Store-and-Forward Teledermatology Wound Checks Following Mohs Surgery: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Medical Informatics
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Store-and-forward telemedicine facilitates asynchronous clinical decision-making through electronic transmission of patient data.
• Postoperative wound assessment is crucial after Mohs surgery, often requiring in-person follow-up.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utilization, feasibility, cost savings, and patient satisfaction of store-and-forward telemedicine for postoperative wound checks following Mohs surgery.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of patients undergoing Mohs surgery were invited to participate in virtual postoperative wound checks.
• Participants submitted photographic documentation of their wound sites and completed anonymous satisfaction surveys.

Main Results:

• 110 patients enrolled (mean age 68). Participants reported average savings of $14.16, 78.6 miles, and 90 minutes in travel.
• 98% of respondents rated the quality of teledermatology care as "about the same" to "much better" than in-person visits.
• 90.1% of patients preferred teledermatology for future Mohs wound checks.

Conclusions:

• Store-and-forward telemedicine is a safe, effective, and efficient modality for managing postoperative wounds in patients who have undergone Mohs micrographic surgery.
• This technology enhances patient convenience and satisfaction while maintaining high-quality care.