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.

_______

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.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

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.
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.
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.

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 – 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: phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com

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.