Niche Example Playbook for Telehealth: Five Models You Can Build Today

Professional shortages, aging populations, and new treatment methods drive massive cost increases in healthcare systems. Telehealth offers an appealing solution, but research shows many telehealth products fail during implementation or stay stuck in development. Telehealth's core strength comes from its quick healthcare delivery, yet success hinges on picking the right business model for each specific situation.

Our research shows telehealth isn't just one business model—it encompasses multiple distinct approaches. Each approach fits different niches and operational needs. This playbook compares five telehealth business models you can build today. We dissect their market readiness, operational complexity, compliance needs, and profit potential. Each model includes ground niche examples that show how these approaches work in actual patient flows and business operations.

The right model choice makes finding and executing your niche easier, whether you're launching a telehealth startup or growing your healthcare practice. Teladoc Health's platform has brought telemedicine to millions through adaptable technology and AI-powered diagnostics. Their success proves that massive growth comes with the right model choice.

Key Takeaways

• The Niche Example playbook covers five models: prescription, coaching+labs, membership, async dermatology, and hybrid.
• Pick based on CAC/LTV, compliance lift, provider availability, and speed-to-launch.
• Prescription-led niches win on LTV via refills—but demand multi-state licensure and tight SOPs.
• Coaching+labs avoids controlled substances; retention comes from re-testing and biomarker wins.
• Membership care monetizes access and continuity; target 400–600 (DPC) or 100–300 (concierge) members.
• Async derm is the fastest start: photo intake + triage = standardized care and quick turnaround.
• Hybrid (tele + in-person) fits procedures (e.g., Botox, hair restoration) and boosts conversion.
• Launch order: validate demand → map workflow → lock pharmacy/lab partners → ship MVP intake.

Prescription-driven model

The prescription-driven telehealth model has become one of the most profitable approaches in virtual healthcare. This model helps patients access medication through remote consultations without in-person visits while upholding clinical standards. Patient adoption of telehealth skyrocketed from just 11% in 2019 to 46% in 2020. This shift has changed people's expectations about healthcare delivery forever.

Best-fit niches: weight loss, ED, acne, hormones

Specific niches where medication is the main treatment and regular monitoring creates natural retention work best for the prescription model. Weight loss telehealth has found remarkable success, especially with the development of GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and liraglutide. These medications work like natural hormones to reduce appetite, make you feel fuller, slow down digestion, and regulate blood sugar.

On top of that, this model works well for:

• Erectile dysfunction (ED): Many patients prefer privacy over in-person visits
• Acne treatment: Teledermatology shows high patient satisfaction
• Hormone therapy: Including testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)

Medical weight loss gives most practices their best shot at success because it follows proven clinical protocols and attracts high-value patients who stick with multi-month care.

Pros and cons: high LTV vs compliance-heavy

The prescription model's biggest strength lies in patient lifetime value. The entire DTC business model boils down to a vital ratio: LTV/PAC (lifetime value/patient acquisition cost). Monthly fees, product margins, and customer retention rates determine LTV for subscription-based businesses.

Key benefits include:

• Better access for rural patients or those with limited mobility
• More privacy for sensitive health issues
• Less travel makes treatment easier
• Strong retention through medication refills and follow-ups

All the same, this model faces several compliance challenges:

State-by-state licensure remains one of telehealth's most misunderstood aspects. Clinicians must have authorization to practice in their patients' state, even for remote care. This creates a complex regulatory environment.

Patient safety becomes a concern when prescribing without physical exams. Healthcare providers might not get the full picture of a patient's condition, which could lead to wrong diagnoses or treatments.

Telehealth prescriptions rely heavily on reliable technology. Connection problems or EHR system issues can interrupt appointments and cause prescription mistakes.

What you need: provider network, pharmacy flow, documentation

A prescription-driven telehealth business needs these vital components:

1. Provider Network: You need clinicians licensed in multiple states. You can hire them directly or partner with a telehealth provider network that manages credentialing and compliance.
2. Pharmacy Fulfillment: Patients need reliable medication delivery. Good pharmacy fulfillment turns the "last mile" into a positive care experience instead of a weak spot.

Many telehealth organizations find pharmacy fulfillment more challenging than beneficial. Common problems include delayed deliveries, poor tech integration, and limited state licensing.

