
Fixing Healthcare Podcast
FHC #165: Why doctors are doing side gigs
Feb 19, 2025
Dr. Jonathan Fisher, a cardiologist and author of "Just One Heart," discusses the trend of physicians pursuing side gigs—40% of doctors now supplement their income with an average of $34,000 annually. The conversation highlights rising burnout, financial pressures, and shifting generational attitudes toward work. Fisher explores whether these side endeavors serve as creative outlets or sources of stability. He also addresses the impact of AI on healthcare roles and the evolving nature of medical practice, emphasizing the need for healthcare organizations to adapt.
51:15
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Quick takeaways
- The rise of physician side gigs, with 40% of doctors earning an average of $34,000 annually, highlights the impact of burnout and job dissatisfaction in healthcare.
- The transition from private practice to hospital employment has led doctors to seek creative outlets outside traditional medicine, necessitating a cultural reevaluation of their roles.
Deep dives
The Rise of Physician Side Gigs
A significant trend observed in medicine is the increasing number of physicians engaging in side gigs, with approximately 40% supplementing their income through various activities outside their primary practice. This shift contrasts sharply with the past, where the medical career was typically seen as a lifelong commitment to a single path. The earnings from these side ventures can average around $34,000 annually, indicating a substantial economic incentive that many physicians pursue. The implications of this trend extend to patient care, physician availability, and the potential for decreased focus on traditional medical practice, as doctors balance multiple professional responsibilities.
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