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ISSN 2063-5346
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EVALUATION OF EFFECTIVENESS AND FEASIBILITY OF REMOTE CONSULTATIONS AND TELE DERMATOLOGY SERVICES IN DIAGNOSING AND MANAGING VARIOUS SKIN CONDITIONS

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Dr. Syed Aqeel Akbar Shah Gillani, Umer Hameed Butt, Dr Tanveer Hussain, Rabia Qazi, Arbaz Bashir, Sughra Latif, Dr Fahmida Khatoon, Kashif Lodhi, Dr. Safaa Mohammed Hussein
» doi: 10.53555/ecb/2023.12.Si13.266

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Background: The background of the study highlights the growing need for accessible and efficient healthcare delivery, especially in the field of dermatology. Traditional in-person consultations often face challenges such as long waiting times, geographical barriers, and limited specialist availability. Aim: The aim of this study is to assess whether remote consultations and tele dermatology services offer a viable alternative for diagnosing and managing skin conditions. Methods: The study employed a mixed-methods approach involving both quantitative and qualitative data collection. A diverse sample of patients who had accessed remote dermatological consultations or tele dermatology services over the past two years was recruited. Participants were asked to provide consent and complete a structured questionnaire, which assessed their experience with the remote consultation process, including satisfaction with diagnosis and treatment outcomes. Additionally, a subset of participants was selected for semi-structured interviews to gain deeper insights into their perceptions and experiences. The study's methodology involves a comprehensive review of existing literature, a collection of case studies from various healthcare institutions, and a survey of both dermatologists and patients to gather insights into their experiences with remote consultations. The study also analyzes the accuracy of diagnoses made through remote means compared to traditional in-person consultations. Results: Results indicate a strong potential for remote consultations and tele dermatology services to effectively diagnose and manage a wide array of skin conditions. The study highlights that many common dermatological conditions can be accurately diagnosed through high-quality images and detailed patient history provided via remote platforms. Moreover, the convenience and reduced waiting times associated with remote consultations contribute to higher patient satisfaction. However, the study also acknowledges limitations in cases where tactile examination is crucial, highlighting the importance of a hybrid approach that combines remote consultations with periodic in-person assessments. Conclusion: In conclusion, the findings of this study underscore the significance of remote consultations and tele dermatology services in expanding access to dermatological care. These services have demonstrated their effectiveness in diagnosing and managing various skin conditions, improving patient convenience, and potentially reducing the burden on healthcare systems. The study recommends a balanced approach that leverages technology while recognizing the indispensable value of physical examinations.

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