Teledermatology: definition, uses and frequently asked questions

This article gives you an overview of what teledermatology is, the different types of technologies, and real-life scenarios of when to use it.

Author: Jennifer Highland, Content Manager of Miiskin | Reviewed by: Jon Friis, founder, and CEO of Miiskin
Last content update: March, 2024.

1. What is teledermatology?

Teledermatology is a subspecialty of telemedicine that uses telecommunications technology to diagnose and treat skin conditions and diseases. This technology allows dermatologists to evaluate, diagnose, and offer treatment to patients remotely by reviewing images, videos, and medical information sent through a secure, HIPAA-compliant telemedicine platform.

Teledermatology is rapidly gaining popularity since most skin diseases are visible, making it easy for dermatologists to expand their reach to patients in a cost-efficient way.

Besides, implementing teledermatology software is a great way to attract new patients to your dermatology clinic and boost your business, but it is even more important when you are setting up a new dermatology practice.

Definition of teledermatology

Teledermatology is defined as a subfield of telemedicine that leverages telecommunications to provide dermatological care remotely. Teledermatology enables the exchange of images and medical information via a secure platform for the diagnosis and treatment of skin problems.

2. Types of teledermatology

Store and forward teledermatology

Store-and-forward teledermatology allows dermatologists to receive photos and relevant medical history and symptoms from their patients at their convenience. They can review these submissions on their own schedule, typically within 24 hours, and then determine the appropriate treatment plan based on the provided information. This method enables patients to submit their care requests at a time that suits them and wait for their treatment plan from the comfort of their own home.

Live interactive teledermatology

In live-interactive teledermatology, dermatologists conduct real-time video consultations with their patients using phones or computers. This method enables patients to present their skin conditions, discuss symptoms, and pose questions as if they were physically present in the dermatologist’s office.

Similarly, the dermatologist can inquire about the patient’s condition, visually examine the affected skin through the camera, and provide immediate advice or treatment options. This approach offers a direct and immediate connection between dermatologists and their patients, facilitating dermatological care without the necessity for physical office visits.

Hybrid teledermatology

Hybrid teledermatology combines the elements of both store-and-forward and live-interactive teledermatology. This approach tailors the teledermatology service to the specific needs of the patients and healthcare providers, optimizing both convenience and care quality.

3. Teledermatology applications

For dermatologists, teledermatology offers a versatile toolset to extend and enhance the delivery of dermatology healthcare. Below you learn about the most common applications of teledermatology.

Virtual consultations

Dermatologists can use teledermatology to conduct virtual consultations with patients. This approach enables patients to seek professional advice on skin conditions without the need for an in-person visit, facilitating timely medical guidance and convenience for both parties.

Specialist referral

Teledermatology also serves as an enabler for primary care physicians to refer patients to dermatology specialists. By reviewing transmitted images and patient data, dermatologists can assess the need for specialized care and provide insights or recommendations, streamlining the referral process.

primary care doctor shares patient image with dermatologist

Online patient triage

Utilizing teledermatology for patient triage allows dermatologists to prioritize care based on the urgency of each case. By evaluating patient-submitted information and images, dermatologists can determine the severity of conditions and allocate immediate attention to more critical cases, optimizing the management of patient care.

Virtual prescription renewals

For patients needing prescription renewals, teledermatology provides a convenient way to assess the ongoing effectiveness of treatment and authorize medication refills without requiring a physical office visit. This can be particularly useful for managing chronic conditions or for patients with stable treatment plans.

Patient follow-up care

Teledermatology enables dermatologists to offer follow-up care remotely, allowing for the monitoring of treatment progress or recovery. Through periodic virtual check-ins, dermatologists can adjust treatment plans as necessary, provide continued support, and address any emerging concerns, ensuring comprehensive care continuity.

4. Frequently asked questions about teledermatology

How effective is teledermatology?

