Using Implementation Science to Understand Teledermatology Implementation Early in the COVID-19 Pandemic:...

Area of Science:

• Implementation Science
• Dermatology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Implementation science aids integrating evidence-based practices in dermatology.
• COVID-19 accelerated global teledermatology adoption.
• Limited understanding exists regarding teledermatology's implementation process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand teledermatology implementation during COVID-19 using implementation science tools.
• To assess the acceptability and feasibility of teledermatology.
• To evaluate organizational readiness for teledermatology implementation.

Main Methods:

• Anonymous web-based survey distributed to Association of Professors of Dermatology members.
• Survey focused on teledermatology acceptability, feasibility, appropriateness, and organizational readiness.
• Incorporated subscales from the Organizational Readiness to Change Assessment.

Main Results:

• 35 dermatologists responded, all having implemented or scaled up teledermatology.
• High acceptability and feasibility reported for synchronous audio/video visits with stored photos.
• Adequate training, financial resources, and facilities were generally available, but staffing support was lacking for 57% of respondents.
• Synchronous audio/video with stored photos was the most accepted modality (66%).

Conclusions:

• This study demonstrates the application of implementation science in dermatology for understanding technology adoption.
• Findings characterize the acceptability and feasibility of various teledermatology modalities.
• Insights may guide dermatology practices and health systems in supporting successful teledermatology integration post-pandemic.