Training, Transparency, and Teledermatology: New Survey Uncovers Key Priorities in Patient Care

A new nationwide survey commissioned by Miiskin and conducted independently by YouGov offers a detailed snapshot of how US patients are navigating dermatologic care today, revealing pronounced gaps in access and a growing openness to teledermatology, particularly when it means faster access to board-certified specialists.¹

The 10-question survey captured responses from more than 1,000 adults reflecting a nationally representative sample across age, gender, education, ethnicity, employment status, and geography. According to Miiskin, the questionnaire’s findings “offer new insights into care access, patient preferences, and the growing role of telehealth in dermatology.”

A central finding is patients’ strong preference for board-certified dermatologists. 3 in 4 respondents (74%) described seeing a board-certified dermatologist as somewhat or very important, compared to receiving care from other dermatology providers such as nurse practitioners or physician assistants. Furthermore, 58% percent also emphasized the belief that it’s very important to clearly understand a provider’s name, role, and qualifications, suggesting that transparency remains a critical component of trust in dermatologic care.

Despite this preference for specialist expertise, access remains a significant challenge. Skin cancer screenings and the presence of suspicious moles were found to be the main reasons for seeking dermatologic care in patients (29%). However, only 1 in 5 respondents reported seeing a dermatologist on a regular basis, largely because of substantial structural barriers. Insurance limitations were the most frequently cited obstacle, reported by 65% of participants. Out-of-pocket costs (42%) and logistical constraints (such as difficulty securing timely appointments or inconvenient office locations) were also noted by one-third of respondents. On average, patients reported waiting more than 30 days for an in-person dermatology appointment, underscoring persistent workforce and scheduling constraints that disproportionately affect both rural and densely populated urban areas.

The findings point to teledermatology as a growing—and increasingly accepted—solution for easing these access challenges. Approximately 85% of patients initially stated that they would prefer an in-person appointment with a dermatologist versus a telehealth visit when treated for conditions such as acne, rashes, and anti-aging concerns. However, more than half of respondents said that when faced with the choice between waiting longer for an in-person visit or connecting sooner via virtual care, they would opt for teledermatology. This preference for speed highlights a shift: timely care is a patient’s priority, outweighing whether the visit happens in-person or virtually.

Cost considerations also contribute to teledermatology’s appeal. Digital dermatology visits often fall within the range of a standard insurance copay, with typical consultation fees averaging between $40 and $60. Interestingly, 15% of patients have used artificial intelligence platforms such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini to receive advice on skin concerns.

“These findings reinforce our mission to expand access to high-quality dermatology care through teledermatology,” said Jon Friis, CEO of Miiskin. “By exclusively connecting patients with board-certified dermatologists and reducing wait times from weeks to just 48 hours, Miiskin is ensuring people can get expert care when they need it. Our goal is to remove barriers, offer clarity and trust in who is providing care, and ultimately make it easier for patients to prioritize skin health.”¹

Overall, the survey from Miiskin highlights a dermatology landscape marked by rising patient expectations around expertise, transparency, and access. For clinicians, these trends may signal an ongoing shift in how dermatologic services are delivered and how patients define high-quality, accessible care in the years ahead.

Reference

1. New Survey Finds 3 in 4 Patients Prioritize Board-Certified Dermatologists; Half Will Go Virtual to See One Sooner. Miiskin. News release. Published November 18, 2025. Accessed November 18, 2025.