Impact of standardized templates and skin cancer learning modules for teledermatology consultations

• Published in: International journal of dermatology 2019-12, Vol.58 (12), p.1423-1429
• Main Authors: Cumsky, Helen J. L., Maly, Connor J., Costello, Collin M., Buras, Matthew R., Ranieri, LeeAnn M., Grover, Michael L., Comfere, Nneka I., Nelson, Steven A., Pittelkow, Mark R., Mangold, Aaron R.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Aged; Clinical Competence - statistics & numerical data; Consultation; Dermatologists - education; Dermatologists - organization & administration; Dermatologists - statistics & numerical data; Dermatology - education; Dermatology - organization & administration; Dermatology - statistics & numerical data; Diagnostic systems; Discordance; Education, Medical, Continuing; Female; Humans; Learning; Male; Management; Middle Aged; Models, Educational; Modules; Oncology; Pilot Projects; Program Evaluation; Prospective Studies; Qualitative Research; Remote Consultation - organization & administration; Remote Consultation - statistics & numerical data; Skin cancer; Skin Neoplasms - diagnosis; Skin Neoplasms - epidemiology; Skin Neoplasms - therapy; Surveys and Questionnaires - statistics & numerical data; United States - epidemiology
• ISSN: 0011-9059; 1365-4632
• DOI: 10.1111/ijd.14437

Background Little research has been done in teledermatology to examine the effects of standardized templates and subject‐specific learning modules. Methods We performed a prospective study examining the effects of standardized templates and standardized cutaneous oncology learning modules on teledermatology referrals at Mayo Clinic. This data was then compared to previous teledermatology referrals before standardized templates were adopted. Results A total of 42 teledermatology consultations were performed during the 4‐month study period. The use of standardized templates resulted in an absolute reduction in face‐to‐face referrals. Teledermatology consultation increased the absolute diagnostic and management concordance by 26.2% (P = 0.02) and 33.3% (P < 0.01), respectively, and decreased the absolute diagnostic and management discordance by 19.1% (P = 0.03) and 31.0% (P < 0.01), respectively. The largest knowledge gaps were identified in cutaneous oncology. Educational intervention improved theoretical referral rates and confidence in diagnosis and management overall. Conclusion The implementation of standardized intake templates reduces the rate of face‐to‐face referrals. Teledermatology improves primary care‐based dermatological care and reduces theoretical referral rates.