with California's Department of Public Health, community sites, and thousands of providers.

In this episode, Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez sit down with Devon Phillips to uncover how she launched a massive public health tech initiative during an emergency, built software that connected frontline providers, government agencies, and millions of patients, and tackled telehealth expansion, digital infrastructure, and regulatory barriers—without red tape slowing her down.

Now, as telehealth and digital health innovation continue to evolve, what’s next for public health? Devon discusses what stuck from the pandemic, what’s been lost, and how technology is shaping the future of community-based healthcare.

If you work in telemedicine, digital health, or public health, this episode is a must-listen.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

1. Public Health Must Meet Patients Where They Are – The most effective healthcare delivery happens outside traditional clinics. Programs need to reach patients in schools, churches, workplaces, and even at home.
2. COVID-19 Changed Telehealth Forever—But Will It Last? – Virtual care skyrocketed during the pandemic, but regulations are shifting. Telehealth companies and providers must prepare for policy changes.
3.  Data is the Backbone of Public Health – Governments and providers need real-time data to track disease outbreaks and deliver care effectively. Better infrastructure can prevent future crises.

About the Show:

Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine.

About the Guest:

🔹 Devon Phillips – Devon Phillips is a digital health strategist and public health innovator who played a key role in launching one of the largest COVID-19 testing programs in the U.S. As Head of Strategic Initiatives at Primary Health, she specializes in scaling healthcare technology solutions that improve public health infrastructure. With a deep understanding of policy, operations, and regulatory strategy, Devon has collaborated with government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations to expand access to care during critical health crises.

Passionate about leveraging technology for social impact, Devon focuses on building sustainable, patient-centered healthcare solutions. Her work bridges the gap between public health and digital transformation, ensuring that innovation meets the needs of diverse populations. 

Connect with her on LinkedIn: Devon Phillips.

About the Hosts:

🔹 Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health.
🔹 Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models.

📩 Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/pkgutierrez/

📧 [email protected]

The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sponsored by: Set For Life

Set for Life Insurance helps doctors safeguard their future with True Own Occupational Disability Insurance. A single injury or illness can change everything, but the best physicians plan ahead. Protect your income and secure your future before life makes the choice for you. Your career deserves protection—act now at https://www.doctorpodcastnetwork.co/setforlife.

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When Chris Turtizin started his career designing high-end handbags in Berlin, he never imagined he’d end up shaping the future of telemedicine. But after a pivot from fashion to tech including a stint on Facebook’s growth team he found his calling in healthcare.

In this episode, Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez talk with Chris Turtizin about his incredible journey: from growing Bicycle Health into a telemedicine powerhouse serving tens of thousands of patients with opioid use disorder, to launching Single Aim, a platform that helps clinicians navigate compliance and build their own practices.

Chris shares how he leveraged the chaos of the pandemic to scale Bicycle Health, the lessons he learned about speed and access in healthcare, and why he’s now focused on empowering nurse practitioners, PAs, and physicians to take control of their careers. From underserved communities to regulatory minefields, this conversation dives deep into the intersection of health tech and human impact.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

1. Speed is Everything in Telemedicine – Chris found that getting patients treated within 4-8 hours doubled long-term outcomes at Bicycle Health. Fast access is a game-changer for patient care and business growth.
2. Start with Leadership Roles – Physicians and providers can break into telemedicine through collaborating physician or medical director roles—great stepping stones to bigger opportunities.
3. Transparency Builds Trust – Single Aim’s success comes from clear pricing, open data, and empowering clinicians to control their own paths. Healthcare needs less gatekeeping and more openness.

About the Show:

Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine.

About the Guest:

Chris Turtizin is a digital health innovator who transitioned from designing handbags in Europe to becoming a key player in telemedicine. With experience at Facebook’s growth team, Virta Health, and as a leader at Bicycle Health one of Time’s 100 Most Influential Companies in 2022, he scaled a telemedicine provider serving tens of thousands with opioid use disorder. Now, as co-founder of Single Aim, Chris is building tools to help nurse practitioners, PAs, and physicians launch their own clinical practices with ease and compliance. Passionate about the intersection of internet growth and healthcare, he’s dedicated to making telemedicine accessible and clinician-friendly.

Website: https://www.singleaimhealth.com/

LinkedIn: Chris Turtizin

About the Hosts:

Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health.

Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models

Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/pkgutierrez/

[email protected]

The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sponsored by: Set For Life
Set for Life Insurance helps doctors safeguard their future with True Own Occupational Disability Insurance. A single injury or illness can change everything, but the best physicians plan ahead. Protect your income and secure your future before life makes the choice for you. Your career deserves protection—act now at https://www.doctorpodcastnetwork.co/setforlife.

