Medical and Legal Aspects of the Practice of Teledermatology in Spain

• DOI: 10.1016/j.adengl.2020.09.016
• Publication Date: 2020-12-31T12:50:51Z
• Authors: P.J. Gómez Arias; E. Abad Arenas; M.C. Arias Blanco; J. Redondo Sánchez; M. Galán Gutiérrez; A.J. Vélez García...
• Keywords: Informed Consent; SARS-CoV-2; COVID-19; Dermatology; Insurance, Liability; Telemedicine; 3. Good health; 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; Spain; Personal Autonomy; Humans; European Union; Emergencies; Pandemics; Computer Security; Confidentiality

Teledermatology is now fully incorporated into our clinical practice. However, after reviewing current legislation on the ethical aspects of teledermatology (data confidentiality, quality of care, patient autonomy, and privacy) as well as insurance and professional responsibility, we observed that a specific regulatory framework is still lacking and related legal aspects are still at a preliminary stage of development. Safeguarding confidentiality and patient autonomy and ensuring secure storage and transfer of data are essential aspects of telemedicine. One of the main topics of debate has been the responsibilities of the physicians involved in the process, with the concept of designating a single responsible clinician emerging as a determining factor in the allocation of responsibility in this setting. A specific legal and regulatory framework must be put in place to ensure the safe practice of teledermatology for medical professionals and their patients.