Perceived Usefulness, Ease of Use, and Intention to Use Telemedicine Among Dermatologists in Taiwan

Introduction: Telemedicine can be a vital tool for increasing health care access in dermatology. While dermatologists’ perceptions about telemedicine are critical for adoption; unfortunately, there is scant research on perceived usefulness, ease of use, and intention to use telemedicine—and factors associated with these perceptions—among dermatologists. With comprehensive reimbursement for tele-dermatology through its National Health Insurance, Taiwan offers a unique environment to study these critical adoption factors among dermatologists. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of dermatologists, developed based on the Technology Acceptance Model, was conducted between March and June 2022. Descriptive statistics were used to describe current use and perceptions. Multivariate generalized linear regressions were used to identify factors associated with perceptions on and intention to use tele-dermatology. Results: Among the 88 dermatologists surveyed, 60% reported prior use of tele-dermatology, and 77% noted that COVID-19 increased their willingness to use. Compatibility with current work practices was associated with greater perceived usefulness (β = 0.369; p = 0.015). Personal self-efficacy was associated with greater perceived ease of use (β = 0.339; p = 0.003). Finally, greater behavioral intention to use was associated with organizational facilitating conditions (β = 0.297; p = 0.005) and administrative policy and regulations (β = 0.425; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The perceived usefulness of tele-dermatology was associated with compatibility with dermatologists’ current work practices, while ease of use was associated with their self-efficacy. Despite the low perception on usefulness or ease of use, dermatologists’ intention to use tele-dermatology was influenced by facilitating conditions and external policies. Policy makers should prioritize maintaining supportive regulatory environments and enhancing organizational facilitating conditions.