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Investigating Learning Effects Through the Implementation of Teledermatology Consultations Among General
Andreas Polanc1, Inka Roesel1,2, Elke Feil1
1Institute for General Practice and Interprofessional Care, University Hospital Tübingen, Osianderstraße 5, Tübingen, 72076, Germany, 49 70712985285.
Teledermatology consultations (TCs) effectively enhance general practitioners' (GPs) diagnostic skills and confidence in managing skin conditions through on-the-job learning. This telemedicine approach improves dermatology care in primary settings, especially for those starting with lower assessment scores.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Medical Education
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Rising prevalence of skin diseases presents challenges for primary care.
- General practitioners (GPs) are the first point of contact for dermatological issues.
- Teledermatology services support primary care physicians in managing skin conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate learning effects and skill gains among GPs using teledermatology consultations (TCs) in routine practice.
- To assess the impact of TCs on GPs' diagnostic and treatment management capabilities.
- To determine the effectiveness of telemedicine in dermatology continuing medical education.
Main Methods:
- Mixed methods study within a cluster-randomized controlled trial (TeleDerm).
- Surveys and semi-guided interviews with GPs using telemedicine.
- Development and application of a TC assessment tool (TC-AT) for data and image quality evaluation.
- Analysis triangulating qualitative content, survey data, and a growth curve model of TC-AT scores.
Main Results:
- 487 TCs from 33 practices analyzed; 46 GPs completed surveys.
- 67.4% of GPs found TCs helpful for diagnosis and treatment; 54.3% reported increased confidence.
- TCs were perceived as learning opportunities; mean TC-AT score was 7.4.
- Growth curve modeling showed significant quality improvements over time, particularly for practices with lower initial TC-AT scores.
Conclusions:
- TCs are an effective "learning on the job" educational method for GPs in daily practice.
- Telemedicine is an implementable and effective tool for dermatology continuing medical education.
- Training GPs and medical students in TCs can prepare them for future technological demands in primary care.
