Consumer Preferences for Skin Cancer Screening Using Mobile Teledermoscopy: A Qualitative Study

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Digital Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Mobile teledermoscopy is advancing for early skin cancer detection and management.
• Its effectiveness is established, but patient attitudes toward its use remain unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore patient attitudes towards mobile teledermoscopy integration in skin cancer screening.
• To investigate patient perceptions of direct-to-consumer and doctor-to-doctor teledermoscopy pathways.

Main Methods:

• Data from a randomized controlled trial comparing mobile teledermoscopy-enhanced skin self-examinations (SSEs) with naked-eye SSE.
• Semi-structured interviews with 28 participants exploring skin screening behaviors and teledermoscopy pathways.
• Thematic analysis conducted by two independent researchers.

Main Results:

• 86% of participants had prior clinical skin exams, with only 18% seeing the same doctor.
• Five themes emerged: history of exams, doctor-patient relationship continuity, convenience, expedited review, and partner-assisted tasks.
• Mobile teledermoscopy was viewed positively for both direct-to-consumer and doctor-to-doctor interactions.

Conclusions:

• Mobile teledermoscopy is well-received for both direct-to-consumer and doctor-to-doctor applications in skin cancer screening.
• Continuity of care was not a significant factor for participants regarding clinical skin examinations.