AI, Apps, and Access: Tech Tools Reshaping Dermatology

At Dermatology Week APP Day 2025, Kristine Kucera, PA-C, MPAS, DHSc, delivered a wide-ranging and timely session titled “Modern Tools, Modern Risk: Telemedicine, Coding, and Artificial Intelligence in Dermatologic Diagnosis.” Her message? Tech is changing the way dermatology is delivered, and we need to adapt with intention.

“Best practices help ensure effective use of technology in dermatology and mitigate risk,” Kucera said.

She began with telemedicine, outlining its 3 models—synchronous, asynchronous, and hybrid—and highlighting its strengths in triage, convenience, and patient access. Especially in rural areas, she noted, virtual visits help fill critical care gaps. But limitations remain, including poor photo quality, diagnostic uncertainty, and lower satisfaction among older or less tech-savvy patients.

Kucera also touched on teledermatology’s cost-effectiveness, citing savings between 6% and 45% depending on the system. Still, issues like inconsistent insurance coverage, licensing hurdles, and language barriers remain.

With more providers relying on electronic health records and automated coding systems, Kucera emphasized the importance of human oversight. While artificial intelligence (AI) can assist with CPT and ICD-10 coding using natural language processing, inaccurate documentation may still lead to claim denials.

“AI is powerful, but it’s not a replacement for human review,” she warned.

From image recognition to scribing tools, Kucera walked attendees through the rising role of AI in dermatologic diagnosis. She highlighted apps that can identify lesions with up to 90% accuracy, but cautioned that data bias, poor image quality, and lack of regulatory validation can lead to misclassification, especially in patients with darker skin tones.

A case study comparing 2 AI models showed melanoma detection accuracy ranging from 44% to 64%, underlining the need for clinician confirmation.

Kucera also addressed AI-powered scribes, which use ambient listening to auto-generate medical notes. Although efficient, they raise privacy and accuracy concerns, especially in complex conversations.

Technology is moving fast, and dermatology is at the forefront. But thoughtful integration matters.

“Combine AI with expert oversight,” Kucera advised. “And never underestimate the value of clinical judgment.”

For more meeting coverage, visit the Dermatology Week APP Day newsroom.

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Reference

Kucera K. Modern tools, modern risks: telemedicine, coding, and AI in dermatologic diagnosis. Presented at: Dermatology Week; October 22–25, 2025; Virtual.