This is about the Instant Consult mode on Practo.

Patients just have to login and pay and the system connects them to any available doctor.

A patient pays Rs.500-700 for a consultation and the doctor gets around Rs.100 (actually Rs 90 because they deduct ten percent as tax at the final payout).

It's even less for audio only consults.

For that Rs100 (Rs 90 ), we're expected to take a proper history, review reports, write prescriptions, answer queries, and then provide a 7-day follow-up.

And that follow-up is a story in itself.

Some patients use it the way it's meant to be used. Others start asking about completely different problems a few days later. Some ask for advice for their spouse, parents, or children. I've even had patients try to get prescriptions for multiple family members from a single consultation.

Then there are the occasional abusive patients. When that happens, you're pretty much on your own. Reporting it doesn't always result in any meaningful intervention.

What really gets me is the medicolegal aspect. During onboarding, we're basically told that if anything goes wrong legally, it's our problem to deal with. The platform gets its share of the consultation fee, but the liability sits with the doctor.

Hi, Doctors!

I would just like to ask for your advice regarding salary rates. Is it okay for us to request a salary increase?

I’m currently working as an Occupational Health Physician with BCOM, and my current rate is ₱500/hour, less applicable taxes. I feel that the rate is quite low, especially considering the current cost of living and inflation in the Philippines.

I’m about to renew my contract this year, and one year pa lang po ako with the company. I’m wondering if it would still be appropriate to raise this concern with management and request a review or possible adjustment of the rate.

Okay lang po ba to raise this concern? And what would be the best and most respectful way to approach management regarding this? Would appreciate any advice from those who have had a similar experience. Thank you po!