If you believe your role as a physician includes being an advocate for and empowering patients, you may want to consider a role as a patient advocate.

TYPICAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Help patients and/or their families:

• Understand their diagnoses and what questions to ask their healthcare team.
• Navigate the healthcare system.
• Obtain second opinions.
• Communicate with the medical team and oversee the care.
• Anticipate and prepare for the needs of a loved one requiring skilled nursing at home or in a facility.
• Pick out the best health insurance plans.

You do not provide medical advice.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Full-time employment.

There are third party companies that contract with health insurers to provide patient advocates as part of member benefits. Physicians may start out part-time.

Part-time employment.

Some Telehealth companies (ex. Teladoc) provide contract 1099, 10-15 hours per week opportunities.

Start your own business or side-gig.

WHAT TYPE OF PHYSICIAN IS A GOOD FIT?

• You are a natural advocate for your patients.
• You are curious and enjoy researching medical diagnoses, insurance, or health facility options.
• You can explain complex concepts in simple terms.
• You have excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• You are well-organized.
• You can work independently.
• Any medical or surgical specialty can do this work.

ROLES TO SEARCH FOR

Patient advocate.
Patient case manager.

EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

• MD or DO.
• Board certification.
• Active State Medical License.

TYPICAL INCOME

~USD 95.00 – USD 300.00 per hour depending on experience and location. This rate will be higher for specialists.