What's Happening?
Dr. Sidrah Nisar, a veterinarian, significantly increased her income by transitioning from a full-time position to freelance work. Initially earning $125,000 annually after graduating from veterinary school in 2019, Nisar switched to contract work as a relief
vet in 2023. She utilized an app called Roo, which connects veterinarians with clinics needing temporary coverage. This change allowed her to earn $366,000 in 2024 from shifts through Roo, supplemented by $18,000 as a brand ambassador for the app and an additional $2,000 from other vet shifts, totaling $386,000 for the year. Nisar now works 50 to 60 hours weekly, compared to her previous 40 to 50 hours, but enjoys the flexibility and higher hourly rates of freelance work.
Why It's Important?
Dr. Nisar's experience highlights a growing trend in the veterinary field where professionals are opting for freelance work to increase their earnings and gain more control over their schedules. This shift reflects broader changes in the labor market, where gig economy platforms are enabling professionals to leverage their skills more lucratively. For the veterinary industry, this could mean a shift in how clinics manage staffing, potentially leading to more reliance on temporary workers. While this model offers financial benefits and flexibility for veterinarians, it may also pose challenges for clinics in maintaining consistent staffing and care quality.
What's Next?
As more veterinarians consider freelance work, platforms like Roo may see increased demand, potentially leading to further innovations in how veterinary services are delivered. Clinics might need to adapt by offering more competitive pay or benefits to retain full-time staff. Additionally, the trend could influence veterinary education and career counseling, with a greater emphasis on preparing graduates for diverse career paths, including freelance opportunities.
