Telehealth Dermatology Visits

What Is a Telehealth Dermatology Visit?

A telehealth visit — also called a teledermatology appointment — lets you connect face-to-face with one of our dermatology providers over a secure video call. You get the same expert evaluation and personalized treatment plan you would receive in our Burien or Bellevue offices, without having to leave home or take time off work.

Telehealth is ideal for follow-up appointments, medication management, and conditions where a visual assessment supplemented by your photos is sufficient for diagnosis and treatment. Our providers will let you know upfront if your concern requires an in-person visit instead.

Conditions We Evaluate via Telehealth

Many common dermatologic conditions can be accurately assessed and treated through a telehealth visit, especially when supported by clear photographs of the affected skin:

• Acne (all grades) — diagnosis, treatment initiation, and ongoing management
• Rosacea — evaluation of flushing, redness, papules, and eye involvement
• Eczema (atopic dermatitis) — flare management, steroid adjustments, barrier repair guidance
• Psoriasis — plaque assessment, medication refills, biologic pre-authorization support
• Rash evaluation — with patient-submitted photographs of the affected area
• Medication refills for established patients on stable regimens
• Follow-up visits after in-office procedures or biopsies
• Seborrheic dermatitis, folliculitis, perioral dermatitis, and other inflammatory conditions

What Cannot Be Done via Telehealth

Telehealth has real limitations, and your safety always comes first. The following services require an in-person visit at one of our offices:

• Skin cancer screening and full-body skin exams
• Biopsy or tissue sampling of suspicious lesions
• Mole removal, cyst excision, or surgical procedures
• Intralesional corticosteroid or filler injections
• Laser treatments, phototherapy, or device-based procedures
• Any new growth or lesion that may require hands-on examination

If your telehealth provider determines that an in-person evaluation is needed, we will help you schedule an appointment at our Burien or Bellevue location as quickly as possible.

How to Prepare for Your Telehealth Visit

A little preparation goes a long way toward getting the most out of your virtual appointment:

Before Your Appointment

• Take clear, well-lit photos of the affected skin area from multiple angles
• Compile your current medication list, including supplements and over-the-counter products
• Gather any prior treatment records, lab results, or specialist notes relevant to your concern
• Complete your patient intake forms through the portal before the visit
• Test your camera, microphone, and internet connection in advance

During Your Appointment

• Be in a private, well-lit space where you can speak freely
• Have your skin visible and accessible — wear loose or removable clothing if the affected area is on your body
• Be ready to show the affected area directly to the camera at the provider's request
• Have a pen and paper or your phone handy to take notes on your treatment plan

Technology & Privacy

Your privacy is our priority. We use a HIPAA-compliant video platform — the same standard required for all healthcare communications — to protect your personal health information. Your visit is never recorded, and no identifying data is shared with third parties.

No special software download is required. You will receive a secure link before your appointment that opens directly in your web browser on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Insurance & Coverage

Telehealth coverage has expanded significantly, and most major insurance plans — including Medicare and Washington Medicaid (Apple Health) — now cover dermatology telehealth visits at rates comparable to in-person care.

Coverage details vary by plan, so we recommend confirming your telehealth benefits with your insurer before your visit. Our front desk team is happy to assist with any billing questions.