WASHINGTON (Dec. 5, 2024) – The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences Department of Dermatology, in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church and the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF), announced a renewed funding commitment of $350,000 from Johnson & Johnson in support of the monthly GW Teledermatology Clinic and Health Fair Program.
This program offers access to dermatologic care for residents in Washington, D.C., Wards 7 and 8. Since its inception in 2022, the program has evolved and grown to ensure that critical dermatological and comorbidity management services are delivered in a thoughtful and inclusive manner, particularly for individuals affected by psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Over the past year, the teledermatology clinic achieved remarkable milestones:
- Clinics Hosted: Nine monthly clinics serving more than 130 patients with free dermatological consultations and telemedicine visits.
- Comorbidity Screenings: More than 80 individuals screened for cardiovascular and metabolic conditions, with tailored follow-up care plans provided.
- Teledermatology Success: 78% of participants reported their telemedicine concerns were fully addressed, with 98.64% said they would use telemedicine again for a future visit.
- Educational Outreach: Seven education stations were established to raise awareness about skin health and disease prevention among Ward 7 and 8 residents.
“This was such an amazing experience,” a program participant said, the accessibility and holistic care approach. “I got information I wouldn’t have received elsewhere, and the care was phenomenal.”
With continued support from Johnson & Johnson, the program will build of its successes and target new goals, including:
- Expanding the monthly clinic capacity with additional in-person and virtual visits.
- Launching community education initiatives, including quarterly webinars and in-person seminars.
- Introducing a transportation support program to ensure no patient is left behind due to logistical challenges.
- Develop and distribute educational materials for both patients and healthcare providers to address disparities in dermatological care for skin of color.
“Johnson & Johnson’s continued support is pivotal to closing the gap in dermatology care for underserved populations in our backyard,” said Adam Friedman, MD, professor and chair of the Department of Dermatology. “This partnership ensures that we not only sustain, but also amplify the program’s impact by delivering compassionate, comprehensive care, and empowering communities.”
In addition to expanding access to care, the teledermatology program has also had a tremendous impact on medical student training and development.
“It is a privilege to be welcomed by the Wards 7 and 8 community to implement this unique program,” said Nikita Menta and Savanna Vidal, GW SMHS medical students and clinic co-directors. “This partnership enriches our education through exposure to skin conditions in diverse skin tones and dermatologic health disparities while also nurturing our abilities to listen to and connect with the community we serve.”
Together with Johnson & Johnson, the GW Teledermatology Clinic and Health Fair remains committed to addressing the enduring challenges in healthcare access, enhancing the quality of life for countless individuals.
About the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences:
This year, the George Washington University (GW) School of Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS) is hosting its Bicentennial Celebration. As the first medical school in the nation’s capital and the 11th oldest in the country, GW has been at the forefront of medical education, training the generations of compassionate health care professionals for 200 years. Today, we are making a significant impact on the Washington, D.C., community and beyond through medicine, education, and discovery. Please visit the Bicentennial section of the SMHS website for updates and the latest event information at bicentennial.smhs.gwu.edu.
About the Teledermatology Program
The Telemedicine Clinic and Health Fair Program, a collaboration between George Washington University and the National Psoriasis Foundation, provides dermatological and preventive care services to underserved communities in Washington, D.C., with a focus on equity and accessibility.
About Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson is a global leader in healthcare innovation, dedicated to improving lives and advancing health equity through strategic investments and partnerships in community-driven initiatives.
