There is no question that collaboration between clinicians is a critical part of healthcare. However, compared to other specialists, dermatologists often have less opportunity for collaboration due to the nature of smaller independent practices. So, how can dermatologists increase their collaboration opportunities and improve patient outcomes?
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Understanding Healthcare Collaboration
There have been numerous studies on the benefits of healthcare collaboration. One study even found that diagnostic accuracy was significantly improved with increased collective intelligence compared to the diagnostic determinations made by individuals. These findings are beginning to impact medical education, with as many as 75% of medical students receiving some form of team training.
Healthcare collaboration has been cited as a critical strategy for healthcare reform.
Healthcare Collaboration in Dermatology
Unfortunately, due to the independent nature of dermatology practices, there are fewer immediate opportunities for healthcare collaboration compared to other specialties. For example, of the 11,000 practicing dermatologists in the U.S., about one-third are solo practitioners and operate their practices entirely on their own. Beyond that, nearly three-fourths of dermatologists work within practices with five physicians or fewer.
Independent dermatologists simply not having direct access to other healthcare professionals decreases collaboration opportunities.
As the largest organ in the body, the skin serves as the first alert for many other conditions and comorbidities. So, it makes sense that dermatologists are looking for ways to increase their collaboration opportunities.
How to Increase Healthcare Collaboration Opportunities
Increasing healthcare collaboration opportunities in dermatology (or any specialty) is about access. Modern tools, like Figure 1, make it easy for dermatologists to reach beyond the confines of their offices to collaborate with peers to improve patient outcomes.
Peer-to-Peer Collaboration with Figure 1
Figure 1 is a social media app for physicians that supports collaboration among millions of verified healthcare professionals around the globe. By signing up, you have instant access to nearly 1,000 dermatologists (and counting). In addition, you can collaborate on cases, share your expertise with other physicians, and even earn free CME credits. Figure 1 provides the on-demand collaboration opportunities dermatologists are looking for to improve patient outcomes.
40% of healthcare professionals on Figure 1 who are unable to solve patient cases on their own find a resolution through peer-to-peer collaboration on the platform.
Published September 26, 2022
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