Urban versus rural utilization of teledermoscopy in self-skin examinations: preliminary results of a cohort study in the states of Oregon and Washington

Abstract

In this letter, we examine the application of smartphone dermoscopy in teledermatology skin cancer screenings for individuals in rural communities. There is currently a paucity of literature that examines teledermoscopy in rural areas of the United States. This is significant in consideration of the barriers posed to individuals in rural areas seeking access to dermatology care. This manuscript addresses the intersection of technology and expanding access to underserved communities − issues paramount to the future of dermatology.

Keywords

• dermoscopy
• teledermoscopy
• skin cancer
• melanoma
• teledermatology
• rural areas