Project duration: 2018-2020, 2025 update
Funder: The Australasian College of Dermatologists
Despite the potential of teledermatology to increase access to dermatology services and improve patient care, it was not widely practised in Australia. In an effort to increase uptake of teledermatology by Australian dermatologists and support best practice, guidelines for teledermatology for the Australian context were developed by COH in collaboration with The Australasian College of Dermatologists’ E-Health Committee.
They were informed by evidence, existing international teledermatology guidelines, national and international telehealth guidelines, and existing guidelines for imaging in dermatology, and reference relevant Australian legislation such as the Privacy Act 1988. The draft document was commented on by the Australasian College of Dermatologists, and subsequently finalised and adopted by the College.
The guidelines identify how to optimise patient care and reduce risk for dermatologists practicing teledermatology. They address clinical, technical, medico-legal, and administrative aspects. The final guidelines were published in Australasian Journal of Dermatology in 2020 and updated in 2025.
Relevant publications include:
- Original published guidelines (2020): Practice guidelines for teledermatology in Australia
- Update to the guidelines (2025): Practice Guidelines for Teledermatology in Australia: 2025 Update
- Literature review used to inform the development of the guidelines (2020): A review of literature supporting the development of practice guidelines for teledermatology in Australia
