#11 - Building a Safety Net: Insurance Insights for Telemedicine Trailblazers

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.___________When physicians transition from W2 roles to independent telemedicine practices, many overlook a critical piece of the puzzle: disability insurance. In this episode, Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez talk with Jamie Fleischner about why protecting your income is non-negotiable for high-earning professionals like doctors.Jamie shares actionable insights on securing disability insurance before leaving a W2 job, the pitfalls of relying solely on employer group policies, and how individual policies offer flexibility for telemedicine providers. From navigating income verification to understanding “own occupation” coverage, this conversation is a must-listen for any physician considering the leap to independence.Three Actionable Takeaways:Get Coverage Early – Secure disability insurance while you’re still a W2 employee to lock in income verification and lower premiums based on your age and health.Choose “Own Occupation” Policies – Individual policies with “own occupation” clauses ensure you’re covered even if you pivot to telemedicine, unlike group policies that may stop paying if you earn any income.Review Regularly – Reassess your policy every three years or after major life changes (e.g., job transitions, marriage, or buying a home) to ensure it aligns with your current needs.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:Jamie Fleischner is the founder and president of Set for Life Insurance, a company dedicated to helping physicians secure disability and life insurance since 1993. With over 30 years of experience, she has worked with more than 30,000 doctors across the country, offering tailored solutions like Guaranteed Standard Issue (GSI) disability insurance. Inspired by her personal experience caring for her mother during a double lung transplant, Jamie is passionate about ensuring physicians protect their income and financial stability.Website: https://www.setforlifeinsurance.com/LinkedIn: Jamie FleischnerAbout 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/[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])  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.