Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn a bold idea into a thriving career? For one dermatologist, the answer was a daring decision to break free from traditional constraints and build a practice that spans the entire United States. By securing medical licenses in all 50 states, plus a few territories, she transformed her career, earning an impressive $870,000 in a single year. Her story isn’t just about financial success—it’s about resilience, innovation, and a commitment to making healthcare accessible to those who need it most.
The Journey to Nationwide Practice
In a world where most doctors are tied to one or two states, one physician dared to dream bigger. Inspired by a personal experience—her father’s unexpected layoff from a hospital job—she decided to take control of her career. The rise of telehealth during the pandemic opened her eyes to new possibilities, sparking the idea to practice medicine on a national scale. “Why limit myself?” she thought, and thus began her ambitious journey to become licensed across the country.
The High Cost of Ambition
Getting licensed in every state is no small feat. Each state has its own rules, fees, and bureaucratic hurdles. From notarized documents to background checks, the process is a maze of paperwork and patience. For her, the costs added up quickly—$180,000 in total, covering everything from application fees to travel expenses for in-person requirements.
It’s a hefty price tag, but I see it as an investment in my future. The freedom to work anywhere is worth every penny.
She paid for it all out of pocket, a bold move that raised eyebrows among colleagues and even her family. “People thought I was nuts,” she admitted with a laugh. But she pressed on, driven by a vision of financial independence and professional flexibility.
Why Go Nationwide?
The decision to pursue nationwide licensing wasn’t just about money—it was about freedom and impact. By practicing in every state, she could reach patients in places where dermatologists are scarce, like rural towns or underserved communities. The ability to offer both virtual and in-person care gave her a unique edge, allowing her to connect with people from all walks of life.
- Access to a broader patient base, from urban centers to remote areas.
- Flexibility to work from anywhere, blending telehealth with occasional travel.
- Opportunity to serve underserved populations, including indigenous communities.
Perhaps the most rewarding aspect, she noted, was meeting patients from places she’d never heard of—small towns like Raton, New Mexico, or remote villages in Alaska. Each new patient brought a story, a unique medical challenge, and a chance to make a difference.
The Financial Payoff
The investment in licensing paid off handsomely. In 2024, her practice brought in over $870,000, a combination of her primary office earnings in Coral Gables, Florida, and income from telehealth contracts across the country. She also boosted her income through strategic investments, like renting out two properties, showcasing her knack for financial diversification.
| Income Source | Contribution |
| Main Practice (Coral Gables) | Primary revenue driver |
| Telehealth Contracts | Significant supplemental income |
| Property Rentals | Additional passive income |
While the numbers are impressive, she emphasized that the real reward is the freedom to work on her terms. “I love the variety,” she said. “One day I’m helping a patient in California, the next I’m consulting with someone in Guam. It keeps things fresh and exciting.”
Serving the Underserved
Beyond the financial success, her work has a deeper purpose. She’s passionate about reaching patients who struggle to access quality healthcare, particularly in rural and indigenous communities. By traveling to places like Alaska and California, she’s able to provide care to those who might otherwise go without.
There’s something incredibly fulfilling about helping people who don’t have easy access to specialists. It’s not just a job—it’s a mission.
– The dermatologist
She could focus on high-profit procedures like cosmetic treatments, but her heart lies in addressing real medical needs. This commitment to service sets her apart in a field where financial gain often overshadows patient care.
Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Her story offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to break free from traditional career paths. Whether you’re a doctor, a business owner, or someone with a big idea, her journey highlights the importance of taking calculated risks and thinking outside the box.
- Invest in yourself: Spending $180,000 on licensing was a gamble, but it paid off by opening new opportunities.
- Embrace technology: Telehealth allowed her to scale her practice in ways traditional medicine couldn’t.
- Focus on impact: Serving underserved communities not only feels good but also builds a loyal patient base.
I’ve always believed that the best careers are built on passion and purpose. Her story reminds me that success isn’t just about the money—it’s about creating a life that aligns with your values and goals.
The Power of Flexibility
One of the most intriguing aspects of her story is the flexibility her nationwide practice affords. She’s not tied to one city or state, which gives her the freedom to travel, explore new places, and meet diverse patients. This flexibility also protects her from the unpredictability of the healthcare industry, like the layoff her father faced.
In my experience, this kind of adaptability is a game-changer. It’s like having a safety net that lets you take risks without fear of falling. For her, that net is her ability to practice anywhere, anytime.
Challenges Along the Way
Of course, the road to success wasn’t without bumps. The licensing process was grueling, requiring endless paperwork, travel, and even exams in some cases. She had to navigate complex state regulations and stay organized to keep track of it all.
“It was exhausting,” she admitted. “There were moments I questioned if it was worth it. But every time I connected with a new patient, it reminded me why I started.”
What’s Next?
Looking ahead, she plans to continue growing her practice while staying true to her mission of accessibility. She’s exploring ways to expand her telehealth offerings and is considering partnerships with organizations that serve remote communities. Her story is far from over, and it’s clear she’s just getting started.
Her journey is a testament to what’s possible when you combine vision, hard work, and a willingness to take risks. It’s not just about the money—though $870,000 a year certainly doesn’t hurt. It’s about building a career that’s as fulfilling as it is successful.
Success isn’t about following the usual path. It’s about creating your own and making a difference along the way.
For anyone dreaming of breaking free from the norm, her story is a powerful reminder: sometimes, the boldest moves lead to the biggest rewards. What’s your next big move?