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At the end of this month, Medicare’s telehealth payment extensions were set to expire, causing widespread concern among telemedicine providers and patients. Many Medicare beneficiaries were already receiving notices that their virtual care options would be discontinued. However, Congress has granted a last-minute six-month extension, temporarily avoiding a major disruption to care.

In this breaking news episode, Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez discuss what this extension means, why Medicare is hesitant to make telehealth coverage permanent, and what telemedicine companies must do to prepare for the inevitable regulatory shifts. They explore the challenges of fraud prevention, potential upcoming administrative burdens for physicians, and whether we’ll see another last-minute extension in September—or a long-term solution.

If you work in telemedicine, depend on Medicare-covered virtual care, or run a telehealth business, this episode is a must-listen.

1. Stay Alert for Policy Changes – Congress must pass permanent legislation to solidify Medicare telehealth coverage. Monitor new bills and regulatory updates to avoid last-minute surprises.
2. Prepare for Increased Oversight – Fraud prevention is a key concern for Medicare. Telehealth companies should strengthen compliance protocols, and physicians should anticipate more documentation requirements.
3. Advocate for the Future of Telehealth – Engage with policymakers, professional organizations, and patient advocacy groups to push for permanent Medicare telehealth coverage.

About the Show:

Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine.

🔹 Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health.
🔹 Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models.

📩 Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pkgutierrez
📧 Email: [email protected]

The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by: Set For Life

Set for Life Insurance helps doctors safeguard their future with True Own Occupational Disability Insurance. A single injury or illness can change everything, but the best physicians plan ahead. Protect your income and secure your future before life makes the choice for you. Your career deserves protection—act now at drpodcastnetwork.co/setforlife.

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Medicare’s telehealth policies are set to change in April 2025, and the shift could leave many telemedicine providers and patients scrambling. The expiration of COVID-era waivers means Medicare will return to pre-pandemic telehealth rules, restricting coverage to patients in rural areas who must visit a clinic or hospital for telehealth services. This change threatens access to care for millions, disrupts telemedicine business models, and leaves providers uncertain about reimbursement.

Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez break down the looming policy shift, explain the congressional roadblocks, and discuss what providers can do to prepare. They cover alternative revenue streams such as remote patient monitoring (RPM) and chronic care management (CCM), the regulatory hurdles associated with them, and how telehealth companies should be pivoting now to avoid financial instability.

If you're a physician in telemedicine, a healthcare entrepreneur, or a patient who relies on Medicare-covered telehealth services, this episode is essential listening.

1. Prepare for Regulatory Changes – Medicare’s rollback of telehealth flexibility could impact your practice and patient volume. Stay informed and assess how it affects your employer or business.
2. Diversify Your Revenue Streams – Remote patient monitoring (RPM) and chronic care management (CCM) remain reimbursable but come with increased regulatory oversight. Ensure your organization meets all compliance requirements.
3. Advocate and Educate – Reach out to policymakers, engage with professional organizations, and educate patients about the upcoming changes so they can prepare for potential disruptions in care.

Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine.

🔹 Dr. Leo Damasco – A pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor who transitioned into telemedicine, finding flexibility and new opportunities along the way.

🔹 Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned startup executive, now helping companies and physicians build smarter, compliant, and sustainable telemedicine businesses.

Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pkgutierrez 

Email: [email protected]

The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is sponsored by: Set For Life 

Set for Life Insurance helps doctors safeguard their future with True Own Occupational Disability Insurance. A single injury or illness can change everything, but the best physicians plan ahead. Protect your income and secure your future before life makes the choice for you. Your career deserves protection—act now at https://www.doctorpodcastnetwork.co/setforlife

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As telemedicine expands, more physicians are considering leaping—but not without questions.

Following a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Hussain Mithaiwala in our last episode, Dr Leo and Phoebe tackle some of the biggest hesitations doctors have about telemedicine. 

Can you make a sustainable income? 

How do you navigate compliance risks? 

What about the trust factor when collaborating with mid-level providers?

They discuss real-world experiences, misconceptions about earning potential, and why mindset is key to success in digital health. They also touch on the growing issue of physician burnout and how telemedicine can offer both freedom and fulfillment—if approached the right way.

Thinking about transitioning into telemedicine but have doubts? This episode might just change your perspective.

1. Understand the Financial Model – Many doctors assume telemedicine isn’t lucrative, but with the right strategy, it can surpass traditional income streams. Treat it like independent consulting, and you’ll unlock new financial opportunities.
2. Mitigate Risk Through Education – Compliance in telemedicine isn’t just about malpractice; it’s about understanding state regulations, supervision rules, and prescribing laws. Stay informed, ask the right questions, and never assume a company has your back.
3. Be an Active Supervisor – If you’re collaborating with mid-level providers, don’t just sign agreements—build trust. Regular check-ins, chart reviews, and mentorship ensure quality care and protect your license.

