Analyzing the Satisfaction of Egyptian Patients with Tele Dermatology for Various Skin Diseases: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Iman Mohamed Almasry*, Gehad Abdel-Rahim Abdel-Nabi Abdel-Rahim and Hala Marawan Gabr

Background: Tele dermatology (TD) has become an increasingly important modality for providing dermatologic care worldwide, offering rapid access and reducing the burden on traditional face-to-face consultations. Despite its growing utilization, data from low- and middle-income countries, including Egypt, remain scarce regarding patient satisfaction, utilization patterns, and determinants of positive experiences.

Objective: To analyze the value of using TD in management of diverse skin diseases and to assess patient satisfaction with this service in Egypt.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from May 2024 to May 2025 using a validated predesigned constructed google form questionnaire in Arabic language and distributed through various online platforms. Eligible participants were adults (≥18 years) who had previously used TD services for their skin diseases, a total of 230 respondents were included. Data on demographics, service utilization, consultation experience, perceived accuracy, satisfaction, and future willingness to use TD were collected. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, independent t-tests, non- parametric tests for ordinal data, and multivariate binary logistic regression to identify independent predictors of high satisfaction.

Results: The mean age of participants was 34.1 ± 11.3 years, with a predominance of females (62.6%, n=144) and urban residents (60%; n=138). Image-based consultations were the most common modality (86.5%, n=199), with skin rash (53.9%, n=124) representing the main presenting complaint. Eczema (19.1%, n=44) was the most frequent final diagnosis. Most participants (77.4%, n=178) reported rapid response times (<24 hours), ease of platform use (98.3%, n=226), and clarity of physician explanations (98.7%, n=227). Confidence in the diagnosis was high (93.1%, n=214), and the majority reported effective treatment (89.6%, n=206) and overall satisfaction (94.0%, n=216). Multivariate regression identified excellent interaction quality (aOR = 5.82; 95% CI: 3.12–10.85), very easy access (aOR = 4.76; 95% CI: 2.58–8.79), and image-based consultations (aOR = 3.15; 95% CI: 1.21–8.19) as the strongest predictors of high satisfaction. Male gender (aOR = 2.42; p = 0.005) and rural residence (aOR = 1.87; p = 0.042) were also significant demographic determinants.

Conclusion: TD demonstrates substantial utility in the Egyptian setting, achieving high patient confidence, diagnostic reliability, and satisfaction. Service-related factors, particularly accessibility, interaction quality, and consultation modality, are pivotal determinants of favorable outcomes. TD represents a viable, patient-centered alternative to conventional dermatology practice, with potential for broader integration into healthcare systems.

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