Technology enables dermatologists to treat emergencies when remote from office

DELRAY BEACH, Fla., May 11, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Dermatology patients in Palm Beach County now have the comfort of knowing their doctor is available to see them for emergencies even when he is on vacation. Dr. Steven Hacker, a top selling author for physicians, and recognized by his peers as one of the top dermatologists in Florida, is the first dermatologist in the country to introduce the brand new robotic telemedicine technology as a service to his patients.

"The robot is relatively new in healthcare. It is 100% remote controlled and is called VGO. It works well for my patients that are in need of emergency attention for such conditions as Shingles, acute infections and post-operative issues," said Dr. Hacker. He has been using the device in his practice for the last six months.

Telemedicine and Teledermatology, specifically, are currently not reimbursed by Medicare. Dr. Hacker cautions, "This is not a money making device. It is simply a service that I can provide to my patients to ensure they always have physician coverage. If my patient develops Shingles or an acute bacterial infection and I am out of town, I still need to examine them to get them started on medicine immediately. Medicare does not reimburse for this so many doctors will not want to purchase the robotic device. Regardless, it remains good medicine," says Dr. Hacker.

Dr. Hacker points out limitations to the robot. He does not use it to evaluate moles, pigmented lesions, or possible skin cancer because resolution and zoom functionality are not at a level adequate for this type of evaluation. "However, for pattern recognition, acute rashes such as Shingles or Poison Ivy and post-operative complications, for example, it is more than adequate," says Dr. Hacker.

To learn about Dr. Steven Hacker and his new robot, visit www.PalmBeachDermasurgery.com or call 561.276.3111.

About Dr. Hacker

Dr. Steven Hacker, a Phi Beta Kappa, was barely twenty when he was one of twelve students selected to enter medical school through the prestigious Junior Honors Medical Program. For the last fourteen years he has been listed as a Castle Connolly Florida "Top Doctor". He is the top selling author of the book,  The Medical Entrepreneur (www.TheMedicalEntrepreneur.com), and is published in more than twenty peer-reviewed medical journals. Dr. Hacker's expertise includes Coolscultping™, Botox™, Juvederm™, peels and Skin cancer surgery. His exclusive dermatology practice is located in Delray Beach. For information about Dr. Hacker call 561.276.3111 or visit www.PalmBeachDermasurgery.com.

Contact:
Leslie Firsten
561-276-3112
leslie@dermasurgerygroup.com

SOURCE Steven M Hacker, MD

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