Telemedicine as a Career, Not a Side Gig

Key Takeaways

• Medicare telehealth visits jumped from 0.84M to 52.7M in 2020.
• Physicians calling telemedicine a “side gig” hinder licensing and skill development.
• Multi‑state licensing and contract expertise improve virtual care continuity.
• Treating telehealth as a career boosts patient outcomes and physician autonomy.
• Specialty societies for digital health can shift professional perception.

Pulse Analysis

The rapid expansion of telemedicine during the COVID‑19 crisis proved that virtual care is more than a temporary fix. Medicare alone recorded a 63‑fold increase in telehealth claims, and commercial insurers have followed suit, cementing a new revenue stream for providers. This sustained demand has prompted health systems to invest in platform infrastructure and reimbursement pathways, signaling that remote visits are now a permanent fixture in the healthcare landscape.

Despite the market momentum, many physicians continue to describe their virtual practice as a "side gig," a linguistic habit that reinforces a hierarchical view of medicine. This framing discourages clinicians from pursuing multi‑state licensure, mastering platform workflows, or negotiating robust contracts—steps essential for delivering consistent, high‑quality care across state lines. The result is a fragmented workforce where expertise is uneven, potentially compromising patient safety and continuity.

To unlock the full potential of digital health, the profession must build the same support structures that other fields enjoy. Specialty societies, credentialing bodies, and dedicated training programs can legitimize telemedicine as a distinct career path. Initiatives like AIR Physician Academy already provide licensing strategy, contract negotiation, and community mentorship, helping physicians transition from ad‑hoc side work to sustainable virtual practices. As the ecosystem matures, a shift in language will likely accelerate adoption, improve outcomes, and attract talent seeking flexibility without sacrificing professional rigor.