What is an online video consultation?

Online dermatology consultations are carried out via video link. As long as you have a computer, tablet or smart phone, you can have a discussion with one of our Dermatologists about your skin concerns from the comfort of your own home. Online video consultations are extremely successful and popular among our patients, especially during times of restricted movement. For a video consultation to be successful, it is important that your condition is one that can be safely assessed and treated remotely. It is also important to understand the benefits as well as the limitations of a video consultation.

Telephone appointments

We also offer telephone appointments and the information below refers both to telephone and video consultations equally.

Get in touch today on 0121 285 4540

Conditions that are suitable for an online dermatology video consultation

A remote online consultation (by video or telephone) can be very useful in helping to diagnose and treat the following conditions:

  • Acne
  • Rosacea
  • Facial rashes
  • Eczema that is mild or moderate
  • Psoriasis that is mild or moderate
  • Follow up consultations where conditions require review and medications require managing

Online consultation is also useful for discussing a procedure that is being planned to take place at a later date such as:

  • Treatments for certain types of acne scar
  • Aesthetic treatments for injectables
  • Laser and Tixel treatments for facial resurfacing

Online consultations for a skincare MOT

A video consultation is also a good way of having your skincare reviewed and enhanced.

Conditions that are not suitable for an online consultation

Inevitably there is a compromise with online video consultations and telephone consultations as they do not allow the same degree of physical examination as a face-to-face consultation does.  The following are not seen by remote video or telephone consultation:

  • Mole checks
  • Total body skin checks
  • Hair loss where a diagnosis has not already been established
  • Severe psoriasis or eczema
  • Complex skin conditions
  • Difficult facial rashes that you have already seen another doctor for
  • 2 or more conditions on the face or other body area
  • Skin concerns on areas of the body for which you require a chaperone for examination

In these instances, a face-to-face consultation is required. In certain circumstances, however, it may be possible to have a video or telephone consultation first and have a face-to-face consultation at a later date.

How does a video or telephone consultation work?

You will be asked to provide 3 photos of the skin problem you would like to discuss in advance of the remote consultation. The doctor will discuss the problem with you and refer to the photos for assessment. The resolution of video consultation is such that visual assessment of the rash is not carried out over the video link – this is reliant on the photos you provide hence there is no material difference in the advice you would obtain in either a video or telephone consultation.

Are there any differences between a video and telephone consultation?

Many patients prefer video consultations as they can see their doctor face to face. However, assessment of the skin problem for both telephone and video consultations will rely on the photos that you submit and so there are no differences in the medical advice you will receive. If you prefer to speak over the telephone then please let us know.

Are there any limitations of a video consultation or telephone consultation?

While video consultations and telephone consultations are extremely convenient, and for the most part, reasonably accurate in identifying the likely cause of a skin problem, they are not as accurate as as face to face consultation as the physical assessment is based on the photos you provide before the consultation. Many skin conditions require evaluation over a period of time and so a face-to-face consultation may be required at a later stage. Visits to the clinic may also be required for blood tests and for procedures such as a skin biopsy.

Can video or telephone be used for follow-up consultations?

Follow-up consultations are required for many reasons and more information can be found here. Video consultations and telephone consultations are frequently suitable for follow-up consultations especially for those receiving results, and for those who are on medications such as Roaccutane.

Blood tests and skin biopsies

Blood tests and skin biopsies may be required as part of the investigations in determining a cause of a problem, or as part of preparing to take a medication. You will be required to attend a Clinic for your blood tests. Skin biopsies are carried out in the clinic by appointment only.

Private medical insurance and online consultations

Some insurers cover online consultations. It is recommended you check with your insurer as to whether you would be covered before making an appointment.

Prescriptions and clinic letters following a video or telephone consultation

Prescriptions will be uploaded electronically to Cloud Rx within two business days of your video consultation. A copy of the clinic report will also be sent to you and to your GP – this is usually dispatched within 5 working days of your consultation.

Overseas patients

We do not offer consultations, medical advice or prescriptions to those who are not in the UK. You must therefore be on UK soil at the time of your consultation with us. By booking an online consultation with us, you attest that you will be in the UK at the time of your consultation.

When you will need to attend the Clinic

You should be prepared to attend the clinic if:

  • If your doctor feels you require a face to face review either immediately after the online consultation or for follow up. Face to face consultations, however soon after online consultations, incur a fee at the current rate.
  • For blood tests or other investigations

What software and hardware are required for an online consultation?

You will be provided with full instructions when you have made your booking and you will be issued with a link. You will require Zoom software with a computer that has a camera and microphone.

Terms and conditions

Our standard terms and conditions apply to online consultations.

How to prepare for an online consultation by video or telephone

Here are a few helpful tips on preparing for a remote consultation

  1. Ensure your condition is suitable by referring to the list above or talking to our staff members
  2. Go to a room in which you have a strong wi-fi or telephone signal
  3. Ensure you have sent us 3 high-quality photos and completed the registration form
  4. Make sure you are in a room where you have privacy and cannot be overheard
  5. Take notes by having a pen and piece of paper handy
  6. Be patient as skin treatments may take time to work
  7. Appreciate that you may require a face to face consultation, at the prevailing cost, as it is not possible to fully evaluate a problem by remote consultation
  8. Understand that blood tests, skin biopsy tests and other investigations may also be required – these are charged for
  9. Understand that follow up consultations are required by 40 to 50% of those who have a skin problem for ongoing management of a condition

What are the prices for an online video consultation or telephone consultation?

The fees are at the same price as for a face to face consultation – you can see our fees here.  Prepayment is required to reserve an appointment.