Teledermatology and underserved populations.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The dermatologic needs of many communities in the United States and worldwide are underserved. Telemedicine enables physicians and non-physician primary care providers to use modern telecommunications devices to gain access to specialist consultations promptly and with much less travel. The independently developed telemedicine programs described herein support 3 traditionally underserved populations: Pacific Islanders, migrant farmworkers, and prison inmates. OBSERVATIONS: In 3 independently designed telemedicine programs, dermatology emerged as the specialty most used by remote practitioners. Patients were presented for both diagnosis and treatment and in the setting of initial evaluation and as part of follow-up care. CONCLUSION: Teledermatology is a useful way to provide dermatologic support to remote or underserved communities.