The integration of virtual dermatology into patient care has evolved significantly, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Healthcare providers, compelled by circumstances, have embraced telemedicine to extend services remotely, offering patients convenient access to specialized care. Recent insights from a review published in Dermatologic Clinics highlight the growing utilization of telehealth, even in dermatological treatments.
Dr. Karan Lal, Director of Pediatric Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery at Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ, underscores the value of virtual consultations in improving accessibility for patients, especially underserved populations hindered by geographic or financial constraints. This sentiment is reinforced by research published in Dermatology Practical & Conceptual, advocating for teledermatology’s role in enhancing healthcare access.
A survey conducted by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) among nearly 600 dermatologists substantiates the enduring impact of telemedicine. Findings, reported in JAMA Dermatology, reveal a remarkable shift—while only 14% of dermatologists utilized telemedicine pre-pandemic, this figure skyrocketed to 97% during the pandemic, with 58% expressing intentions to continue virtual care post-pandemic.
The question remains: Can virtual consultations effectively diagnose and manage complex conditions like psoriasis, affecting over eight million Americans? Board-certified dermatologists Dr. Karan Lal and Dr. Debra Jaliman shed light on the nuanced considerations guiding virtual care decisions for psoriasis patients.
Virtual Treatment Suitability
Dr. Lal emphasizes that certain aspects of psoriasis care lend themselves well to virtual visits, particularly medication refills and routine follow-ups for established treatment plans. Similarly, Dr. Jaliman advocates for virtual check-ins to modify treatment strategies for long-term psoriasis patients.
Telemedicine enables assessment of critical metrics like the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) through clear photographs submitted by patients. This approach, endorsed by Dr. Jaliman, underscores the feasibility of monitoring psoriasis virtually under stable conditions.
In-Person Evaluation Necessities
Both experts caution that certain scenarios necessitate in-person evaluation, particularly for new patients or those experiencing acute symptoms or treatment failures. Dr. Lal stresses the importance of physical assessments when faced with new or concerning lesions, echoing Dr. Jaliman’s belief in the value of initial in-person consultations to ensure accurate diagnoses.
Optimizing Virtual Appointments
The success of virtual dermatology appointments hinges on effective patient preparation. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) advises patients to submit well-lit photographs of affected areas, devoid of makeup for facial conditions. Collaborative efforts, such as enlisting assistance for photographing challenging body sites, can enhance diagnostic accuracy.
Dr. Jaliman advocates for patients to compile comprehensive symptom histories and queries before virtual appointments, enhancing communication and treatment efficacy.
Managing Psoriasis
For psoriasis patients, consistent communication with dermatologists is paramount to effective management. Virtual care facilitates treatment plan reviews and routine check-ins, providing an additional layer of support for long-term care.
In conclusion, virtual dermatology holds significant promise in managing psoriasis, offering patients accessible and personalized care. However, prudent patient selection and collaborative engagement between providers and patients remain essential to optimize outcomes in virtual dermatological settings.
