Telemedicine Talks

Phoebe Gutierrez, Dr. Leo Damasco, Doctor Podcast Network

Telemedicine isn’t the future—it’s happening now. But for physicians and startups, it’s a world filled with unanswered questions, regulatory landmines, and a steep learning curve. Welcome to Telemedicine Talks, where we cut through the chaos and give you the real story behind digital healthcare. Hosted by Dr. Leo Damasco, a pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor who built his career in telemedicine, and Phoebe Gutierrez, a former state regulator turned startup strategist, this podcast explores what works, what doesn’t, and what no one else is talking about. 🚀 How do you build a sustainable telemedicine career? ⚖️ What legal and compliance risks are lurking beneath the surface? 💡 How can startups and physicians work together without burning out—or blowing up? We don’t sugarcoat. We don’t do corporate jargon. We bring you real stories, hard-earned lessons, and expert insights from the front lines of telemedicine. If you're ready to navigate this space with confidence—whether you’re a physician looking for flexibility or a startup founder scaling your vision—this is the podcast for you. 🔹 No fluff. 🔹 No hype. 🔹 Just the raw, unfiltered truth about making telemedicine work. Welcome to Telemedicine Talks—let's get into it.

  1. 1d ago

    #82 - Ownership, Flexibility & Solving Medication Access: The Refill Genie Story

    In this episode of Telemedicine Talks, Dr. Steve Kelly discusses his transition from emergency medicine to telehealth and entrepreneurship. After years of ER shifts, locum tenens, and per diem work, Steve eventually went all-in on virtual care. Steve explains how he founded Refill Genie to address a common, high-impact problem: patients losing access to essential chronic medications (especially blood-pressure meds) and ending up in the ER or simply going without. Drawing on experience across video and asynchronous platforms, he focused on “bridge” refills and chronic-care access that many telehealth companies avoid. The conversation covers the mental shift away from the “ER doc” identity, the value of meaning found in preventing unnecessary ER visits, and the practical steps of building a company: using existing HIPAA-compliant tools instead of custom software, hiring freelancers via Upwork, navigating multi-state licensing and corporate structures (PC/MSO), and prioritizing clinical quality amid regulatory gray areas. Steve emphasizes starting small, learning on the fly, and maintaining high standards so that any scrutiny finds good patient care at the core. Listeners will hear honest advice on risk tolerance, compliance realities across 49+ states, and why asking more questions (not fewer) is the advice he would give his intern self. Top 3 Takeaways: Reclaim ownership of time and career: Locums and telehealth offered control that full-time hospital work lacked; the shift from ER identity to telehealth entrepreneur was gradual but ultimately freeing and meaningful. Solve one tangible problem: Refill Genie grew from a recurring ER observation, patients off essential meds due to access barriers,into a focused telehealth service that prevents downstream harm. Bootstrap smart and prioritize quality: Use existing compliant tools, freelancers, and incremental growth instead of waiting for perfect systems or VC money; clinical quality remains the best protection when navigating multi-state rules.   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: Dr. Steve Kelly is a former emergency medicine physician who trained at Baystate in Massachusetts. After years of full-time ER work, locum tenens, and part-time telehealth, he founded Refill Genie, a multi-state telehealth company focused on medication access and bridge refills for chronic conditions. He now works full-time in telehealth (roughly 60% running Refill Genie) and is actively hiring physicians with multiple state licenses. Connect with Dr. Steve Kelly: Email: stephenkelly@refillgenie.com LinkedIn: Search “Steve Kelly” / Refill Genie Currently hiring physicians with multiple state licenses About 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/     phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com  (mailto:phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com)   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.

  2. Aug 4

    #81 - From Burnout to Digital Nomad: Building a Freedom-First Career in Medicine | Dr. Kristine Goins

