Factors Influencing Willingness to Pay for Teledermatology among Patients with Psoriasis

Abstract

Objective: To determine the proportion of patients with psoriasis prepared to pay for TD. Attitudes and factors influencing their willingness to pay (WTP) were evaluated. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2020 to October 2021. Adult patients with psoriasis completed a 2-page self-administered questionnaire. Results: Of 200 patients, 133 (66.5%) were unfamiliar with TD. However, 144 (72%) were prepared to pay for TD if it were introduced. The majority of patients answered that 300 Bath was the maximum price that they were willing to pay for TD service. Compared with traditional in-person visits, the significant positive influencing factors on WTP were TD’s quicker delivery of treatment, lower costs, and non-inferiority to usual care. Multivariate analysis showed that the independent factors for WTP were higher educational levels, elimination of out-of-pocket, in-hospital visit expenses, owning a business, TD options suited to psoriasis, and no adverse effects on the patient-doctor relationship. Conclusion: Knowing patients’ attitudes toward TD and the factors influencing their WTP is essential for developing efficient services. Data from this study can be used to develop successful TD services for patients with psoriasis.

Keywords

• Psoriasis
• Teledermatology
• Telemedicine
• Willingness to pay