How do patients feel about teledermatology? Do you notice any differences regarding patients’ gender and age?
Dr. Wong: I’m going to specifically speak about “store-and-forward” teledermatology, which is the predominant mode of teledermatology being used today. Store-and-forward teledermatology is an asynchronous mode where pictures of the skin problem and medical history are sent to the dermatologist. In general, patients love teledermatology. It is convenient; they don’t have to take time off from their busy schedules. They don’t have to wait for the next available appointment in my clinic. They can get answers and are placed on treatment that same day. In our practice, there is an opportunity for rapid, secure communication exchange with the dermatologist during the consultation as well. Of course, there are skeptics who wonder whether dermatologists can really make an accurate diagnosis with a picture. But once patients experience the service, they are typically very satisfied with what our dermatologists can do and with the quality of care. Anecdotally, we’re seeing a nearly equal distribution of male and female consumers seeking care through teledermatology. Individuals in their 30s comprise the largest age segment, but we see patients from all age groups, even pediatric cases sent by parents.
What do you say to physicians who are concerned that teledermatology will eventually replace in-person visits and erode the doctor-patient relationship?
Dr. Wong: Teledermatology will never completely replace in-person visits. But it will become an important component of our practices. Teledermatology can actually improve the doctor-patient relationship because it allows for increased connectivity between doctor and patient. It is important for dermatologists to define how teledermatology enhances our existing practices by improving the quality of care and actually strengthening our relationship with our patients.
What advice do you have for dermatologists who are considering implementing teledermatology in their practice?
Dr. Wong: Speak with other dermatologists who have had experience with providing teledermatology services in their practices. Learn from their best practices. In addition to adopting a new technology, think through how it incorporates into your clinic operations. And pay attention to regulatory and legal compliance in an environment where there is constant change.
What are your predictions for the future of teledermatology?
Dr. Wong: The future of teledermatology is exciting. It is now an important tool to provide even better care to our patients. The technology for high-quality photography from mobile devices has rapidly advanced, and in most cases, when done properly, the resulting images are as good as – or better than – what you can see with the unaided human eye in an exam room. Because of the way our field has thoughtfully implemented teledermatology alongside traditional dermatology, teledermatology will very soon become a standard of care. The term “teledermatology” will no longer be used because it will simply be a standard part of dermatology practice.
For more information and contacts, please visit DirectDermatology.com.
Dr. Benabio is a partner physician in the department of dermatology of the Southern California Permanente Group in San Diego, and a volunteer clinical assistant professor at the University of California, San Diego. Dr. Benabio is @dermdoc on Twitter.