1. Documentation Systems: Detailed electronic medical records (EMRs) are essential for prescribing. Your system should:

• Create compliant patient charts
• Record consultation notes
• Keep prescription information updated
• Coordinate with pharmacies

Async options and EMR basics

Asynchronous telehealth offers flexibility that video visits can't match. This "store-and-forward" approach lets providers and patients share information at different times.

Unlike video calls that need everyone present, asynchronous platforms store patient data securely in the cloud for providers to review later—often within minutes. This works well for evidence-based care of common conditions.

Prescription-based models can use these asynchronous tools:

• Digital forms that collect detailed health histories
• Secure messaging for follow-up questions
• Photo uploads for visual checks (especially useful in dermatology)
• Automated patient screening and sorting

Providers can deliver quality care in about three minutes with asynchronous telehealth, compared to 20-plus minutes for standard video visits. This streamlined workflow helps prescription-based models serve more patients and increase revenue.

Coaching with the labs model

The coaching-with-labs model provides a better alternative to medication-focused telehealth approaches. Healthcare professionals and entrepreneurs can build eco-friendly businesses by combining advanced diagnostic testing with personalized health coaching. This creates informed care plans that don't depend on prescription medications.

Best-fit niches: longevity, gut health, sleep, stress, fertility prep

Several growing health niches benefit from detailed biomarker analysis, where the coaching with labs model shines. Longevity clinics use 100+ biomarkers through blood work to find why premature aging happens. These advanced labs help solve common chronic conditions that cause seven out of ten deaths in the US. These conditions make up 86% of healthcare costs.

This model works best for:

• Gut health optimization where microbiome and inflammation markers guide personalized protocols
• Sleep and stress management programs that use hormone panels and cortisol measurements
• Fertility preparation services that check hormonal health before conception attempts

Blue Ova's fertility coaching program shows how functional medicine testing helps analyze hormone function in body systems. Their experts study how hormones and organs work together. Longevity clinics like Healthspan blend testing with expert guidance through proven protocols that target aging biology.

Why does it avoid controlled-substance complexity

This model skips the regulatory burden of controlled substance prescribing. The approach focuses on:

1. Detailed lab interpretation and education
2. Personalized lifestyle modifications
3. Non-prescription supplement protocols
4. Follow-up testing to measure improvement

Healthcare providers don't need DEA registration or compliance with state-specific telemedicine prescribing rules for controlled medications. They can focus on preventative care and health optimization instead of disease management. Health-conscious consumers who want to invest in their well-being find this approach appealing.

Lab workflow: ordering, results, follow-ups

Telehealth-compatible lab testing connects virtual care with diagnostic quality through proven workflows. Keystone Lab reports that lab data influenced 60-70% of clinical decisions in 2023.

The lab process has four main phases:

Ordering: Patients fill out intake forms about their medical history and health goals. They get lab orders through secure portals or electronic health records. Thrive members provide their email and answer a short questionnaire before they schedule an in-person lab visit at partner labs across 50 states.

Collection: Patients can choose between at-home kits for certain tests or partner lab locations. Some services bring mobile phlebotomy to the patient.

Reporting: Both providers and patients see results on digital dashboards with visual data and educational context. Systems flag problems automatically so providers can act faster.

Follow-ups: Lab insights become part of personalized care plans during virtual consultations. Healthspan pairs testing with guidance from Ph.D.-level coaches who use proven protocols.

Margin and retention drivers

Several factors drive revenue and keep clients coming back. Membership fees create steady income streams. Thrive's yearly memberships include first-time testing, group webinars with registered dietitians and health coaches, and content libraries.

Regular lab testing serves both medical needs and business growth. Healthspan tests core members at the start and after 6 months. Advanced members get tests at the start, then at 3, 6, and 9 months. Retesting shows real improvement in biomarkers and proves the program's value.

Extra services boost revenue. Thrive members can get deeper health analysis and one-on-one time with physicians, registered dieticians, and health coaches. They can also use connected devices like continuous glucose monitors and sleep/fitness trackers.

This model keeps clients engaged by:

• Showing real results through before/after lab comparisons
• Creating lasting coaching relationships
• Teaching and supporting clients consistently
• Helping people become skilled at understanding their health data

Health-conscious consumers who want preventive care instead of reactive treatment choose this model. The blend of advanced diagnostics with personal support creates a strong alternative to traditional healthcare while maintaining good profits and client value over time.

Membership-based care model

Membership-based care models mark a fundamental change in healthcare delivery. These models replace per-visit billing with recurring subscription fees for complete primary care services. The new approach creates steady revenue streams. Healthcare providers can now focus on patient care instead of insurance paperwork.

