Teledermatology in a capitated delivery system using distributed information architecture: design and development.

Objective: This report describes the design, development, and technical evaluation of a teledermatology system utilizing digital images and electronic forms captured through, stored on, and viewed through a common web server in an urban capitated delivery system.

Materials and methods: The authors designed a system whereby a primary care physician was able to seek a dermatologic consultation electronically, provide the specialist with digital images acquired according to a standardized protocol, and review the specialist response within 2 business days of the request. The settings were two primary care practices in eastern Massachusetts that were affiliated with a large integrated delivery system. Technical evaluation of the effectiveness of the system involved 18 patients. Main outcome measures included physician and patient satisfaction and comfort and efficiency of care delivery.

Results: In 15 cases, the consultant dermatologist was comfortable in providing definitive diagnosis and treatment recommendations. In 3 cases, additional information (laboratory studies or more history) was requested. There were no instances where the dermatologist felt that a face-to-face visit was necessary.

Conclusions: This novel approach shows promise for the delivery of specialist expertise via the internet. Cost-effectiveness studies may be necessary for more widespread implementation.