    This episode is sponsored by NURP NURP helps busy physicians grow their wealth through AI-powered algorithmic trading designed for demanding careers. No day trading, no guesswork, and no constant market watching required.  Ready to put your money to work? Visit start.nurp.com/doctors  to learn more.  Trading involves risk, and results may vary. This is not financial advice. __________________________________ In this inspiring episode of Telemedicine Talks, Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez welcome Dr. Christine Goins, board-certified integrative adult and pediatric psychiatrist, physician coach, and digital nomad. After years of extreme burnout (chest pain, insomnia, muscle spasms) while working in 10 clinics a week, serving as associate program director, and chairing a DEI committee, Dr. Goins realized the problem wasn’t serotonin, it was the lifestyle. She resigned from her academic position, booked a one-way ticket to Colombia, and began designing a career around the life she actually wanted. Today she runs Nomad MD, coaching burned-out physicians on how to create remote, location-independent practices (often cash-pay) so they can work less and live anywhere. The conversation covers the identity shift required to step away from traditional clinical roles, the financial fears that keep doctors stuck, practical realities of practicing medicine while living abroad (taxes, licensing, controlled substances), why owning your own practice gives the greatest autonomy, and how living in 17+ countries has reshaped her view of what a doctor’s life can look like. Top 3 Takeaways: Start with the life you want (where you wake up, how many hours you work, what Tuesdays look like), then design the career to support it, not the other way around. The financial fear is real, but living abroad can dramatically lower expenses while preserving (or increasing) income, accelerating financial freedom rather than jeopardizing it. Full autonomy comes from owning your practice (cash-based or contracted through your own LLC) rather than remaining an employee, especially when practicing across borders. 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 Dr. Kristine Goins is a board-certified integrative adult and pediatric psychiatrist, physician coach, and digital nomad. After experiencing severe burnout in academic medicine, she founded Nomad MD to help physicians replace their income remotely and build freedom-first careers. She has lived and worked in 17+ countries and currently divides her time between locations such as Guadalajara, Italy, South Africa, and Bocas del Toro, Panama. Connect with Dr.Kristine Goins: Website: thenomadmd.com Instagram: @TheNomadMDs Facebook: The Nomad MDs About 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/        phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com      (mailto:phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com) 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.

    #81 - From Burnout to Digital Nomad: Building a Freedom-First Career in Medicine | Dr. Kristine Goins
  3. Jul 28

    #80 - Why Most Doctors Fail at Marketing (And How to Fix It) | Ashley Gay

    This episode is sponsored by NURP NURP helps busy physicians grow their wealth through AI-powered algorithmic trading designed for demanding careers. No day trading, no guesswork, and no constant market watching required.  Ready to put your money to work? Visit start.nurp.com/doctors  to learn more.  Trading involves risk, and results may vary. This is not financial advice. __________________________________ In this practical episode of Telemedicine Talks, host Phoebe Gutierrez welcomes Ashley Gay as she shares her unique journey from graphic designer to physician marketing expert after supporting her husband through medical school, residency, fellowship, and the launch of his own practice. The conversation focuses on the critical (and often overlooked) marketing foundations that determine whether a private practice or telemedicine venture actually attracts and retains patients. Topics include naming and visual branding decisions that support long-term growth, the power of Google Business Profiles and local SEO, the importance of frictionless online scheduling, dual business-card networking strategies for referrals, realistic approaches to paid ads versus organic social, and the compliance minefield of healthcare marketing (HIPAA, BAAs, Stark, fake testimonials, and more). Ashley and Phoebe emphasize shifting from a physician-centric mindset to a true consumer/patient perspective, reducing friction, building trust, and creating an experience that makes patients choose (and stay with) you. Top 3 Takeaways: Lay the foundation first: correct naming, clear vision, strong visual brand, optimized website content, and a fully worked Google Business Profile before spending money on ads or socials. Patient experience is marketing. Easy online booking, fast responses, legible branding, and frictionless processes convert far better than clever logos or generic social posts. Marketing is not free and is not one-size-fits-all. Choose strategies that fit your personality and bandwidth (networking, local SEO, carefully managed ads) and always prioritize healthcare-specific compliance. 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 Ashley Gay is a branding and marketing strategist who has worked with both large companies and independent physician practices. With a background in graphic design and a marketing degree, she has supported her physician husband through training and private practice launch. She now helps clinicians build authentic brands, attract patients, and grow sustainable independent practices and telemedicine ventures through Digital Ash Agency. Connect with Ashley Gay: Website: digitalashagency.com Instagram:  @md.brand.pro About the Host:     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/        phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com     (mailto:phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com) 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.

