Knowledge, attitudes, and practices on teledermatology among dermatologists in the Philippines

Janine Bianca M Acoba; Rowena F Genuino; Krisinda Clare C Dim‑jamora; Maria Jasmin J Jamora; Antonio C Sison

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Knowledge, attitudes, and practices on teledermatology among dermatologists in the Philippines

Author: Janine Bianca M. Acoba ¹ ; Rowena F. Genuino ^{2
,

3
,

4} ; Krisinda Clare C. Dim‑Jamora ^{1
,

2
,

5} ; Maria Jasmin J. Jamora ^{1
,

2
,

6} ; Antonio C. Sison ¹
Author Information

1. Skin and Cancer Foundation, Inc.
2. Department of Dermatology, Makati Medical Center, Makati City
3. Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines
4. Department of Internal Medicine, Manila Doctors Hospital, Manila
5. Department of Medicine, The Medical City Ortigas, Pasig City
6. Department of Dermatology, Quirino Memorial Medical Center, Quezon City, Philippines
Publication Type:Journal Article
Keywords: Practice; KAP; Teledermatology
MeSH: Knowledge; Attitude; Telemedicine
From: Journal of the Philippine Dermatological Society 2023;32(2):83-89
CountryPhilippines
Language:English
Abstract: Background:Teledermatology has been widely used during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic to overcome barriers in access to care. The objective of this study was to assess the current knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding teledermatology among dermatologists in the Philippines.
Materials and Methods:This was a cross-sectional and analytical study conducted from January 2022 to April 2022, among Filipino dermatologists using a self-administered online questionnaire. Descriptive statistics was used to summarize the demographics of the participants. The two-sample t-test, Chi-square test, and multiple logistic regression model were used to analyze the data.
Results:Out of 113 respondents, 108 (95.5%) had adequate knowledge and a positive attitude toward teledermatology. The majority (110/113, 97.35%) practiced teledermatology. The most commonly used platform was instant messaging applications(78/100, 70.91%), and the most common factor that influenced their practice was patient demands or needs(74/110, 67.27%). Those who did not practice teledermatology cited technological difficulties as the main reason.
Conclusion:Teledermatology was widely used by Filipino dermatologists to provide remote care during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, to fully utilize its potential and limit potential issues associated with its use even after the pandemic, continuous training and education among dermatologists and a more enabling technological environment may be needed.
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