All About Teledermatology
Teledermatology is a subspecialty of dermatology. It is one of the most popular applications of e-health and telemedicine. So, let’s look at the benefits of this route versus the traditional office visits.
What is Teledermatology
This term was actually coined in 1995 by Perednia and Brown. Since then it has continued to grow in popularity. This field involves transferring medical information through audio, visual and data communication. That sounds complicated but in layman terms, they use technology to diagnose and treat medical conditions. It can even be used for education purposes.
Modes of Data Transmission
There are two main concepts that make up the practice of teledermatology. These are store and forward, or SAF, and real time or interactive teledermatology.
- SAF- Often the first choice, this method involves sending digital images with medical information to a data storage device of a specialist. This can be done in the form of email or through an app, like DermUtopia.
- Real Time or Interactive- This is normally done through a live video conference. This allows the provider and the patient to interact in real time
The primary advantages of SAF is that it doesn’t require both parties to be present at the same time. There is also no need for expensive equipment. However, with real time or interactive teledermatology, both parties are present and expensive technology is used. Remote surgery is performed this way.
Teledermatology for Health Care Management
With the rise of mobile apps designed for this purpose, it is easy for a patient to request a diagnosis and treatment through teledermatology. While it is not as accurate as an in-office exam, this method works well to guide individuals to the correct provider.
Teledermatology also allows the medical professional to consult a specialist in order to give the patient a correct diagnosis, provide helpful information for treatment or suggest other necessary procedures.
Furthermore, this technology can be used for treating patients with chronic illness remotely. This allows the patient to stay in the comfort of their own home while still receiving the best care. This is also a very useful tool for immunocompromised individuals.
As we discussed earlier, a huge benefit of e-health is in the field of medical education. Many universities offer online courses, web applications and computer-based training that is specifically designed for medical students. There are even training courses that students can take for specialty training. This include the dermoscopy field.
Special Interest Domains for Telehealth
There are several areas of special interest within the e-health domain. Let’s look at some.
- Teledermoscopy- a specialist receives a digital dermoscopic lesion image through electronic transmission and then examines them. This is useful in detecting malignant skin lesions or melanoma.
- Teledermatopathology- This involves transmitting images with the help of a robotic microscope. Conditions such as basal cell carcinoma can be diagnosed this way.
- Mobile Teledermatology- This occurs when one party used mobile equipment, such as a smartphone or tablet. This benefits patients and providers as it allows for flexibility and convenience. This method is also used for follow-up appointments.
Teledermatology at DermUtopia
If you are looking for an easy, time saving way to get a diagnosis from a dermatologist, please consider teledermatology. It really is as easy as downloading an app and snapping a few photos. If you have other questions, contact DermUtopia today.