    #80 - Why Most Doctors Fail at Marketing (And How to Fix It) | Ashley Gay
  4. Jul 21

    #79 - From Malpractice Defendant to Litigation Coach : What Every Telemedicine Doctor Needs to Know

    This episode is sponsored by NURP NURP helps busy physicians grow their wealth through AI-powered algorithmic trading designed for demanding careers. No day trading, no guesswork, and no constant market watching required.  Ready to put your money to work? Visit start.nurp.com/doctors  to learn more.  Trading involves risk, and results may vary. This is not financial advice. __________________________________ In this eye-opening episode of Telemedicine Talks, Dr. Leo Damasco welcomes Dr. Gita Pensa as she draws from her personal experience of being sued for 12 years,  including two jury trials, to demystify the litigation process for physicians, especially those practicing telemedicine across multiple state licenses. The conversation covers the critical differences between lawsuits and board actions, why litigation is far more common than most doctors realize, the psychological toll of being sued, and practical strategies for performing well in depositions and trials. Dr. Pensa also discusses the distinction between risk management and litigation performance, why most lawsuits don’t end in license loss or personal financial ruin, and how physicians can move from fear to empowerment through education and preparation. Top 3 Takeaways: Litigation is extremely common: If you practice long enough, especially in high-risk fields like EM or telemedicine, it’s often a matter of “when,” not “if.” Understanding the process reduces catastrophic fear. A lawsuit is not the same as a board action: Most cases are dismissed or result in no payment, but physicians must know how to report and respond appropriately, especially with multiple state licenses. Shift from risk management to litigation performance: Learn how to be an effective witness, articulate your reasoning clearly, and protect your mental health so fear doesn’t rob you of joy in practicing medicine.   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 Dr. Gita Penza is a practicing Emergency Physician with extensive experience as a medical malpractice defendant, including two jury trials. After 12 years navigating litigation, she became a coach and educator helping clinicians understand the legal, psychological, and professional realities of malpractice suits. She is the creator and host of the podcast Doctors and Litigation, The L Word, a regular contributor to EMRAP, and co-host of its UCmax program. Connect with Dr. Gita Pensa: Website: https://doctorsandlitigation.com Podcast:  Doctors and Litigation: the L Word Podcast Instagram: @doctors_and_litigation LinkedIn: Gita Pensa, M.D About the Host:   Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemeicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health. Connect with Leo: 
        leo@telemedicinetalks.com        Website: telemedicinetalks.com   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.

    #79 - From Malpractice Defendant to Litigation Coach : What Every Telemedicine Doctor Needs to Know
  5. Jul 14

    #78 - How Physicians Can Build Wealth Beyond Their Practice with Jeff Sekinger

    This episode is sponsored by NURP NURP helps busy physicians grow their wealth through AI-powered algorithmic trading designed for demanding careers. No day trading, no guesswork, and no constant market watching required.  Ready to put your money to work? Visit start.nurp.com/doctors  to learn more.  Trading involves risk, and results may vary. This is not financial advice. __________________________________ In this episode of Telemedicine Talks, Jeff Sekinger joins hosts Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez to break down financial literacy for high-earning professionals. Drawing from his experience at JP Morgan, building Zero Percent (credit & funding), Orca Capital (hedge fund), and NURP (algorithmic trading platform), Jeff explains modern portfolio theory, the power of alternative investments, and why many physicians face concentration risk by keeping everything in their practice or traditional assets. He details how NURP delivers verified algorithmic trading strategies directly into users’ own brokerage accounts, offering liquidity, transparency, and control. The conversation covers the Medallion Fund’s legendary performance, the role of AI and technology in investing, red flags to watch for, and practical advice on starting small, understanding risk-adjusted returns, and avoiding common pitfalls like over-allocation or illiquid real estate headaches. Listeners will gain actionable insights on diversification, testing strategies risk-free, and empowering their capital to work smarter, especially valuable for busy clinicians seeking financial freedom beyond clinical work. Top 3 Takeaways: Diversify with Alternatives: Traditional stock/bond portfolios benefit from a small allocation (1-10%) to uncorrelated alternatives like algorithmic trading to improve risk-adjusted returns and smooth volatility. Transparency & Testing Matter: Look for third-party verified live track records (e.g., MyFXBook), paper trading demos, and real teams behind the platform before committing capital. Start Small & Control Risk: Begin with modest amounts ($10k+), use adjustable risk settings, and avoid over-allocating to any single strategy or asset, especially when exploring new investment types.   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 Jeff Sekinger is the founder of NURP (algorithmic trading software), Zero Percent (credit & funding solutions), and Orca Capital (hedge fund focused on alternative investments). With a background at JP Morgan in asset management, Jeff is passionate about financial education and empowering individuals with technology-driven investment tools. Connect with Jeff Sekinger / NURP: Start a free demo: start.nurp.com/doctors Website: nurp.com About 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/    phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com (mailto:phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com) 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.

