Addressing dermatologic concerns and teledermatology in undomiciled and sheltered populations

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Dermatology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Homelessness presents significant public health challenges, with dermatologic diseases being the most common health concern.
• There is an insufficient supply of dermatologists, leading to healthcare access disparities for the homeless population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review dermatologic conditions in homeless individuals.
• To identify barriers to dermatologic care for this population.
• To explore teledermatology as a solution to improve care access.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature review was conducted.
• Studies on homeless dermatologic issues and teledermatology efficacy were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Homeless individuals suffer from diverse skin conditions, including common issues and severe problems like cellulitis and skin cancer.
• Teledermatology improves clinical outcomes and accessibility, particularly in urban areas.
• Challenges like the digital divide may worsen existing disparities.

Conclusions:

• Addressing dermatologic needs requires a multifaceted approach.
• Teledermatology offers a viable solution but requires efforts to ensure inclusivity.
• Integrating teledermatology with supportive services is crucial for comprehensive care.