Abstract
Images on the homepages of private practice dermatology websites often do not reflect the racial diversity of the metropolitan area in which each practice is located. A Google Maps scraper (Apify) was used to identify websites for private practices in 27 United States metropolitan areas selected from the 2020 U.S. Census list of 100 largest areas where non-white individuals makeup more than 50% of the population. Homepages from the top ten websites listed by the search engine were analyzed for images, use of non-English language, and mention of "Skin of Color" or "Ethnic Skin." One hundred seventeen websites were included. Two mentioned "Skin of Color" or "Ethnic Skin"; seven mentioned a non-English language. A significantly lower percentage of non-white-presenting patients (p < 0.001) and providers (p < 0.001) were pictured on the selected dermatology websites than reported in the Census. These findings suggest that the images on the homepages of private practice dermatology websites were not reflective of the racial diversity of the metropolitan area in which each practice is located. Private practice dermatologists should be mindful of how their services are represented online, as it may dissuade potential minoritized patients from seeking dermatologic care.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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.