Primary care lite + direct clinician access

These membership models work on a "primary care lite" principle. They offer most healthcare services under one monthly or annual fee. Traditional practices see 25+ patients daily. However, membership-based clinicians keep smaller patient panels - often fewer than 15 patients per day. The reduced numbers create room for tailored care and stronger relationships.

Direct provider access serves as the life-blood of these models. Members get special communication channels to their healthcare team through secure messaging, telehealth appointments, and faster in-person visits. This easy access removes barriers to care. Patients now seek help earlier when health issues emerge.

Two main membership approaches stand out:

• Direct Primary Care (DPC): An affordable option that charges $50-$150 monthly for complete primary care services. The fee includes unlimited visits and telehealth access
• Concierge Medicine: A premium service that costs $1500-$5000 yearly for boosted offerings. Members get 24/7 physician availability, detailed preventive screenings, and tailored wellness planning

Both models help build deeper patient-provider relationships. They move away from the volume-driven approach of traditional practices. Providers report higher job satisfaction and better clinical outcomes.

What members pay for: access, continuity, speed

Members invest in three core values: quick access, continuous care, and fast response times. They get same-day or next-day appointments and unlimited visits at no extra charge. Direct communication with clinicians happens through various channels.

Appointments last 60% longer than in traditional care settings. Doctors can now have thorough discussions and create complete health plans. Multiple health concerns get addressed in one visit instead of scheduling separate appointments.

The transparent pricing structure eliminates surprise bills. Patients can budget their healthcare expenses with confidence. Many practices boost value by offering wholesale medication prices, cheaper lab work, and bundled services.

Benefits go beyond clinical visits. Qliance's study showed that the preventive focus reduced hospital stays by 20-40%. Members save $1000-$2000 yearly by combining membership fees with high-deductible insurance plans.

Retention levers and staffing considerations

A successful membership practice needs strategic planning for patient retention and staffing. DPC models need 400-600 patients to stay viable. Concierge practices require 100-300 members.

Meeting these enrollment targets poses a challenge. Freedom Healthworks reports that good marketing helps new practices reach 80% enrollment within 6 months. Success comes from clear value communication, patient testimonials, and showing cost comparisons with traditional insurance-based care.

Telehealth integration plays a vital role in keeping members satisfied. Virtual care makes services more accessible and reinforces the promise of immediate access. Most practices now include unlimited telehealth visits, secure messaging, and digital health monitoring in their core benefits.

The staffing approach in membership models attracts and keeps providers. Lower patient volumes reduce burnout risk. Clinicians can practice more complete medicine. Project ECHO shows that telehealth consultation services help ease workload for rural providers.

These models open the door to different staffing approaches. Advanced practice clinicians, technicians, and other healthcare workers can work at their highest skill level with remote physician oversight. This flexibility helps address workforce shortages while maintaining quality care.

Membership-based telehealth offers an attractive option for clinicians. They gain more independence, better work-life balance, and meaningful patient relationships while running a sustainable healthcare business.

How Bask Health helps you build these models faster

Turning the model into a working patient flow

At Bask Health, we help you translate your model into repeatable workflows across the full patient lifecycle. That typically includes:

• patient intake and eligibility forms
• secure patient–provider messaging
• appointment and follow-up coordination
• documentation and operational handoffs

The goal is simple: you spend less time stitching systems together and more time delivering a consistent experience in your niche.

Reducing platform and workflow setup

Most teams lose momentum in the “setup spiral”—too many tool decisions, too many rebuilds, and too much time spent on infrastructure before they learn what the market actually wants. We reduce that friction by giving you configurable building blocks you can adapt to different telehealth business models, so you can launch, learn, and iterate faster.

A practical approach we often recommend is to start with a smaller footprint, validate operations, and then expand—rather than trying to go nationwide before the workflows are proven.

Where we’re most helpful: async-first flows and modular builds

Async care can be a growth advantage when it fits the niche, because it reduces scheduling bottlenecks and makes it easier to standardize assessments. We support async-first workflows with structured intake, store-and-forward information capture, triage logic, and documentation tools—so teams can handle variable demand without rebuilding their process every time.

Our modular approach lets you build only what your model needs now, then add complexity later as the niche proves itself. That’s how you move from “great idea” to “working telehealth model” without months of technical drag.

