Demographic Profile of Patients Receiving Dermatological Care Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic

This study investigates the changes in the demographic profile of patients receiving dermatological care before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. International studies show mixed results regarding the impact of the pandemic on dermatology visits, with some countries like Thailand and China seeing no significant changes after an initial drop, while others like Italy and Cameroon experienced a persistent decrease in outpatient visits. In India, telemedicine was found to be effective in maintaining access to dermatological care. The study hypothesizes a decline in outpatient visits immediately following the pandemic outbreak, with a shift in patient demographics during the pandemic, including a decrease in older patients, patients of color, men, and those with chronic conditions. Understanding these changes can help inform future healthcare policies.