Teledermatology in medical student, postgraduate trainee, and global dermatology education: A systematic review

JAAD Int. 2023 Jun:11:106-111. doi: 10.1016/j.jdin.2023.01.023. Epub 2023 Feb 19.

Abstract

Background: In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, medical students and residents in the U.S. and globally have gained more exposure to teledermatology, both for the purposes of clinical practice and education.

Objective: We conducted a systematic review to assess outcomes from teledermatology interventions for dermatology trainees in the U.S. and globally in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA).

Methods: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane CENTRAL for articles written in English and published database inception to November 20, 2022.

Results: In total, 15 studies met the inclusion criteria. Outcomes reported ranged broadly from resident-provider concordance rates, diagnostic accuracy in comparison to control groups, number of patients seen, and self-reported satisfaction and improvement. Generally, studies indicated high satisfaction rates and improvement in educational outcomes among medical students, residents, and other trainees in the global health setting.

Limitations: Because of the heterogeneity of study design and outcomes reported, meta-analysis could not be performed.

Conclusion: Teledermatology can be successfully deployed for clinical care and education domestically and in the global health setting.

Keywords: PRISMA, Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews; VR, virtual reality; global health; international dermatology education; teledermatology; virtual curriculum.