Physician Side Gigs Surge Amid Stagnant Salaries and Rising Burnout
Across the United States, an increasing number of physicians are turning to side gigs as a solution to stagnant salaries and rising burnout. A 2025 MedScape survey revealed that 40% of doctors now engage in side work. Additionally, about 75% of those involved in side gigs report feeling equal or greater fulfillment compared to their traditional clinical practices.
The Shift Towards Side Gigs
This trend is not merely a response to stress but also a reaction to restrictive pay structures and limited career advancement opportunities. Currently, side gigs contribute to approximately 10% of an average physician’s income, though this reliance may grow as challenges in the medical field continue.
Individual Stories of Success
Dr. Naomi Lawrence-Reid, a pediatrician, illustrates how a side gig can evolve into a full-fledged career. Initially dissatisfied with her lack of growth within the academic system, she chose to leave after experiencing disrespect in her work environment. Addressing broken equipment with makeshift fixes served as her turning point.
Creating New Opportunities
- Shifted to per diem work as an independent contractor for greater negotiation power.
- Developed income streams through various avenues such as medical aesthetics and veteran disability exams.
- Formed “Doctoring Differently” to teach fellow physicians about financial independence.
Dr. Lawrence-Reid emphasizes the importance of autonomy alongside financial success, stating, “Medicine will change when we as physicians have options outside of clinical medicine.”
Balancing Academia and Entrepreneurial Ventures
Similarly, Dr. Brittne Halford, who practices internal medicine at Harvard Medical School, demonstrates how side gigs can supplement an academic career. Besides her clinical duties, she has also ventured into entrepreneurship, running an Etsy store that sells protective hair accessories. This business allows her to provide employment for her daughter, serving both financial and educational purposes.
Financial Literacy Initiatives
- Founded “More Joy More Wealth,” a financial coaching service for women in healthcare.
- Utilized her experience to pay off $138,000 in student loans in under three years.
- Created a YouTube channel focusing on financial education for healthcare professionals.
Halford also invests in real estate, including a laundromat, which creates additional income and potential generational wealth. Her tax expertise aids in maximizing deductions to minimize tax liability from her physician income.
The Importance of Side Gigs
As the culture of side gigs continues to rise, physicians like Lawrence-Reid and Halford are paving the way for their peers. Side gigs are evolving from being an auxiliary income source to becoming integral to many physicians’ professional lives. Education, financial confidence, and shared experiences can empower more physicians to embrace this trend, diversify their income, and achieve financial stability.
