Implementation of a Teletriage System Improves Access to Dermatologic Care in an Underserved Clinic: A Retrospective Review

The retrospective review found that the use of a teletriage system, specifically the AccessDerm application, in an underserved clinic significantly improved access to dermatologic care for uninsured Latino immigrants. Over a period of 2.5 years, 60 consultations were submitted through the system, with dermatologists responding in an average of 1.4 days, which was notably quicker than the 13.4-day wait for an in-person appointment. The teletriage system changed the treatment plan in 95% of cases (57 out of 60) and eliminated the need for an in-person visit in 70% of cases (42 out of 60), resulting in an 18% increase in the availability of in-person appointments for those who needed them. The study concluded that teledermatology is an effective method to reduce wait times and improve the efficiency of care delivery for underserved populations.