Patterns and barriers of teledermatology in resource-limited settings in COVID-19 pandemic: A descriptive cross-sectional survey of Nepalese dermatologists

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has limited in-person consultations and disturbed easy health care access. Teledermatology (Td) is used to provide services in such situations. OBJECTIVE: To find the pattern and barriers of Td during the COVID-19 pandemic in resource-limited settings. METHODS: An online survey focused on dermatologists and residents in dermatology in Nepal was conducted. The online form with the prepared questionnaire was sent to the potential participants. RESULTS: A total of 86 responses were received, with 60% response rate. Approximately 62.8% (n = 54) of the participants were involved in COVID-19 care. The most common method used was a store-and-forward technique. Approximately 90% of the participants used smartphones for Td, and Viber was the most commonly used application. The straightforward diagnoses in Td were fungal infections, acne, alopecia, pyoderma, and viral infections. The common barriers were poor image quality, inability for further test, and unsuitability for all patients. The majority of the participants believed that there is a need for guidelines for Td. LIMITATIONS: A small sample size and associated technical difficulties. CONCLUSION: Td has proven to be an excellent tool; however, it may never replace the in-person consultation. A newer guideline must be prepared to regulate Td in the future.