Podcast
Telemedicine Talks
Hosted by Phoebe Gutierrez, Dr. Leo Damasco, Doctor Podcast Network · EN
Telemedicine isn’t the future—it’s happening now. But for physicians and startups, it’s a world filled with unanswered questions, regulatory landmines, and a steep learning curve.
Welcome to Telemedicine Talks, where we cut through the chaos and give you the real story behind digital healthcare.
Hosted by Dr. Leo Damasco, a pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor who built his career in telemedicine, and Phoebe Gutierrez, a former state regulator turned startup strategist, this podcast explores what works, what doesn’t, and what no one else is talking about.
🚀 How do you build a sustainable telemedicine career?
⚖️ What legal and compliance risks are lurking beneath the surface?
💡 How can startups and physicians work together without burning out—or blowing up?
We don’t sugarcoat. We don’t do corporate jargon. We bring you real stories, hard-earned lessons, and expert insights from the front lines of telemedicine.
If you're ready to navigate this space with confidence—whether you’re a physician looking for flexibility or a startup founder scaling your vision—this is the podcast for you.
🔹 No fluff.
🔹 No hype.
🔹 Just the raw, unfiltered truth about making telemedicine work.
Welcome to Telemedicine Talks—let's get into it.
44episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
#53 - How Telehealth Gets Covered: What Health Plans, Medicaid, and Medicare Want
Jan 2700:52:22Tap to summarizeWhy do so many telehealth and digital health startups struggle when they try to work with health plans, Medicaid, or Medicare?In this episode of Telemedicine Talks, Phoebe Gutierrez and Dr. Leo Damasco are joined by Sunshine Moore, who specializes in translating between startups, payers, and government programs. Together, they pull back the curtain on how health policy really works, and why understanding it is essential for anyone building or scaling a healthcare business.Sunshine explains why direct-to-consumer telehealth models don’t always translate to public payers, how Medicaid and Medicare populations differ dramatically from privately insured patients, and why speaking “health plan language” matters more than flashy technology. They explore how states measure success using cost, quality, and access—and why metrics like HEDIS, network adequacy, and ROI drive coverage decisions.The conversation also dives into rural health transformation funding, niche population strategies, employer benefits, behavioral health access, and why some of the most impactful healthcare innovations aren’t “sexy” at all—they simply solve real problems for vulnerable populations. From health policy history to practical advice for startups, this episode reframes how innovation actually happens in healthcare.Three Actionable Takeaways:Health Plans Buy Outcomes, Not IdeasNo matter how innovative a product is, payers care about measurable impact—cost reduction, quality improvement, and expanded access. If it doesn’t align with how states and plans are evaluated, it won’t get traction.Medicaid and Medicare Require a Different PlaybookPublic payer populations are often hard to reach, less tech-enabled, and account for the majority of healthcare costs. Successful solutions must be population-focused, not consumer-focused.Start Small, Prove Value, Then ScaleStates copy each other. Health plans replicate pilots across markets. Winning in a smaller, more accessible state or niche population can unlock broader adoption nationwide.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:Sunshine Moore Anger is a health policy consultant and former health plan leader who helps startups, providers, and organizations navigate Medicaid, Medicare, and complex payer landscapes. Known for her ability to “translate” between innovators and insurers, Sunshine specializes in population health strategy, public programs, and regulatory alignment.📧 Email: sunshinemoreconsulting@gmail.com🔗 LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/sunshinemooreangerAbout 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/ phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com (mailto:phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com)TagsTelehealth Policy, Health Plans, Medicaid, Medicare, Digital Health Startups, Population Health, Health Innovation, Rural Health, Behavioral Health, Healthcare RegulationHashtags#TelemedicineTalks #HealthPolicy #DigitalHealth #Medicaid #Medicare #Telehealth #PopulationHealth #HealthcareInnovation #PayerStrategy #HealthTech 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.
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#52 -What if unlocking capital for your healthcare practice was as simple as skipping the paperwork?
