NSC's innovative home iontophoresis programme transforms traditional dermatological care through digital patient education and remote treatment capabilities. The initiative has significantly reduced clinic visits while maintaining treatment efficacy, enabling over 130 patients to manage their condition from home. Through comprehensive instructional videos and clinical support, the programme demonstrates how healthcare innovation can enhance accessibility without compromising quality of care.
The National Skin Centre (NSC) has implemented a pioneering initiative that transforms traditional dermatological care delivery through innovative home treatment solutions.
When patients have the right support and tools, they are enabled to take charge of their treatment
"We focus on making treatment options more available for patients while ensuring clinical outcomes are maintained similar to clinic sessions. When patients have the right support and tools, they are enabled to take charge of their treatment," says Principal Pharmacist Winnie Choo.
Enhancing Treatment Accessibility
Traditional iontophoresis sessions required multiple clinic visits, with each session necessitating up to 30 minutes of nursing resources for patient education and demonstration.
NSC addressed this challenge by developing an integrated programme that combines comprehensive digital education with clinical support, enabling patients to conduct treatments in their home environment.
Enhancing Patient Education Through Digital Solutions
The programme’s foundation lies in its comprehensive instructional videos that guide patients through the treatment protocol. These educational resources cover essential components from device setup and safety protocols to maintenance procedures. The effectiveness of this digital approach is evidenced by patient outcomes: 96% report confidence in treatment administration post-video instruction, with 76% prepared to proceed independently without additional face-to-face nursing sessions.
Measuring Real Impact
Implemented in 2020, the programme has delivered significant benefits. The programme has facilitated home-based treatment for over 130 patients, resulting in the reduction of more than 3,400 clinic visits while maintaining rigorous treatment safety and efficacy standards. The initiative has optimized healthcare resource utilization, reducing nursing time by 20 minutes per patient and enabling healthcare professionals to focus on complex cases and essential clinical duties. For patients, the flexibility of home treatment has led to better adherence and satisfaction with their care. Notably, the programme proved instrumental in ensuring continuous care delivery during COVID-19 restrictions.
This collaborative initiative between dermatologists, nurses and pharmacists exemplifies how strategic innovation can enhance healthcare accessibility while maintaining clinical excellence. It represents NSC’s ongoing commitment to developing evidence-based, patient-centered solutions that advance dermatological care delivery.
