Improving access to dermatology through telemedicine and AI
Improving dermatology access by direct-to-patient teledermatology and computer-assisted diagnosis
This study is testing a new mobile app called My VA Images that helps veterans easily share their skin concerns and photos with dermatologists, making it quicker and easier for them to get the care they need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Affairs Med Ctr San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10976415 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance access to dermatology services for patients, particularly veterans, by utilizing a mobile app called My VA Images. Patients will be able to securely submit their medical history and photos of their skin for evaluation by dermatologists. The app will also incorporate artificial intelligence to analyze and triage these images, potentially improving the speed and accuracy of diagnoses. This approach addresses the challenges of accessing dermatological care, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans seeking dermatological care who can use the mobile app to submit their skin images and medical history.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have access to smartphones or are unable to use mobile applications may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve access to dermatological care for patients, leading to timely diagnoses and treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using telemedicine and AI for improving access to healthcare, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- Veterans Affairs Med Ctr San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Oh, Dennis H — Veterans Affairs Med Ctr San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Oh, Dennis H
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.