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- Title
The Teledermatology Experience: Cost Savings and Image Quality Control.
- Authors
Wallace, Matthew M.; Hackstadt, Amber J.; Zhao, Zijun; Patrinely, James R.; Zic, John; Ellis, Darrel; Paul, Lynn; Sultan, Miliyard; Danford, Brandon; Hanlon, Allison M.
- Abstract
Introduction:Teledermatology adoption continues to increase, in part, spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study analyzes the utility and cost savings of a store-and-forward teledermatology consultative system within the Veterans Health Administration (VA). Methods:Retrospective cohort of 4,493 patients across 14 remote sites in Tennessee and Kentucky from May 2017 through August 2019. The study measured the agreement between the teledermatology diagnoses and follow-up face-to-face clinic evaluations as well as the cost effectiveness of the teledermatology program over the study period. Results:Fifty-four percent of patients were recommended for face-to-face appointment for biopsy or further evaluation. Most patients, 80.5% received their face-to-face care by a VA dermatologist. There was a high level of concordance between teledermatologist and clinic dermatologist for pre-malignant and malignant cutaneous conditions. Veterans were seen faster at a VA clinic compared with a community dermatology site. Image quality improved as photographers incorporated teledermatologist feedback. From a cost perspective, teledermatology saved the VA system $1,076,000 in community care costs. Discussion:Teledermatology is a useful diagnostic tool within the VA system providing Veteran care at a cost savings.
- Subjects
KENTUCKY; TENNESSEE; QUALITY control; UNITED States. Veterans Health Administration; UNITED States. Dept. of Veterans Affairs; VETERANS' health; MEDICAL care costs; COST effectiveness; COVID-19 pandemic
- Publication
Telemedicine & e-Health, 2024, Vol 30, Issue 5, p1411
- ISSN
1530-5627
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1089/tmj.2022.0528