Improving Teledermatology Utilization in an Alaskan Health Care System

Abstract

The consistent demand for dermatology services, within an Alaskan health care network, warrants an organized, collaborative approach to acquiring a higher capacity of teledermatology consultations. The lack of uniformity among providers for using telemedicine technology in dermatology can hinder cost-saving care. Understanding the obstacles and utilization practices surrounding teledermatology adoption is a crucial objective for a project conducted in an integrated health care system. Devising a protocol with supporting education may reinforce expectations for primary care providers and community health aides and practitioners to be consistent with the utilization of dermatology consultations. A Teledermatology Utilization Project was conducted in an Alaska urban facility to affect change throughout an integrated system. Results indicated a significant increase in teledermatology cases since implementing a protocol and supportive education.