Asynchronous dermatology model

Asynchronous teledermatology stands out as one of the most available ways to enter virtual healthcare. Healthcare providers call this approach "store-and-forward" teledermatology because it lets patients and doctors interact at different times without meeting together. This difference creates operational advantages that make it an attractive option for telehealth entrepreneurs.

Why it the fastest to launch and easiest to standardize

Asynchronous dermatology leads other telehealth models in speed to market. The visual nature of skin conditions makes them perfect for photo-based assessment. Doctors don't need complex technology for immediate connections. The store-and-forward system removes scheduling issues that often make regular telehealth complicated.

This model naturally fits standardization through optimized workflows. Dermatology follows clear visual patterns, so doctors can turn clinical protocols into assessment steps. Your telehealth business plan can maintain quality even as it grows.

The benefits show up clearly. Research proves that asynchronous telehealth consultations take approximately one-third less time than traditional in-person visits. Doctors can review and answer dermatology cases within minutes instead of scheduling 15-30 minute video calls.

The clinical results remain impressive. The match between asynchronous teledermatology and traditional face-to-face consultations ranges from 79% to 98%. These numbers prove it's reliable enough to build your telehealth startup.

Intake-first workflow: photos + questionnaire + triage

The life-blood of asynchronous dermatology lies in its intake-first approach. Unlike other telehealth models that start with doctor contact, this system begins by gathering patient information:

• Image capture: Patients send high-resolution photographs of their skin conditions, including one image showing body location and close-ups with and without measurement scales
• Structured questionnaires: Detailed intake forms gather relevant history, symptoms, and previous treatments
• Automated quality checks: Advanced systems automatically filter image quality and ask for new submissions if needed
• Algorithmic triage: Systems direct cases to suitable providers based on complexity and urgency

This system works remarkably well. Most asynchronous dermatology consultations take between 2.7 and 5.5 hours. Some programs achieve average response times of just 3.5 days even in public health settings.

The system matches doctor expertise with case complexity effectively. The DermFlow platform scores case complexity automatically to send simple cases to primary care doctors and complex ones to specialists. This approach makes the best use of specialist time.

Repeat potential and quality control

Asynchronous dermatology creates natural ways to keep patients involved. Skin conditions need monitoring over time, and studies show that 87% of lesions change between the first photo and follow-up. These changes create natural points to continue care.

Quality control tools help ensure accurate diagnoses. Structured templates, standard image requirements, and clinical decision support tools keep care quality consistent. Some platforms use AI to spot suspicious features in images, which helps doctors make decisions.

The effect on healthcare use proves significant. Studies show that asynchronous teledermatology cuts down in-person visits by 18.5% to 58%. One study found dermatologists' workload dropped by 15-20%.

Patients love this approach. Studies show 89-93% of patients feel satisfied with asynchronous teledermatology services. Better yet, 76% of patients would rather use teledermatology than wait to see a doctor in person. These numbers show how strong this model's market position really is.

Hybrid model with in-person add-ons

Pure virtual care works well in many cases, but hybrid telehealth models that mix remote services with in-person care have become successful business approaches for specific niches. These models combine easy-to-access digital care with hands-on treatment that only physical presence can provide.

When hybrid beats pure telehealth

Hybrid care works better than virtual-only approaches in several situations. A patient's treatment trip can naturally combine in-person elements like procedures, labs, imaging, and immunizations with virtual components such as remote monitoring or telehealth specialist consultations.

This combined approach works best when:

• Physical procedures work alongside virtual consultations
• Diagnostic testing uses specialized equipment
• A hands-on evaluation helps with the first assessment
• Certain patient groups prefer mixed care options

In fact, hybrid care might help reduce racial and ethnic gaps in healthcare access. Research shows no major racial or ethnic differences in hybrid care use, though black and Hispanic patients were less likely to use telehealth-only services.

The core elements that make hybrid care work include clinical workflow integration, matching quality standards, and measuring patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Examples: Botox + telederm, hair restoration + telemed

Specific examples show how hybrid models create unique telehealth business opportunities. Teledermatology combined with in-office aesthetic procedures makes a great match. Virtual assessments help determine if patients qualify for treatments like Botox, dermal fillers, or chemical peels, followed by in-office visits just for the procedure.

Hair restoration offers another promising example by combining telemedicine consultations with in-person treatments. This approach uses telehealth for first evaluations, treatment planning, and follow-ups while keeping facility visits only for procedures that need special equipment.

As healthcare changes after the pandemic, these hybrid models remain vital parts of care delivery that focus on cost-effective and flexible solutions.

