A simulation model for analysing patient activity in dermatology

We developed a general model to assess patient activity within the primary and secondary health-care sectors following a dermatology outpatient consul tation. Based on observed variables from the UK teledermatology trial, the model showed that up to 11 doctor-patient interactions occurred before a pa tient was ultimately discharged from care. In a cohort of 1000 patients, th e average number of health-care visits was 2.4 (range 1-11). Simulation ana lysis suggested that the most important parameter affecting the total numbe r of doctor-patient Interactions is patient discharge from care following t he initial consultation. This implies that resources should be concentrated in this area. The introduction of teledermatology (either realtime or stor e and forward) changes the values of the model parameters. The model provid es a quantitative tool for planning the future provision of dermatology hea lth-care.