Teledermatology is very effective when dermatologists can view high-quality photos of a visible skin, hair, and nail problem. High-resolution photos work better than video in most cases because if a patient’s internet connection is poor, the dermatologist will not be able to see the skin problem clearly, which may affect the diagnosis and treatment outcome.

What is the process of teledermatology?

The teledermatology process unfolds in three steps. Initially, a patient uploads photos of their skin issue, accompanied by medical history and symptom details, to a secure platform. Utilizing the provided images and details, the dermatologist diagnoses the condition, offers a treatment plan, and outlines further follow-up steps, if needed. The patient then receives the treatment plan and purchases their medication at a local pharmacy.

What are the top teledermatology companies?

Some of the top teledermatology companies in the United States are Miiskin, SkyMD, Teladoc, DermatologistOnCall, Sesame Dermatology.

How long do telederm results take?

Most photo-consultations (90%) are reviewed by a dermatologist in less than 24 hours. However, the waiting time may be up to 2 business days, especially during weekdays or holidays.

How will I find out the result of this photographic procedure?

Once a dermatologist has reviewed the patient’s case, the patient will receive an email that includes their prescription, treatment plan and follow-up instructions.

What happens after teledermatology?

After a teledermatology consultation, patients will receive their treatment plan and will probably be asked to submit a follow-up request (usually within 3-6 months). This may be to ensure the treatment plan and the prescriptions are working properly.

What is the use of teledermatology?

Teledermatology is mainly used as a more convenient and cost-efficient alternative to face-to-face consultations. This allows patients to skip the waiting time at a local clinic and receive care for a skin problem in a timely manner.

What are the modalities of teledermatology?

Teledermatology operates through two primary modalities, store-and-forward and live-interactive teledermatology. Store-and-forward teledermatology involves patients sending digital images and medical information to a dermatologist, who reviews the case asynchronously. This modality is valued for its convenience and efficiency, allowing dermatologists to manage their time effectively.

The second modality, live-interactive teledermatology, enables real-time video consultations between dermatologists and patients. This approach facilitates immediate assessment and dialogue, closely mirroring the dynamics of an in-person visit. Both modalities enhance accessibility to dermatological care, allowing dermatologists to extend their reach and provide timely, effective services to a broader patient base.

What is an example of teledermatology?

An example of teledermatology involves a patient developing a skin reaction over night, it is visible and itchy and it causes discomfort and pain. The patient takes some photos, answers some questions and sends this information to a dermatologist. The dermatologist reviews the patient’s case, identifies the patient has an allergic reaction and sends medication to the patient to reduce their symptoms.

What is a teledermatology skin cancer diagnosis?

Teledermatology allows dermatologists to quickly examine the changes in a mole or mark in a patient’s skin and invite them for a prioritized face-to-face consultation if they think there may be a concern. Read the patient story of Megan Fry.

Miiskin, a teledermatology platform

The Miiskin platform offers an asynchronous telehealth solution for dermatologists, primary care physicians, and clinical research organizations.

This solution is valuable tool for private practices, health systems, and contract research organizations. It consists of two main components: the Miiskin app for patients and the Miiskin web portal for healthcare providers. Its primary purpose is to facilitate virtual care in various ways, such as conducting patient consultations, triaging patients, handling prescription renewal visits, and providing follow-up care for patients with chronic skin conditions.

The technology brings about three significant advantages:

Drastically reduces patient waiting times from potentially weeks to less than 48 hours.
Offers healthcare providers increased flexibility with their schedules.
Complements physical appointments, creating a more comprehensive and adaptable healthcare approach.

Article References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6231765/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459382/
https://web.archive.org/web/20070202162157/http://www.atmeda.org/icot/sigtelederm.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9445412/
https://www.accenture.com/us-en/insights/health/leaders-make-recent-digital-health-gains-last
https://patientengagementhit.com/news/long-wait-times-in-dermatology-harm-patient-experience-safety
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pde.14479
https://www.jmir.org/2018/4/e135/
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