Jan 2000:42:11Tap to summarizeWhat if securing capital for your healthcare practice didn't mean drowning in paperwork or facing endless rejections?In this engaging kickoff to 2026, hosts Phoebe Gutierrez and Dr. Leo Damasco chat with Sharmeen Aqeel, about demystifying finances for independent healthcare providers. From breaking down P&L statements into simple cash inflows and outflows to navigating options like big banks versus private lenders, they explore how to track key metrics like patient statistics and fixed costs without needing an accountant. Sharmeen shares real-world examples of clinics overcoming funding hurdles for marketing, equipment, and growth, emphasizing the role of revenue-based funding and quick capital. Drawing from her design background and fintech expertise, she highlights Lyyvora's AI-driven platform that matches borrowers with multiple lenders for the best offers, plus tools for assessing readiness and improving financial health. Phoebe and Leo add insights from their experiences in telehealth and startups, discussing bottlenecks like cash flow for marketing and scaling tech.If you're a physician, clinician, or entrepreneur building a practice in telemedicine or beyond, this episode provides practical advice on raising capital, avoiding high-interest traps, and pursuing your business dreams with confidence.Three Actionable Takeaways:Simplify your financial tracking: Focus on key basics like patient statistics (e.g., cost per patient vs. revenue), fixed vs. variable costs, and cash inflows/outflows—use tools like bank statements and calendars to project growth without complex spreadsheets.Explore funding options wisely: Compare big banks (for larger, slower loans like acquisitions) with private lenders (for fast capital on marketing or payroll, with rates 8-15%); shop multiple offers and consider revenue-based funding that flexes with your monthly earnings.Assess and prepare for loans: Use platforms like Lyyvora to match with lenders based on your revenue, bank health, and business tenure—get a readiness score, improve weak areas with templates, and persist through rejections by refining your story around clientele growth.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: Sharmeen Aqeel is the founder and CEO of Lyyvora, a fintech platform simplifying capital access for independent healthcare practices via AI-matched loans from private lenders (8-15% rates). With a design background in UX and product leadership, she focuses on human-centered solutions, demystifying finances like P&L statements and patient metrics. Her Advice: Take risks, persist through rejections. LinkedIn: Sharmeen AqeelWebsite: https://lyyvora.comAbout 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/ phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com (mailto: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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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#51 - AI in Healthcare: Slippery Slope or Game-Changer? Reacting to Utah's AI Prescription Pilot and ChatGPT's Health Tools
Jan 1300:38:50Tap to summarizeThis episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.__________________________What if AI could renew your prescriptions or diagnose your symptoms, but at the cost of losing the human touch that catches life's nuances?In this timely discussion, hosts Phoebe Gutierrez and Dr. Leo Damasco react to breaking developments in AI-driven healthcare. They unpack Utah's innovative pilot program partnering with Doct.ai to automate prescription renewals for long-term meds, debating whether it streamlines care or risks overprescribing and bias. The conversation shifts to ChatGPT's health tools, including HIPAA concerns, data privacy, and potential for misuse by vulnerable users like teens. Drawing from personal experiences as providers and parents, they highlight AI's strengths as a supplemental tool e.g., for research or differentials, versus the dangers of full autonomy, emphasizing the irreplaceable role of physician gestalt, context, and independence. Real-world examples like Open Evidence and UpToDate illustrate AI done right, while raising alarms about corporate incentives, edge cases, and moral compasses in tech.If you're a physician, health tech enthusiast, or patient navigating AI's rise, this episode offers balanced insights on innovation, regulation, and safeguarding human elements in medicine.Three Actionable Takeaways:Evaluate AI as a tool, not a replacement: Use platforms like Open Evidence or UpToDate for expedited research and differentials, but always apply your clinical judgment to interpret results, review sources and context before acting.Prioritize patient safety in AI adoption: For renewals or diagnostics, insist on human oversight to catch nuances like lifestyle changes or contraindications; question biases in algorithms and demand transparency on training data e.g., specialist breakdowns.Engage in the conversation: Share your experiences with AI in healthcare via comments or reach out to Phoebe and Leo. Join discussions on ethics, privacy (e.g., HIPAA gaps in ChatGPT), and pilots like Utah's to influence safer implementations.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/ phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com (mailto: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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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#50: Phoebe’s Favorite Episode of 2025: From Handbag Designer to Telemedicine Trailblazer
Jan 600:40:44Tap to summarizeThis episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.__________________________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: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.Start with Leadership Roles – Physicians and providers can break into telemedicine through collaborating physician or medical director roles—great stepping stones to bigger opportunities.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 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/phoebe@telemedicinetalks.comAbout 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 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.
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#9: From Handbag Designer to Telemedicine Trailblazer: Building a Health Tech Revolution
Apr 1, 202500:39:59Tap to summarizeSponsored by: Set For LifeSet 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._____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: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.Start with Leadership Roles – Physicians and providers can break into telemedicine through collaborating physician or medical director roles—great stepping stones to bigger opportunities.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 TurtizinAbout 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 modelsConnect with Phoebe Gutierrez:https://www.linkedin.com/in/pkgutierrez/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.
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#8: BONUS EPISODE - Medicare’s Last-Minute Telehealth Extension: What It Means for You
Mar 26, 202500:15:00Tap to summarizeSponsored by: Set For LifeSet 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._______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.Three Actionable Takeaways: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.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.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.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:🔗 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.
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#7 - Telehealth in 2025: The Medicare Policy Changes That Could Affect You
Mar 25, 202500:24:55Tap to summarizeThis episode is sponsored by: Set For LifeSet 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.
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Ep6: Barriers to Telemedicine – Addressing Common Concerns
Mar 18, 202500:29:08Tap to summarizeThis 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___________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.Three Actionable Takeaways: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.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.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.About the Show: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: 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.
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Ep5: The Future of Weight Loss in Telemedicine: Navigating the FDA Shakeup
Mar 11, 202500:20:03Tap to summarizeThis episode is sponsored by: Set For LifeSet 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_________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.Three Actionable Takeaways: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.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.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.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/pkgutierrezEmail: phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com 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.
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Ep4: The Case Against Telemedicine – Dr. Hussain Mithaiwala’s Unfiltered Perspective
Mar 4, 202500:24:51Tap to summarizeThis episode is sponsored by: Set For Life InsuranceSet 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_______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).Three Actionable Takeaways: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.Vet Your Collaborators: If you’re supervising other providers, know them personally. Trust is crucial when your license is on the line.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.About the Show: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 Guest:🔹 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: 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.
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