#66 - How Two Type 1 Diabetics Built Their Dream Telemedicine Practice

In this inspiring episode, Phoebe Gutierrez welcomes Savannah and Katie to share the raw, behind-the-scenes story of launching Type 1 Telehealth,  a telemedicine practice created by Type 1 diabetics, for Type 1 diabetics.

The duo opens up about the moment they decided to break away from traditional endocrinology, the surprisingly fast timeline from idea to seeing patients, and the key lessons learned in their first two months. They discuss their unique patient-centered model including longer visits, flexible membership options, and true education, creative marketing strategies like community involvement with Breakthrough T1D, staying current with diabetes technology, and why they chose a cash-pay telemedicine approach.

Savannah and Katie also share honest reflections on the challenges of wearing every hat as new practice owners, the power of true partnership, navigating a supervising physician relationship, and how their lived experience as Type 1 patients helps them deliver care that patients have been desperately seeking.

This episode is packed with practical advice and motivation for any clinician dreaming of building their own telemedicine practice,  especially those passionate about a specific niche.

Top 3 Takeaways:

Build What You Wish Existed for Yourself: When you create a practice rooted in your own lived experience and passion, you naturally attract the right patients and stand out in a crowded market. Start Small, Stay Nimble, and Pivot Quickly: Be willing to wear every hat in the beginning, learn operations hands-on, and pivot fast when something isn’t working. Savannah and Katie credit their rapid progress to flexibility, constant learning, and support from communities like IPAC. Longer, Deeper Visits and True Advocacy Win Patients: Offering unhurried consultations, comprehensive education on technology and lifestyle, and acting as fierce patient advocates leads to high conversion rates and extremely satisfied patients who finally feel heard.

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 Guests:

Savannah Elkins (PA-C) and Katie Wakeland (NP) are the co-founders of Type 1 Telehealth, a Texas-based telemedicine practice specializing exclusively in Type 1 Diabetes care. Both are practicing clinicians and Type 1 diabetics themselves. Passionate about providing personalized, accessible, and comprehensive care, they left traditional endocrinology to create a practice that delivers the level of time, education, and advocacy they always wished existed for patients like them.

🔗 Connect with Type 1 Telehealth:

🌐 Website: https://www.type1telehealth.com

📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/type1telehealth

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.

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