Work

Hybrid care potential of teledermatology: The importance of linking digital and physical practice and acceptance of online services: A cross‐sectional study

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Background and Aims: Telemedicine, with Teledermatology, has become a central component of modern medicine. Its importance, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, underlines its potential to optimize access for dermatological needs. The study aims to assess the potential of teledermatology, understand the importance of linking digital and physical practices, and analyze the adoption of online services based on participants' demographic and experiential factors. Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted among users of the telemedicine platform from July 2022 to March 2023. The platform ("OnlineDoctor") allows users to contact dermatologists for remote dermatological consultations. The survey included questions about the participants' dermatological concerns, their reasons for using teledermatology, their satisfaction with the recommendations and their willingness to continue using telemedicine in the future. Data was collected via the RedCap online platform. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses were carried out. Results: = 885) of participants indicated they would use teledermatology as their first choice if they had an upcoming skin condition. Age, gender, and satisfaction with previous consultations impacted the use of teledermatology as the first choice for future skin conditions. Conclusion: Teledermatology is characterized by various benefits, including reduced waiting times and improved accessibility to treatment. Nevertheless, the study underscores the importance of a hybrid care approach with direct interaction with the physician. Teledermatology can be transformative in meeting dermatologic needs, mainly when traditional face-to-face consultation is limited. A deep understanding of user preferences and widespread adoption of digital services can pave the way for the successful adoption of teledermatology platforms, improving healthcare accessibility and efficiency.

Source: Health Science Reports

DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.2241

Authors: Michael Hindelang, Linda Tizek, Christiane Harders, Leonie Sommer‐Eska

Institutions: Institut für Medizinische Informationsverarbeitung, Biometrie und Epidemiologie, Technical University of Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München

Language: English

Topic: Telemedicine and Telehealth Implementation

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,120