Recommendations for Dermatology Office Reopening in the Era of COVID-19

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic, originating in Wuhan, China, has become a major public health and economic challenge for countries around the world. As of May 08, 2020, there are over 3 million COVID-19 cases, and 250,000 COVID-19-associated deaths in 215 countries. As more data is collected, updated infection control measures are continuously released and published by government, public health authorities, and physician specialty associations. Across the globe, dermatological practices have had to limit their operations to varying degrees to facilitate disease control, but as the pandemic subsides, they will broaden their operations. In light of the uncertainty surrounding safe and effective practice of medical and aesthetic dermatology in the era of COVID-19, fourteen international experts in the field contributed to recommendations for effective infection control protocols and practice management modifications. While guidance from the World Health Organization and local public health officials comes first, these recommendations are crafted as a starting point for dermatologists worldwide to commence either reopening their doors to patients or expanding available service offerings. This can help ensure that patients receive needed care in the short term and improve long term practice viability.

Consensus Guidelines for Teledermatology: Scoping Review

“…There is international interest in guidance for teledermatology, despite international variation in payment, infrastructure, health system characteristics, and health priorities. However, only 2 reports described international guidance, one focusing on imaging standards [ 27 ] and the other focusing on reopening clinics during the COVID-19 pandemic [ 21 ].…”

“…Those recommendations indicate that telemedicine visits between a patient and provider may be acceptable. Arruda et al [ 21 ] presented international recommendations for reopening dermatology offices, with summary guidance for the successful integration of telemedicine into practice, including SAF consultation, new consultations, and attention to local government regulations. Brochez et al [ 23 ] made pragmatic recommendations about triaging the care of dermato-oncology patients and deciding when care can and cannot be postponed.…”

“…Practice guidelines for teledermatology in Australia 2020 Abbott et al [20] "A group of international experts was assembled to formulate guidance and best-practices for resuming dermatology practices in a COVID-19 era" [21].…”

“…Recommendations for Dermatology Office Reopening in the Era of COVID-19 2020 Arruda et al [21] Statement of recommendations to guide dermatologists "who treat psoriasis, especially in cases where patients are receiving treatment or are about to initiate treatment with selective immunomodulators or immunosuppressants" [22].…”