Clinical Edge

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Are Patients Taking Isotretinoin Okay With E-visits?

JAMA Dermatol; 2016 Mar; Mori, Houston, et al

Most people taking isotretinoin for acne—as well as their caregivers—are interested in, comfortable with, and willing to pay for e-visits, according to a survey of 105 individuals.

The survey involved patients who were taking isotretinoin for at least 3 months. Participants included 62 adult patients, and 43 caregivers of minors. Among the results:

• About 7 in 10 respondents had health insurance.

• Most reported that office visits caused them to miss school or work.

• Among those who missed work, e-visits were estimated to save a median of 2 hours of work monthly.

• Caregivers reported e-visits would reduce missed school time by a median of 3 hours per month.

• Most respondents reported no concern about the safety of an e-visit.

• 61% of respondents said they were willing to pay $25 out-of-pocket for an e-visit. ~4 in 10 respondents said they were unwilling to pay for an e-visit.

Citation: Mori W, Houston N, Moreau J, et al. Personal burden of isotretinoin therapy and willingness to pay for electronic follow-up visits. JAMA Dermatol. 2016;152(3):338-340. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2015.4763.