Date of Award

2025

Degree Name

Healthcare Administration

College

College of Business

Type of Degree

M.S.

Document Type

Research Paper

First Advisor

Alberto Coustasse, Dr.PH. MD, MBA, MPH

Abstract

Introduction: Teledermatology, a subset of telemedicine, has gained prominence as a means to increase access to dermatologic care while reducing costs and improving patient satisfaction. The swift expansion of teledermatology during the COVID-19 pandemic was driven by the necessity to limit physical contact and adapt to public health restrictions. This technological shift aimed to address longstanding disparities in dermatology access, especially in rural and underserved populations, and to respond to the rising demand for dermatologic services amid provider shortages.

Purpose of the Study: The purpose of this study was to analyze the effects that teledermatology following the COVID-19 pandemic had on provider and patient satisfaction scores along with access, cost of care, and diagnostic accuracy results compared to in-person dermatology appointments.

Methodology: A systematic review was conducted using multiple academic databases, including PubMed, CINAHL, ProQuest, and others, to gather relevant articles published between 2015 and 2025. Keywords such as “teledermatology,” “quality of care,” “patient satisfaction,” and “access to care” guided the search. After initial screening, 39 peer-reviewed articles were included based on their relevance, methodological rigor, and focus on measures such as satisfaction, cost savings, and diagnostic accuracy. The collected data were validated by collaborative assessment employing the PRISMA framework to ensure systematic inclusion and bias reduction.

Results: Findings demonstrated that teledermatology effectively increased access to dermatologic care, especially in rural and underserved areas, with reported increases in dermatology visits and service utilization. Patient satisfaction scores were notably high and comparable to in-person visits, with some studies indicating slight preferences for in-person physical examinations due to perceived differences in examination quality. Cost analyses revealed significant savings per visit, often ranging from 147 to186, primarily due to reduced travel and wait times. Diagnostic accuracy remained comparable between teledermatology and traditional care, although physical examination limitations were acknowledged. The surge in teledermatology during the pandemic led to a substantial shift in practice patterns, with a dramatic increase in teleconsultations, driven by regulatory adjustments and expanded insurance coverage.

Discussion/Conclusion: Teledermatology has demonstrated significant potential to improve healthcare accessibility, satisfaction, and cost-efficiency in dermatology. Despite some limitations regarding physical examinations, the evidence supports its role as a complementary modality capable of addressing provider shortages and healthcare disparities. Widespread adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted its value, suggesting that teledermatology could serve as a sustainable, long-term component of dermatologic care delivery. Future research should focus on long-term outcomes, mental health impacts, and the integration of advanced diagnostic tools to enhance effectiveness further. Overall, teledermatology emerges as an adaptable, patient-centered solution aligned with contemporary healthcare priorities.

Subject(s)

Health services administration.

Health facilities -- Business management.

Dermatology.

Telecommunication in medicine.

COVID-19 (Disease)

Patient satisfaction.

Medical care -- Quality.

Diagnosis.

Health services accessibility.

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