Dermatologist Perceptions of Teledermatology Implementation and Future Use After COVID-19
Jonathan Kennedy, Siobhan Arey, Zachary Hopkins, Trilokraj Tejasvi, Ramsay Farah, Aaron M. Secrest, Jules B. Lipoff
Abstract
Teledermatology is an effective method for delivering health care, with strong evidence supporting its use, yet barriers have stalled implementation, including lack of reimbursement, liability concerns, and licensing restrictions. 1,2 The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic crisis led to rapid adoption of telemedicine to continue care while minimizing inperson contact. 3 Historically, most teledermatology studies have focused on store-and-forward models, whereas during the COVID-19 pandemic, regulatory changes from the US Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services prompted an increase in liveinteractive video visits. These changes granted parity in reimbursements between video and in-person visits, removing eligibility and geographic restrictions. 4,5 We sought to assess dermatologists' perceptions of and experiences with teledermatology in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and these new changes.