App to connect acne patients with dermatologists

Boston - Patients with acne looking for a dermatologist may not have to go much farther than the nearest computer or smartphone once NoviMedicine, a new telemedicine firm, launches its system for linking potential patients with dermatologists for remote diagnosis and treatment.

Using the app, patients would begin by filling out questionnaires and uploading photos of problem areas, MedCity News reports. The system analyzes the information and assigns it to a dermatologist. Physicians then assess the information to tailor a treatment plan to each patient. Once the plan is finished, it is sent to the patient via email or text message.

“The product is finished, but we have a few more I’s to dot and T’s to cross before going live,” MedCity News quotes co-founder and dermatologist Joshua Spanogle, M.D., as saying.

The system will initially focus on acne but could branch out into other dermatologic areas.

“The driving force behind this is mostly one of access,” Dr. Spanogle is quoted as saying. “Through a service like this, we can deliver expert care to a population that’s underserved by dermatologists.”

The company reportedly has received commitments from about five dermatologists and anticipates more once patients begin coming on board.

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