Virtual Access to Quality Dermatology Care: Challenges and Promises

Abstract

Teledermatology is the treatment of skin disease via the electronic transfer of medical information to a provider in a distant location. There are two primary forms of teledermatology, namely, store-and-forward and live/real-time interactive, which are both discussed in this article. During the COVID-19 pandemic, teledermatology has emerged as a powerful tool for inpatient and outpatient care of dermatology patients. This article provides updates on the best approach to optimize the utilization of teledermatology and discusses its benefits, disadvantages, and financial and ethical challenges in the post-COVID-19 era.