    #78 - How Physicians Can Build Wealth Beyond Their Practice with Jeff Sekinger
  6. Jul 7

    #77 - Safe Hormone Therapy, Perimenopause, Menopause & Transgender Care in Telemedicine | Dr. Haydee Docasar

    This episode is sponsored by NURP NURP helps busy physicians grow their wealth through AI-powered algorithmic trading designed for demanding careers. No day trading, no guesswork, and no constant market watching required.  Ready to put your money to work? Visit start.nurp.com/doctors  to learn more.  Trading involves risk, and results may vary. This is not financial advice. __________________________________ In this episode of Telemedicine Talks, Dr. Haydee  Dacasar joins hosts Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez to explore the transformation of hormone care through telemedicine. With 25 years as a practicing OBGYN in Las Vegas, Dr. Dacasar specializes in general gynecology, perimenopause, menopause management, and transgender hormone therapy. She discusses how COVID accelerated telemedicine adoption, enabling her to evolve from in-person seminars to virtual ones that now include family members and mixed groups. Dr. Dacasar emphasizes education as the foundation of safe hormone therapy, the dangers of rushed online prescriptions without labs or exams, and her preference for bioidentical hormones. The conversation covers the shared hormonal challenges across men, women, and transgender patients, the power of root-cause care, and her commitment to risk management through mandatory seminars. Listeners will gain practical advice on finding knowledgeable providers, the role of social media in spreading both information and misinformation, and why personalized protocols matter more than ever. Top 3 Takeaways: Education First: Hormones are safe when done properly. Monthly seminars help patients (and families) understand risks, benefits, and monitoring,  Dr. Dacasar requires them as part of responsible care. Avoid Drive-Through Hormones: Quick online prescriptions without physical exams, labs, or medical history review can cause harm. Always seek experienced providers who create individualized plans. Telemedicine Expands Access & Support: Virtual formats allow broader participation (including partners and family), reduce barriers, and enable consistent education in hormone therapy across diverse patient groups. 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 Dr. Haydee Docasar is a board-certified OBGYN with over 25 years of clinical experience, currently practicing in Las Vegas, Nevada. Her focus areas include general gynecology, perimenopause and menopause care, and transgender hormone therapy. She is known for her monthly educational hormone seminars and commitment to safe, informed patient care. Connect with Dr Haydee Docasar: Website: https://haydeedocasarmd.com/ Email: hdocasar@gmail.com  Instagram: @haydeedocasarmd About 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/   phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com (mailto:phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com) 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.

    #77 - Safe Hormone Therapy, Perimenopause, Menopause & Transgender Care in Telemedicine | Dr. Haydee Docasar
  7. Jun 30

    #76 - Pediatric Telemedicine That Actually Works: Dr. Mona Amin on Poppins, Social Media & Real Care

    This episode is sponsored by NURP NURP helps busy physicians grow their wealth through AI-powered algorithmic trading designed for demanding careers. No day trading, no guesswork, and no constant market watching required.  Ready to put your money to work? Visit start.nurp.com/doctors  to learn more.  Trading involves risk, and results may vary. This is not financial advice. __________________________________ In this episode of Telemedicine Talks, Dr. Leo Damasco sits down with Dr. Mona Amin, as she shares her journey from burned-out in-person practice to leading clinical strategy at Poppins, where they combine on-demand medical care with parent and sleep coaching. The conversation explores the unique value of pediatric telemedicine,  especially for reassurance, triage, and accessible care,  while emphasizing quality medicine over “customer service” care. They also dive into Dr. Mona’s experience building a massive social media following, overcoming mental health challenges, the importance of authenticity, and how physicians can use social platforms effectively. Top 3 Takeaways: Pediatric Telehealth Fills a Critical Gap: Much of pediatrics is reassurance and triage, Poppins gives parents immediate access to real clinicians instead of Google, urgent care, or the ER. Quality Over Volume: True telemedicine success means practicing real medicine (not just prescribing), communicating with PCPs, and focusing on what’s best for the child. Social Media is a Powerful Tool for Physicians: Building an authentic presence takes time, mental resilience, and staying true to your “why” but it can transform your reach and impact.   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 Dr. Mona Amin is a board-certified pediatrician, founder of PedsDocTalk, social media educator, and Chief Medical Officer of Poppins, a pediatric telehealth platform. She is passionate about making healthcare more accessible, combining medical care with parent coaching, and empowering families through clear, reassuring guidance. Connect with Dr. Mona Amin: Instagram: @pedsdoctalk Poppins: heypoppins.com  About 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/   phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com (mailto:phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com) 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.

