The SAF method is most commonly used in teledermatology: It involves sending (forwarding) digital images associated with (anonymous) medical information to the data storage unit of a consulted specialist.
Specialist referral is a major area of application in teledermatology A general practitioner (or other medical professional) that sees the individual consults a specialist/ specialised centre via telecommunication to get a second opinion.
Crural ulcers are a common skin condition that needs follow up visits up to twice a week demanding significant time commitments by the individuals in addition to causing a financial burden on the health care system.
[8] Psoriasis is experienced by 3.2% of adults in the United States, and emerging research on teledermatology treatment of this condition suggests increased access to specialty care with positive patient satisfaction, outcomes, and cost savings.
Numerous universities offer online courses, computer-based training and Web applications in this field principally aimed at medical students.
These can be then assessed on a computer screen similar to conventional microscopy, allowing the pathologist to maneuver around the image and view every part of the slide at any magnification.
To facilitate access to medical advice and enable individuals to play a more active role in managing their own health status, mobile teledermatology seems to be especially suited for patient filtering or triage.
[15] However, currently available studies show a high rate of missed skin cancers including melanoma, and there is not enough robust data to recommend this method of diagnosis.
[18] The Department of Health encourages the use of digital technology in key areas to support delivery of the quality, innovation, productivity, and prevention (QIPP).
This includes the introduction of digital or online services to deliver greater convenience for patients and to free up face-to-face clinical time for individuals who really need it.
[19] Brazil has had a high influx of white-skinned European immigrants from Portugal, Spain, Italy, Austria, Germany, Poland, Russia, etc., for many centuries.
They assist with combatting the high skin cancer rates and allows rural patients to access specialist advice without having to travel.
Research has been done into the economic impact of funding teledermoscopy in the Australian setting, finding that it would cost around $2 for every day that diagnosis or treatment was expedited.
[23] Australian dermatologists have been reported as reflecting on teledermoscopy by saying "that it is valuable, [and] advanced dermatology service" but given the option "they would prefer face-to-face consultation with patients where possible to allow for a full body examination".