Going All-In on Telemedicine: Is It Right for You?

Imagine this: you’re done with the long shifts, the endless bureaucracy, and the feeling that someone else is controlling your time. You want more freedom, more autonomy, and the ability to truly build something for yourself. That’s what going all-in on telemedicine is all about.

But let’s be real—it’s not just about working from home in your pajamas. It’s a shift in mindset, one that trades stability for independence, and predictability for possibility. So, is it the right move for you? Let’s break it down.


What Does “Going All-In” Really Mean?

First, let’s clarify what we’re talking about. Going all-in on telemedicine means stepping away from the security of a W-2 job—steady paychecks, employer-provided benefits, and a predictable schedule—and embracing the world of independent contracting. As a 1099 contractor, you’re calling the shots.

It’s not just a job change; it’s a lifestyle shift. You’re trading the comfort of being an employee for the opportunity to build something that’s entirely yours.


Who Is This For?

Not everyone thrives in the world of telemedicine entrepreneurship. It’s a good fit if you:

  • Crave Flexibility: You’re tired of someone else deciding your hours. You want to set your own schedule, whether that’s working nights, weekends, or just a few hours a day.
  • Value Autonomy: You want to run your practice, make your own decisions, and have full control over your career.
  • Have an Entrepreneurial Spirit: You like the idea of building something from scratch—choosing your niche, setting up your systems, and marketing your services.
  • Are Willing to Take Risks: You understand that there’s no guaranteed paycheck or safety net, but you’re confident in your ability to make it work.

On the flip side, it might not be for you if you thrive on structure, prefer a steady paycheck, or aren’t ready to manage the administrative side of running your own business.


The Freedom of Being Your Own Boss

One of the biggest draws of telemedicine is the freedom it offers. You decide when, where, and how you work. Want to consult with patients from a cabin in the woods? Go for it. Need to adjust your hours to spend more time with family? You can.

But with freedom comes responsibility. You’re managing your own schedule, setting boundaries, and staying disciplined to avoid burnout. The freedom is real, but so is the hustle.


From Employee to Entrepreneur

Here’s the big mindset shift: as an independent contractor, you’re not just working a job—you’re running a business. That means:

  • Defining Your Niche: What kind of telemedicine do you want to focus on? Urgent care? Women’s health? Mental health? Finding your specialty is key to standing out.
  • Building Your Brand: Patients won’t just come to you; you’ll need to market yourself and establish your credibility online.
  • Handling Admin Work: Taxes, contracts, licensing, and compliance are all on you now. It’s not glamorous, but it’s essential.

It can feel overwhelming at first, but remember: every system you put in place is an investment in your success.


The Financial Upside

Here’s the exciting part: when you’re working for yourself, your income potential is no longer capped. Instead of earning a set salary, your revenue is tied to your effort and strategy.

Want to earn more? You can take on additional patients, expand into more states, or add services like asynchronous care. It’s incredibly empowering to know you’re in control of how much you earn. That said, the flip side is that you need to be proactive. No one’s handing you a paycheck every two weeks—you’re creating it yourself.


What’s the Catch?

There’s no sugarcoating it: going all-in comes with risks. You’re responsible for your own benefits, retirement savings, and taxes. If you’re not careful, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the business side of things.

But here’s the good news: with the right tools, planning, and mindset, these challenges are manageable. Many telemedicine entrepreneurs thrive because they embrace these responsibilities as part of building something meaningful.


Is It Worth It?

If you’re someone who values independence and wants to chart your own path, the answer is a resounding yes. Telemedicine offers the chance to create a career that fits your life—not the other way around. But it’s not a decision to take lightly. Success requires discipline, planning, and a willingness to adapt.

Ultimately, going all-in on telemedicine isn’t just a career move; it’s a choice to bet on yourself. If you’re ready to take control of your career, set your own terms, and build something truly yours, this might be the leap you’ve been waiting for.


Are you ready to make the shift? It’s not about having all the answers—it’s about taking that first step and figuring it out along the way. You’ve got this! 

Want to learn more? Sign up for our waitlist for either our Elite or Launch Course to get started. 

 

 

 

Post by: Phoebe GutierrezSuneer C.
Suneer is an AIR co-founder and coach

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