Increasing Access to Specialized Dermatology Care: A Retrospective Study Investigating Clinical Operation and Impact of a University-Affiliated Free Clinic

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction Our objective was to study the impact and clinical operation of an integrated model for free specialized dermatology care via collaboration between an academic institution and a nonprofit outpatient clinic through an analysis of patient demographics and care provided.

Methods Hope@UMHS is a partnership between the University of Michigan Health System (UMHS) and Hope Clinic (HC) which provides free specialty consultations to uninsured residents of Southeast Michigan. A retrospective chart review was completed for patients referred to the UMHS Dermatology clinic as part of the HOPE@UMHS collaboration from April 2012 through February 2020.

Results Of the 294 referred patients, 264 were managed in 30 clinic sessions over 8 years, staffed by 92 unique volunteers. Patients most commonly presented with atopic dermatitis (10.5%), seborrheic dermatitis (7.9%), and actinic keratosis (7.4%). The majority of patients (68.2%) were prescribed at least one new medication. Nine skin cancers, including one melanoma, were diagnosed and treated. There were 102 procedures performed. Eighty-seven percent of patients received conclusive evaluation and treatment at the time of their consultation.

Conclusion Our experience illustrates that providing free, comprehensive dermatology care in a university hospital by partnering with a nonprofit clinic is both feasible and beneficial to the greater community.