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Teledermatology Program Improves Dermatologic Care

The Bureau of Prisons improves access to care while reducing costs.

Teledermatology Program

(BOP) - For many years, the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) has envisioned teledermatology as a viable alternative to traditional, office-based dermatologic consultations. In 2012, a new position was created in the Health Services Division, the BOP National Dermatology Consultant, which initiated the development of the BOP Teledermatology Program. BOP clinical providers are trained in how to photograph patients and submit a consultation request. The consultation request is stored within the BOP's Electronic Medical Records system.

While there are certainly economic benefits in not having to physically transport inmates securely to an outside hospital, there also significant intangible benefits as well. Some of the overall benefits of the program are:

  • Reduced consultation costs: Per consultation, the BOP averages savings of $895 (plus transportation costs). With 501 consultations completed in 2013, the program translates to an average savings of $448,395. As the BOP Teledermatology Program expands, further savings will be realized.
  • Pharmacy medication utilization: Leveraging in-house dermatologic expertise, the National Dermatology Consultant and BOP pharmacists can identify the most efficacious medications and inexpensive alternatives. In a single case, switching from a gel to a cream can save $180,000 per year without compromising efficacy.
  • Decreasing referral treatment and wait times: Teledermatology consultation turn-around times are within 1-2 weeks. The average wait time for civilian dermatology consultation averages 30-90 days and can be longer. In-house teledermatology consultations decrease institutional administrative costs and time and ensure the inmate's condition can be evaluated sooner.
  • Improved access to care: Obtaining access to civilian dermatologic services can be difficult, particularly for those institutions in rural areas and without proximity to a dermatology practice. The National Dermatology Consultant is available to providers across the entire BOP.
  • Providing continuity: Continuity of care is enhanced with follow-up teledermatology consultations. Rather than seeing another dermatologist or missing appointments, follow-up with the National Dermatology Consultant allows for more uniform care.

With over 50 institutions utilizing the BOP Teledermatology Program, teledermatology has proven to be a demonstrated success in connecting institutions to specialty dermatologic care. The BOP Teledermatology Program has and will continue to improve the BOP's dermatologic care.