    #76 - Pediatric Telemedicine That Actually Works: Dr. Mona Amin on Poppins, Social Media & Real Care
  8. Jun 23

    #75 - Why Your MSO-PC Structure Might Be Illegal Now: California & Oregon CPOM Crackdown

    This episode is sponsored by NURP NURP helps busy physicians grow their wealth through AI-powered algorithmic trading designed for demanding careers. No day trading, no guesswork, and no constant market watching required.  Ready to put your money to work? Visit start.nurp.com/doctors  to learn more.  Trading involves risk, and results may vary. This is not financial advice. __________________________________ In this episode of Telemedicine Talks, Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez welcome Brigid Maloney, practice group leader at Lippes Matthias and their legal counsel, for a deep dive into the Corporate Practice of Medicine (CPOM). They explore why approximately 30 states prohibit corporations and non-physicians from practicing medicine, with California and New York being among the strictest. The conversation covers recent California developments, including a new law restricting certain transfer agreements, an Attorney General amicus brief, and a $2.3 million settlement with Aspen Health, and Oregon’s elimination of stock transfer restriction agreements. Brigid explains how these changes impact MSO/PC relationships, the importance of true physician leadership, operational compliance with Management Services Agreements (MSAs), and why “friendly physician” relationships are shifting toward more collaborative, trust-based partnerships. They also discuss best practices for updating documents, the risks of non-compliance, and why physician involvement in business decisions benefits both sides. Top 3 Takeaways: CPOM Is Alive and Enforced: California’s recent actions (new law, AG brief, and Aspen Health settlement) signal strict enforcement. MSOs must restructure relationships with their PCs, especially in California and Oregon. Stock Transfer Restriction Agreements Are Under Fire: California has curbed them, and Oregon eliminated them. Without proper compliant structures, friendly physicians gain full control of the PC, creating major risks for MSOs. Strong Physician-MSO Partnerships Matter: Transactional “signature-only” relationships are fading. Sophisticated, involved physician partners who engage in operations, protocols, and decision-making create better compliance and stronger companies. 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 Brigid  Maloney is a practice group leader for the law practice of Lippes Matthias and serves as legal counsel to Telemedicine Talks. She specializes in healthcare law, with deep expertise in corporate practice of medicine, MSO/PC structures, regulatory compliance, and telemedicine. She is known for her practical, straightforward advice and helps clients build compliant, sustainable healthcare businesses. Connect with Brigid Maloney: Email: bmaloney@lippes.com About 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/   phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com (mailto:phoebe@telemedicinetalks.com)   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.

    #75 - Why Your MSO-PC Structure Might Be Illegal Now: California & Oregon CPOM Crackdown
5
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Telemedicine isn’t the future—it’s happening now. But for physicians and startups, it’s a world filled with unanswered questions, regulatory landmines, and a steep learning curve. Welcome to Telemedicine Talks, where we cut through the chaos and give you the real story behind digital healthcare. Hosted by Dr. Leo Damasco, a pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor who built his career in telemedicine, and Phoebe Gutierrez, a former state regulator turned startup strategist, this podcast explores what works, what doesn’t, and what no one else is talking about. 🚀 How do you build a sustainable telemedicine career? ⚖️ What legal and compliance risks are lurking beneath the surface? 💡 How can startups and physicians work together without burning out—or blowing up? We don’t sugarcoat. We don’t do corporate jargon. We bring you real stories, hard-earned lessons, and expert insights from the front lines of telemedicine. If you're ready to navigate this space with confidence—whether you’re a physician looking for flexibility or a startup founder scaling your vision—this is the podcast for you. 🔹 No fluff. 🔹 No hype. 🔹 Just the raw, unfiltered truth about making telemedicine work. Welcome to Telemedicine Talks—let's get into it.

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