Abstract
BackgroundDespite increasing practice of teledermatology in the U.S., teledermatology practice models and real-world challenges are rarely studied.MethodsThe primary objective was to examine teledermatology practice models and shared challenges among teledermatologists in California, focusing on practice operations, reimbursement considerations, barriers to sustainability, and incentives. We conducted in-depth interviews with teledermatologists that practiced store-and-forward or live-interactive teledermatology from January 1, 2007 through March 30, 2011 in California.ResultsSeventeen teledermatologists from academia, private practice, health maintenance organizations, and county settings participated in the study. Among them, 76% practiced store-and-forward only, 6% practiced live-interactive only, and 18% practiced both modalities. Only 29% received structured training in teledermatology. The average number of years practicing teledermatology was 4.29 years (SD±2.81). Approximately 47% of teledermatologists served at least one Federally Qualified Health Center. Over 75% of patients seen via teledermatology were at or below 200% federal poverty level and usually lived in rural regions without dermatologist access. Practice challenges were identified in the following areas. Teledermatologists faced delays in reimbursements and non-reimbursement of teledermatology services. The primary reason for operational inefficiency was poor image quality and/or inadequate history. Costly and inefficient software platforms and lack of communication with referring providers also presented barriers.ConclusionTeledermatology enables underserved populations to access specialty care. Improvements in reimbursement mechanisms, efficient technology platforms, communication with referring providers, and teledermatology training are necessary to support sustainable practices.
Highlights
Teledermatology is the practice of delivering dermatological care via communication technology [1,2,3,4]
The primary aim of this study is to examine teledermatology practice models and challenges in California focusing on its role in serving the Medicaid population
Demographic Characteristics of Teledermatologists and Patients Cared through Teledermatology
Summary
Teledermatology is the practice of delivering dermatological care via communication technology [1,2,3,4]. Despite increasing practice of teledermatology in the U.S, teledermatology practice models in the various settings are rarely studied. It is often difficult for dermatologists new to teledermatology to efficiently gather relevant information regarding best practice models. These new practitioners may not be aware of the potential challenges that could undermine a sustainable teledermatology practice. An investigation on best practice models in teledermatology and a candid discussion of challenges of practicing teledermatology will be valuable to dermatologists, primary care providers, and policy makers. Despite increasing practice of teledermatology in the U.S, teledermatology practice models and real-world challenges are rarely studied
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
