The Implementation of Teledermatology in the Urgent Care Setting

Authors

• Mckenzie Clark, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Urgent Care Medicine

Advisor

Dr. Debra Munsell

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: Teledermatology has emerged as a valuable tool for dermatologists and is designed to improve access to dermatologic care by enabling timely specialist input. Its integration into remote specialty consultations in ambulatory care settings, such as Urgent Care and Emergency Medicine, has shown promise for enhancing diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.

Objective: This article review examines the current evidence on the use of teledermatology in urgent and emergency care settings, with a focus on its impact on patient outcomes, referral efficiency, logistical challenges, and improving access to specialty care.

Methods: A review of peer-reviewed literature published between 2014 and 2025 was conducted in databases PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Scopus.  Search terms included “teledermatology”, “urgent care dermatology,” “emergency dermatology”, and “AI-assisted dermatology”. Key findings were discussed, highlighting practical and clinical benefits, study limitations, and logistical considerations if implemented. Non-peer-reviewed studies done before 2014, and non-English written studies were excluded.

Findings: The key findings from the literature support that the use of teledermatology improves diagnostic consistency, reduces unnecessary referrals, and supports continuity of care for patients presenting with acute dermatologic concerns. Urgent care providers often have limited dermatology training, and teledermatology serves as an effective liaison between Urgent care and specialty care. However, gaps remain regarding the financial and logistical feasibility, equitable access for underserved communities, and reimbursement parity, making deployment strategies uncertain for healthcare administrators.

Conclusions: Teledermatology represents a promising strategy to enhance access to dermatologic expertise in UC settings. Sustainable implementation requires alignment with Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines, state telehealth legislation, and prioritization to increase equitable access. Additional research is needed to explore cost-effectiveness and scalability, which may facilitate broader adoption and maximize its impact on patient outcomes.

Recommended Citation

Clark M. The Implementation of Teledermatology in the Urgent Care Setting. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2026; 8(1).