Teledermatology – Comprehensive Specialist Care At Home
March 7, 2020
What is teledermatology?
Telemedicine is the practice of using telecommunication technologies to transfer medical information. Information can be shared through audio, visual and data communication. Teledermatology is a subset of telemedicine involving the dermatology specialty, that incorporates healthcare management such as during consultation, diagnoses, treatment and education via an encrypted digital platform.
What are some examples of teledermatology practices?
Teledermatology can be practiced in the following ways: Store and forward (SAF) and real time or interactive teledermatology. A simple example of SAF could be sending an email inquiry with an attached digital image of a lesion to receive advice on how to treat the skin condition. For real time teledermatology, it includes a live video conference between the medical provider and the patient. TWL Specialist Skin & Laser Centre developed a stringent teledermatology protocol incorporating both store and forward as well as real time interactive technology via an encrypted platform.
Dr. Teo Wan Lin is an accredited dermatologist and an expert on cosmeceutical skincare research and development. She is the author of “Skincare Bible – Dermatologist’s Tips for Cosmeceutical Skincare” which was published July 2019 by leading bookstores Barnes & Noble, Baker & Taylor and Apple Books and available in bookstores islandwide from January 2020. She heads up Dr.TWL Dermaceuticals, a specialist cosmeceutical skincare line with evidence-based active ingredients for anti-ageing and skin health. Its subsidiaries, the Pi- Cosmeceutical Custom Makeup Lab and the Conscious Mask Bar are part of the Conscious Concept Pharmacy launched in December featuring environmentally sustainable makeup and skincare materials. In this series “Dermatologist Talks” she shares her top tips on common skincare topics. In this article, she focuses on a growing trend – Teledermatology.
How is teledermatology relevant for me?
Teledermatology has many benefits. First, it is a convenient practice as it does not require both parties to be present at the same location. Some skin conditions require follow up appointments up to two times per week. This can takes up a lot of time. As such, teledermatology can be used to drive down the time and costs required in such follow-up visits.
Teledermatology can also be used to help patients receive a second opinion on their diagnosis to improve accuracy. In the unusual healthcare situation such as that of the COVID-19 Virus currently, the availability of remote consultations will greatly assist in public healthcare needs. Teledermatology enables you to consult with a dermatologist right in the comfort of your home.
How do I get started on teledermatology?
First, find an accredited dermatologist who offers teledermatology services. You may refer to the list of accredited dermatologists here http://www.dermatology.org.sg/
TWL Specialist Skin & Laser Centre offers accredited dermatology services through Teleconsultation, via virtual interactive real time technology with our dermatologist. Available as of 1st February 2020, all consultations are also integrated with online pharmacy dispensary services. Delivery to doorstep fulfilment of prescriptions available for local and international patients.
What should I expect from a teledermatology appointment?
1. Book an appointment via our online booking system or call 63550522. Key in a valid email address and phone number which will be the main form of correspondence. You will receive a confirmation of the appointment within 1 working day.
2. A Payment Link will be sent, to be completed for First Consultation/Subsequent Consultation Fees before commencement of consultation.
3. A Post-Payment Secure Process will be communicated to you via email for the subsequent steps which will involve the following:
Filling up of 3 single page forms, submission of required images at least 2 hours before scheduled consultation time with our dermatologist*, a fully encrypted video call saved on our secure patient data base will be conducted.
Subsequent fulfilment of prescription is done by our in-house pharmacy with full courier services to your home.