Cost Analysis of a Store and Forward Teledermatology Consult System in Philadelphia.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Store and forward SAF teledermatology TD has the potential to increase access to timely high quality care for underserved populations However the cost effectiveness of TD for underserved populations is uncertain OBJECTIVE This study evaluates the potential cost savings associated with a SAF TD program implemented for an underserved population in the city health clinics of urban Philadelphia METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of SAF TD consultations for 700 outpatients managed in 12 Philadelphia primary care clinics Primary care providers PCPs were asked to specify a treatment plan as well as the type of care for the patient in the absence of the TD service Analysis compared cost of each patient case using the TD consult model versus conventional care RESULTS Twenty seven percent 189 700 of in person dermatology clinic visits and 3 29 23 700 of emergency room ER visits were avoided using TD Compared to conventional care mean expected cost savings were 10 00 52 65 per TD consult In sensitivity analyses these estimated savings remained positive across a range of parameters LIMITATIONS The cost analysis relies on several assumptions regarding the cost of care and indirect costs were not included CONCLUSION Teledermatology can be a cost saving model while increasing access to dermatologic care