Telemedicine isn’t just a side gig—it’s a movement. Telemedicine Talks empowers physicians to explore digital health, find sustainable work-life balance, and make informed decisions about their careers—without the hype.

About the Hosts:
🔹 Dr. Leo Damasco – A pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor who transitioned into telemedicine, finding flexibility and new opportunities along the way.
🔹 Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned startup executive, now helping companies and physicians build smarter, compliant, and sustainable telemedicine businesses.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pkgutierrez/

Email: [email protected]

The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Set for Life Insurance helps doctors safeguard their future with True Own Occupational Disability Insurance. A single injury or illness can change everything, but the best physicians plan ahead. Protect your income and secure your future before life makes the choice for you. Your career deserves protection—act now at https://www.doctorpodcastnetwork.co/setforlife

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Recent FDA changes have rocked the telemedicine industry, specifically affecting providers and patients who rely on GLP-1 medications for weight loss. As tirzepatide and semaglutide are removed from the shortage list, compounding pharmacies will soon lose the ability to produce affordable alternatives. This shift has major implications for physicians, telehealth companies, and millions of patients.

Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez break down the regulatory landscape, explain why Big Pharma plays a key role in these changes, and discuss what providers should do next. They discuss the financial impact on telemedicine startups, the likelihood of legal challenges, and strategies for doctors to pivot before revenue streams dry up.

If you're a physician in telemedicine, a healthcare entrepreneur, or a patient relying on compounded GLP-1 medications, this episode is a must-listen.

1. Prepare for Industry Changes – The removal of GLP-1 medications from the shortage list means providers and companies must pivot quickly. Consider alternative treatment models like health coaching and integrative medicine.
2. Expect Patient Backlash – With compounded GLP-1 medications becoming unavailable, patients will see costs skyrocket. Physicians should prepare for difficult conversations and set clear expectations.
3. Diversify Revenue Streams – Telehealth companies that rely solely on weight loss treatments may not survive this shift. Physicians should explore new specialties or services to ensure financial stability.

Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine.

🔹 Dr. Leo Damasco – A pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor who transitioned into telemedicine, finding flexibility and new opportunities along the way.
🔹 Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned startup executive, now helping companies and physicians build smarter, compliant, and sustainable telemedicine businesses.

Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pkgutierrez
• Email: [email protected]

Telemedicine, Digital Health, Physician Careers, Medical Regulations, Virtual Care, Weight Loss, GLP-1 Medications, FDA Regulations, Telehealth Startups

The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Set for Life Insurance helps doctors safeguard their future with True Own Occupational Disability Insurance. A single injury or illness can change everything, but the best physicians plan ahead. Protect your income and secure your future before life makes the choice for you. Your career deserves protection—act now at https://www.doctorpodcastnetwork.co/setforlife

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While telemedicine is growing rapidly, not every physician is eager to jump on board. 

Dr. Hussain Mithaiwala shares why he prefers practicing in person. He discusses the importance of the "eyeball test" in patient care, the potential pitfalls of virtual-only evaluations, and his concerns about collaborating with unfamiliar providers.

Dr. Mithaiwala emphasizes that while telemedicine reduces barriers for patients, it also raises questions about quality, safety, and physician liability. 

His biggest hesitation? 

Trust—both in technology and the people providing care under his name. 

Listen to his perspective on the burnout driving many doctors to telemedicine and why, for him, the trade-offs aren’t worth it (yet).

1. Prioritize Patient Safety: Virtual care has its place, but certain conditions require an in-person evaluation. Always consider what could be missed without a physical exam.
2. Vet Your Collaborators: If you’re supervising other providers, know them personally. Trust is crucial when your license is on the line.
3. Consider Your Long-Term Goals: Burnout drives many physicians toward telemedicine, but ensure any career pivot aligns with what you value most in patient care.

Telemedicine isn’t just a side gig—it’s a movement. Telemedicine Talks empowers physicians to explore digital health, find sustainable work-life balance, and make informed decisions about their careers—without the hype.

🔹  Dr. Hussain Mithaiwala is a board-certified anesthesiologist with years of experience in providing safe and effective anesthesia care. He completed his residency at the Cleveland Clinic, where he trained in perioperative management, pain control, and optimizing patient outcomes in surgical and procedural settings. Dr. Mithaiwala is dedicated to ensuring patient comfort and safety while working closely with surgical teams to deliver the best possible care. 

About the Hosts:
🔹 Dr. Leo Damasco – A pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor who transitioned into telemedicine, finding flexibility and new opportunities along the way.
🔹 Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned startup executive, now helping companies and physicians build smarter, compliant, and sustainable telemedicine businesses.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pkgutierrez/

Email: [email protected]

The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.