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Clearly, there is a need for people to see dermatologists. Unfortunately, the average wait time to see a dermatologist is now two-and-a-half months (Merritt Hawkins, 2014).
Seeing a primary care physician or nurse for skin issues is not the same, either. Studies show that primary care physicians not only take longer to diagnose conditions of the skin, hair, and nails than dermatologists do (Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1999), but also misdiagnose more often than their counterparts who are trained in these areas (Journal of General Internal Medicine, 2006).
Thankfully, there is Dermatologist on Call, a 24/7 service available online. For just $59, you can get to consult a board-certified dermatologist. (And now through May 1, 2015, you can use coupon code FUTUREDERM10 to receive the service for just $49!)
More complicated diagnoses will require you to take photos of your skin, upload, and submit. The vast majority will receive a response within 11 hours, but you are guaranteed a response within three days. Best of all, you will receive 30 days of virtual access (primarily email) with a derm.
What Conditions Can Dermatologist on Call Dermatologists Treat?
The Dermatologist On Call dermatologists are trained to treat over 3,000 conditions of the hair, skin, and nails, but these are the most common conditions they treat:
Is It Easy to Use?
The Dermatologist On Call website is quite simple and easy-to-use. Once you fill out the registration (similar to the paperwork in a waiting room), you will be prompted to upload photos and a written description of your condition. You may also ask questions and provide comments.
And that’s it! You will receive a response promptly — most persons receive a diagnosis and treatment plan within 11 hours, but you are guaranteed a response within three business days. Aside from weekends and holidays, you should not be waiting longer than 72 hours.
Once you receive your diagnosis and treatment plan — including prescriptions you can directly take to your nearest pharmacy — you will be able to communicate with a dermatologist via the Dermatologist On Call website for up to 30 days, including the date of your appointment.
Who Can Use It?
Currently, residents of the following states can use Dermatologist On Call:
- California
- Colorado
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Michigan
- Missouri
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- Utah
- Wisconsin
- West Virginia
How Much Does it Cost?
Dermatologist On Call is just $59, and includes a diagnosis, treatment plan, and access to a board-certified dermatologist for up to 30 days. You may not use health insurance until January 1. On that date,Dermatologist On Call will accept Highmark insurance in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Delaware. Contact Highmark for more details on your particular plan and coverage rates/co-pays.
However, you can use Health Spending Accounts (HSA), Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for care.
(And now through May 1, 2015, you can use coupon code FUTUREDERM10 to receive the service for just $49!)
Bottom Line
It’s hard to beat the convenience and quality of the Dermatologist On Call system. For just $59, you will receive a treatment plan and diagnosis catered towards your condition within 3 days, and will have access to a board-certified dermatologist for up to 30 days.
What are your thoughts on teledermatology or the Dermatologist On Call service? Do you have questions? Reach out in Comments below!
To learn more about the Dermatology on Call teledermatology service or to get started with an appointment today, visit DermatologistOnCall.com.