Inova Teledermatology Program

When a patient at Inova Fairfax Hospital has dermatologic concerns during a hospital stay for another condition, Inova Teledermatology Program can provide a private and secure real-time video assessment and consult with a community dermatologist. This real-time collaboration or store-and-forward capability makes it possible for a hospitalist at Inova Fairfax Hospital to remotely connect with community dermatologists. The outcome is quick, efficient access to a dermatologist and proper treatment protocols to help improve patient care. The dermatology team is led by the Department of Medicine and staffed by hospitalists. How the Program Works When a patient presents with dermatologic symptoms: The hospitalist or emergency medicine physician reviews the patient's status and determines the need for evaluation The dermatoscope (or other technology) is taken to the patient's bedside The patient, EM physician and remote dermatologist begin a real-time consult. Alternatively, an examination camera captures images which are then forwarded to the dermatologist for review. The clinical staff consults with the dermatologist to expeditiously determine treatment, admission or transfer decisions Inova Teledermatology Benefits Patients Patient has faster access to a dermatology specialist and decreased treatment turnaround Often there is less need for follow-up Benefits to Healthcare Providers Convenient, real-time access to dermatologists Store-and-forward access to consults