WHAT IS TELEDERMATOLOGY/ONLINE DERMATOLOGY CONSULTATIONS?
Online dermatology consults, also known as teledermatology or more broadly, Telemedicine; is the use of telecommunications technology to provide medically accurate care across a distance. Such provision of care involves the use of the internet or a Wi-Fi connection, SMS text messaging and satellites to allow the physician and patient to communicate and exchange medical information. This technology has actually been available for quite a few years now and in remote locations such as Alaska, has often proven to be an invaluable way for patients to obtain accurate subspecialty care when physical access to a provider has been difficult or not practical.During the Covid pandemic, online medical consultations again proved to be a valuable way for patients to be seen without risk of contact or infection. The technology used and especially the resolution of images across a telemedicine platform has continued to improve dramatically so that the accuracy of online consults, especially in a visual subspecialty such as dermatology is comparable to an in-office visit in the vast majority of cases.Online dermatology consultations involves the use of real-time video streaming including the transmission of images and video in combination with a patient's medical information directly communicated with a medical specialist who in turn will obtain a medical history, examine the areas in question and discuss potential diagnoses and medical management with the patient in real time. Any prescriptions needed can be transmitted to the patient's pharmacy of choice.If the medical specialist determines that a procedure such as a biopsy or surgical intervention is required then the provider will have access to and determine where the procedure can be done in consultation with the patient's location and availability. Teledermatology or online dermatology consultations can be useful in many ways with a much shorter waiting period than being seen in person and can be done through a variety of convenient electronic devices including smart phones, tablets, desktop or laptop computers with only a Wi-Fi connection needed and at great convenience to the patient.Triage, follow-up care and patient education can also be done through an online consultation.
Most insurance companies cover the cost of online consultations as they would any other medical consultation and the patient will be send a copy of the invoice that they in turn can send to their insurance companies for reimbursement. A copy of the consultation is also kept on file.
The entire consultation is HIPPA-compliant and completely confidential.Patients will need to provide consent for the online consultation and minors will need to have a parent or guardian present during the consultation.
Most insurance companies cover the cost of online consultations as they would any other medical consultation and the patient will be send a copy of the invoice that they in turn can send to their insurance companies for reimbursement. A copy of the consultation is also kept on file.
The entire consultation is HIPPA-compliant and completely confidential.Patients will need to provide consent for the online consultation and minors will need to have a parent or guardian present during the consultation.
Online Consultations
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