Partner requirements and ops complexity checklist

Setting up effective hybrid telehealth operations needs careful planning in several areas:

• Workflow plan: Create step-by-step guides to rebuild clinical workflow with telehealth services, including detailed steps for scheduling, consultations, diagnoses, treatments, and follow-ups
• Visit type protocols: Set clear rules to decide between telehealth and in-person visits and create smooth transitions between both types
• Scheduling procedures: Use tools with live updates and automatic reminders to make the best use of provider time and improve patient access
• Office configuration: Check that you have the right technology and privacy measures for both virtual and in-person consultations
• Quality standards: Set up ways to measure and check patient experience regularly to find areas for improvement

Most successful practices set aside specific days for virtual consultations or split their day between in-person visits in the morning and virtual sessions in the afternoon to work efficiently.

Telehealth entrepreneurs who develop their business plans find that hybrid models offer a balanced approach. These models combine the best parts of digital and traditional care while tackling operational challenges like resource use and staff training.

Telehealth entrepreneurs who develop their business plans find that hybrid models offer a balanced approach. These models combine the best parts of digital and traditional care while tackling operational challenges like resource use and staff training.

Niche example builds

Let's get into three successful telehealth niche examples that show how different business models work in real life.

MilaDerm: async acne clinic

MilaDerm shows how asynchronous dermatology works well to treat acne. This telehealth startup uses an image-based approach that breaks down geographic barriers and keeps clinical effectiveness high. Their model, like other similar platforms, has helped over 35,000 patients get expert advice through simple mobile apps.

The system puts user experience first. Patients upload photos of their skin issues and fill out standard questionnaires. They get expert recommendations without long wait times. This simplified process lets dermatologists spend more time creating treatment plans instead of doing paperwork, which cuts costs for patients.

PeakMen: TRT + weight loss crossover

PeakMen takes two services people just need - testosterone replacement therapy and weight management - and combines them into one telehealth business plan. Their crossover model combines virtual consultations with complete lab testing and medication management smoothly.

The platform makes the whole patient experience automatic. Digital health questionnaires connect patients to providers in minutes. After treatment approval, prescriptions go straight to approved pharmacies for shipping. Of course, this automation helps clinics offer GLP-1 consultations without hiring more staff, which improves operations.

Glow Longevity: membership + peptides

Glow Longevity shows how membership models work with advanced treatments like peptide therapy. This niche utilizes the growing interest in longevity medicine - searches for treatments like Sermorelin went up 233% between 2024 and 2025.

Members get access to preventative care, performance optimization, and healthy-aging services through custom programs. Their personalized peptide protocols might include:

• NAD+ to support mitochondrial function and energy metabolism
• Glutathione to improve detoxification and immune function
• Copper Tripeptide (GHK-Cu) to boost collagen production and skin renewal

Right now, many peptide treatments sit in regulatory gray areas. Successful businesses in this space use strict standard intake processes and evidence-based care plans. Monthly costs range from $150 to $5000 based on specific protocols and how they're given.

These examples show how telehealth entrepreneurs can adapt proven models to specific markets and create unique solutions for unmet healthcare needs.

Conclusion

Telehealth is no longer a single “virtual visit” concept. It’s a set of business models with very different workflows, operational needs, and growth paths. In this playbook, we break down five practical models—prescription-driven care, coaching with labs, membership-based access, asynchronous dermatology, and hybrid care—so you can see what each one is best for.

The right model shapes everything: how you deliver care, what your margins look like, and how quickly you can scale. Some models win on speed and standardization, while others win on continuity and long-term retention. The key is choosing a model that matches your clinical strengths and the niche you can execute consistently.

At Bask Health, we make that execution easier by helping you build the workflows behind each model—intake, eligibility, follow-ups, and async-first experiences—without getting stuck in months of technical setup. You’ll also see example builds like MilaDerm, PeakMen, and Glow Longevity to make the models feel concrete and copyable.

References

1. Keystone Lab, Inc. (2025, December 2). How telehealth-compatible lab testing improves patient care. Keystone Lab, Inc. https://keystonelab.com/uncategorized/telehealth-compatible-lab-testing/ Keystone Lab, Inc.
2. Deshpande, A., Khoja, S., Lorca, J., McKibbon, A., Rizo, C., Husereau, D., & Jadad, A. R. (2009). Asynchronous telehealth: A scoping review of analytic studies. Open Medicine, 3(2), e69–e91. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2765770/ pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov