Publicação
Between Innovation and Implementation: Digital media and AI in dermatological treatment in Germany
| Resumo: | This dissertation explores the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies in dermatological care, with a particular focus on teledermatology and AI-assisted diagnostic systems. The aim of the study was to analyse the potential, challenges, and acceptance factors of these technologies from the perspective of medical experts. To this end, seven semi-structured interviews were conducted with dermatologists and healthcare decision-makers from Germany. The findings indicate that teledermatology offers high efficiency, particularly for follow-up care and chronic skin conditions. However, significant barriers exist, including limited technical infrastructure and reimbursement issues, which hinder widespread adoption. AI applications are currently mainly limited to mole analysis; many systems are not certified as medical devices and lack explainability in their decision-making processes. Acceptance among physicians and patients varies widely and depends on factors such as age, technical affinity, and trust in the systems. Overall, the greatest potential of telemedicine and AI lies in their ability to support medical workflows. This includes triaging patients, streamlining clinical processes, and contributing to the education of non-specialist healthcare providers. A broader implementation will require regulatory adjustments, standardised technologies, and targeted training initiatives. |
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| Autores principais: | Monks, Henry |
| Assunto: | Teledermatology Inteligência artificial -- Artificial intelligence Digital health Healthcare innovation Dermatology Clinical decision support Teledermatologia Saúde digital inovação em saúde Dermatologia Apoio à decisão clínica |
| Ano: | 2025 |
| País: | Portugal |
| Tipo de documento: | dissertação de mestrado |
| Tipo de acesso: | acesso restrito |
| Instituição associada: | ISCTE |
| Idioma: | inglês |
| Origem: | Repositório ISCTE |
| Resumo: | This dissertation explores the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies in dermatological care, with a particular focus on teledermatology and AI-assisted diagnostic systems. The aim of the study was to analyse the potential, challenges, and acceptance factors of these technologies from the perspective of medical experts. To this end, seven semi-structured interviews were conducted with dermatologists and healthcare decision-makers from Germany. The findings indicate that teledermatology offers high efficiency, particularly for follow-up care and chronic skin conditions. However, significant barriers exist, including limited technical infrastructure and reimbursement issues, which hinder widespread adoption. AI applications are currently mainly limited to mole analysis; many systems are not certified as medical devices and lack explainability in their decision-making processes. Acceptance among physicians and patients varies widely and depends on factors such as age, technical affinity, and trust in the systems. Overall, the greatest potential of telemedicine and AI lies in their ability to support medical workflows. This includes triaging patients, streamlining clinical processes, and contributing to the education of non-specialist healthcare providers. A broader implementation will require regulatory adjustments, standardised technologies, and targeted training initiatives. |
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