The teledermatology grant, currently in its second year, has supported provider capacity and enhanced access to critical specialty care services within a primary care setting. Through the grant, patients have faster access to dermatology care through their primary care provider (PCP) at Kennedy Community Health, enabled by digital health solutions and real-time consultations.
Since the start of the grant period, the program has dramatically reduced wait times and improved access to care, helping patients to receive timely and effective treatment. To date, the program has provided 204 dermatology consultations, 80% of which resulted in avoiding an unnecessary referral and allowed patients to receive follow-up care directly from their PCP rather than wait to see a specialist. The average turnaround time for a program consultation was about 18.5 hours, significantly faster than traditional pathways. In comparison, the average wait time for a dermatology appointment for a new patient can range between 50 to 72 days.
“As a health plan that was founded by community-based organizations nearly 40 years ago, Mass General Brigham Health Plan is proud to expand access to care and continue to support exceptional healthcare experiences at community health centers,” said Steve Tringale, President, Mass General Brigham Health Plan. “Through our partnership, we are enabling comprehensive and integrated care to address a critical health need in the community.”
“This partnership is a game-changer for our patients,” said Steve Kerrigan, President & CEO of Kennedy Community Health. “With the support of this grant, we are integrating dermatology expertise directly into our primary care services. This innovative approach shortens wait times, reduces pressure on specialists and ensures our patients receive the care they need promptly and efficiently. It is a powerful example of how technology and collaboration can significantly improve access to essential health care services.”
Through the grant, Kennedy Community Health collaborates with MAVEN Project, a nonprofit organization that connects specialty care providers through telehealth technology. Using a secure app or portable device, PCPs take patient history and images of skin concerns, then submit them directly to a dermatologist for remote consultation. When specialty dermatology care is needed, patients are directed to appropriate providers, ensuring timely and effective treatment. This allows Kennedy Community Health providers to support coordination of care within a primary care setting, expand capacity, reduce administrative processes, prevent unnecessary referrals and more quickly direct patients to the appropriate level of care when necessary.
By expanding access to dermatology services, Mass General Brigham Health Plan and Kennedy Community Health are actively closing critical gaps in healthcare delivery — helping patients receive timely evaluations and treatment.
About Mass General Brigham Health Plan
Mass General Brigham Health Plan serves commercial, Medicare Advantage, and Medicaid members. For almost 40 years, Mass General Brigham Health Plan has been committed to delivering exceptional member experiences. As a member of Mass General Brigham, we are advancing innovative solutions through value-based care models that center on the health needs of our members and enable seamless and affordable care.
