Dr Nellie Konnikov on Expanding Dermatology Access Via Telehealth

Access to dermatology care is limited around the world, especially in remote areas, but the Veterans Affairs' teledermatology program aims to improve both access to and quality of dermatological care, said Nellie Konnikov, MD, professor and chief of dermatology at the Boston Department of Veterans Affairs.

Transcript (slightly modified]

How has teledermatology helped the VA extend access to specialty care?

It’s not a surprise that the access to dermatological care is limited, not only within [the] United States but practically all over the world. So teledermatology can assist us to improve the access and the quality of care, especially in underserved areas or remote areas.

What role does teledermatology play in the VA’s network of telehealth services?

Dermatology is one of the most important areas of telemedicine. Majority of teledermatology is a store and forward when images are taken [and] transmitted through the internet to reach our tele-reader or expert dermatologist for their opinion, and then the management or report [is] transmitted back to the primary care physicians.