Side Hustles for Physicians – Overview
As a doctor, you know that in the medical field, it is not uncommon to work 60 or more hours a week. As such, the thought of adding more tasks to that time may sound ridiculous.
However, think of it this way; with a good side hustle, you may be able to eliminate physician burnout and generate extra income. It also raises your profile and diversifies your skill.
With that, here are several side hustles that may go hand in hand with your job.
1. Telemedicine
If you already offer telemedicine options where you work. If not, looking for opportunities to offer telemedicine consultation jobs might be a good idea.
Telemedicine services can encompass a broad range of care beyond minor primary care, including specialty consultations, depending on the physician’s qualifications and the platform’s requirements.
One of the major advantages of venturing into telemedicine is that it is flexible. Telemedicine platforms vary widely in operation, with some offering flexible scheduling while others may have more structured requirements.
2. Writing
Physicians can engage in freelance writing regardless of the time they have been practicing, as opportunities vary from highly specialized topics to more general health content.
As a freelance writer, you can share your knowledge and get paid while at it.
You can begin by researching medical publications or online health sites and pitching your ideas or even searching for non-editorial jobs like medical marketing communications or writing scientific manuscripts.
While many health websites hire medical reviewers, the availability of such positions and the hiring criteria vary significantly.
The options available for you to offer your medical expertise are practically endless as you can also avail yourself as a medical source for journalists to use.
3. Speaking
Imagine being paid just for speaking about what you know. Public speaking engagements offer you an opportunity to do just that.
When you position yourself as a leader in your area of expertise, you also get the chance to network within and outside of the medical field.
In that regard, you want to find a niche that needs filling and find ways to put your perspective on it.
You can start by promoting yourself using platforms such as LinkedIn and pitch your services to conferences and events where your message will fit.
Make it a habit to engage with attendees in such events so they can give you gigs in the future.
4. Blogging and Podcasting
One of the best things about today’s world is that it is technologically advanced and this is a continuous process. As such, you will not need to wait for anyone to hire you if you want to speak or write about anything.
With a simple Google search, you can start podcasting or blogging to reach fellow physicians, patients, or general health consumers.
If you enjoy speaking or writing, you can start blogging or podcasting and earn from it. Of course, it will take some effort, but when you gain a large audience, you can begin attracting advertisers.
5. Expert Witness
As a medical practitioner, you can appear as an expert witness in trials involving medical evidence. Usually, you will be required to explain clinical evidence or medical terms in a simple way that juries and judges can comprehend.
Serving as an expert witness is time-consuming and requires careful time management, balancing this role with clinical responsibilities is critical.
Identify the subject matter and types of cases you would be interested in and contact law firms that can promote your availability.
Over time, this can be a lucrative side hustle.
6. Chart Review
This is usually a part of a bigger medical case review through a hospital or insurance company review.
Your role here would be to research the medical need for prescribed treatments, the length of use, and other factors that help in the objective determination.
Such work’s regularity and financial gain vary from project to project, but undoubtedly, it can boost your income.
While the National Association of Independent Review Organizations (NAIRO) is a relevant resource, physicians seeking chart review opportunities may also explore direct contact with insurance companies and healthcare systems or utilize professional networks and job boards specialized in medical review positions.
Bottom Line
Being a physician often requires you to work long hours but that does not mean you cannot engage in side hustles. Pick any from the ones we have discussed and get an outlet and a chance to earn more.
How to Become a General Surgeon
How to Become an Orthopedic Surgeon
Follow us