Virtual lactation consultant (telehealth practice)

New parents who want fast, private help, including those in rural areas or with newborns who are hard to take out. Some may be reimbursed by insurance, depending on the plan.

A fee per video consultation, plus follow-up packages, a prenatal feeding class, or a returning-to-work pumping session. Group workshops can serve several parents at once.

• Clear coaching over video
• Knowledge of infant feeding and pumping
• Comfort with booking and video software
• Empathy and listening

• State rules on telehealth and licensing: check the rules in your state and in the state where each client lives
• Professional liability insurance that covers virtual services
• Privacy of client health information, so check whether HIPAA applies to your practice
• You can't physically check a baby, so know when to refer parents to a doctor or in-person help
• Check each insurer's requirements before promising reimbursement

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $600 to $4,000, depending on your setup and software. Check that your professional liability insurance covers virtual services before you begin seeing clients.

Check the telehealth and licensing rules in your state and in the state where each client lives. Also check each insurer's requirements before promising reimbursement, and whether HIPAA applies to your practice.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $600 to $4,000, depending on how many consultations you book. A minimum of about 6 hours a week is a typical starting point for this kind of practice.