faqderm

Questions

FAQ

Everything you need to know ...

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What is an imager? What is impact on my visit cost?

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Any skin condition can be diagnosed with the right set of photos. The imager has an emerging role in remote medicine: An imager is a technical expert in the management of various clinical media. For our purposes, imagers capture, label, and store high quality medical photographs. A note about the imager and cost: There is no cost for the first submission of your photos. If additional submissions are required, these contribute to cost due to extra work. However, with the use of a professional imager you may resubmit at no added fee, even if multiple subsequent submissions are required. Until you feel comfortable with all aspects of organizing and submitting dermatologic photos, we recommend using our professional imager service (please call for pricing).

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Can teledermatology help with cosmetic issues?

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Yes, we offer consultations for cosmetic concerns such as wrinkles, pigmentation, and more.

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Will my case be reviewed by a licensed dermatologist?

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Yes, all consultations are handled by board-certified dermatologists with expertise in telemedicine.

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Can I upload more images after my first consult?

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Yes. Each new image set requires an appointment that accounts for the time need for review. Please reach out to our staff for help with submitting new photos.

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What if I don’t know how to take proper photos?

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We've got you. Options include a live photo session with an imager, help from a friend or family member, or using our step-by-step photo guide. In-person or phone consults can be arranged as needed.

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What is the turn-around time after uploading my case?

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Most cases are reviewed within 24–48 hours. Urgent cases may be prioritized.

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How do I book another appointment as a returning patient?

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Visit the OpenEMR Patient Portal to manage follow-ups, results, and new appointment bookings.

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How do I pay for teledermatology?

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We accept payment directly via phone as well as with our billing team at Horizons +1 (415-787-3202).

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Can I get care after hours or on weekends?

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Yes. We offer evening and weekend appointments.

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Are video calls required for every visit?

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No. We offer phone+photo, phone-only, and video visits as well as face to face. Our video calls use MedWeb technology for high-resolution, secure image capture.

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Is teledermatology covered by insurance?

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Coverage varies. Some plans cover all or part of the visit. Use our billing codes to check with your insurer.

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What if I need to be seen in person?

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We pride ourselves on versatily. You can structure your visit in the comfort of your own home as a remote visit, or in-person with us in our clinic in San Francisco. As well, you can choose from a variety of times during the day, including after-hours and weekends. Visit types include video, phone+photo, phone only (staff approval), and in-person. You choose what works best for you.

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What conditions can be treated virtually?

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Nearly any skin concern can be addressed via teledermatology, provided we receive quality photos. In-person care is always an option.

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Can I get a prescription through teledermatology?

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Yes, if needed, our dermatologists can prescribe medications and send them directly to your preferred pharmacy.

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Where is a good place to start for new patients?

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Please call us at 415-770-4749, we will direct you through the process of referral. If you are in the process of getting referred to a dermatologist we are happy to provide guidance so that your care progresses seamlessly. In the future, we will have a user-friendly hybrid referral system that will be online and both self-service and provider-driven.