Australian teledermatology: the patient, the doctor and their government

Telemedicine is an emerging technology within Australia. We review the historical development of telemedicine and discuss the clinical and non-clinical issues surrounding its practice in this country. Teledermatology is one application of telemedicine. We discuss the potential impact of teledermatology on patients, doctors and third parties such as government. So far, teledermatology has received little attention from Australian dermatologists. By contrast, the Government and other organizations are showing keen interest in establishing infrastructure within this country. We believe it is time for dermatologists to become more involved in the practice and politics of telemedicine within Australia.