FAQs

What does DormDerm do exactly?

Our doctors treat facial acne over the Internet. Through our secure DormDerm website, an experienced, board certified dermatologist will review your photos and prescribe treatment for your specific condition without you having to leave your home or dorm room.

How much does it cost?

Because medical insurance does not cover consultations delivered over the Internet, our doctors have agreed to keep the cost of the examination at $39, near the price of most insurance co-payments.

Will my medical insurance pay for my consultation?

Again, because insurance plans do not pay for medical consultations delivered over the web, you will be responsible for payment.

Will my medical insurance plan pay for my prescription medications?

Co-pays vary, but the cost of prescription medications from DormDerm should be handled by your insurance plan in the same way it would be handled had you visited a dermatologist in person. We will work with you to reduce costs if your co-pays are high. Note that many pharmaceutical manufacturers provide very valuable coupons for their branded medicines that can supplement your insurance. Be sure to visit www.internetdrugcoupons.com before you pick up any prescription.

I am not yet 18, can I use DormDerm?

We will need consent from your parent or guardian to treat you. Please use the Contact Us form and we will help get you started.

My acne is not that bad. Why should I use DormDerm to see a dermatologist?

You do not need to have severe acne to see a dermatologist. You should seek treatment by a doctor if you have never been treated for your acne or are unhappy with results from over-the-counter remedies. Your DormDerm dermatologist will provide an individualized approach to treating your breakouts with prescription strength medications. See http://www.skincarephysicians.com/acnenet/index.html from the American Academy of Dermatology for more information about acne and treatments.

Can you get rid of my acne really fast?

Not really fast. With the right treatment virtually every case of acne can be cleared up, but resolution takes time. You should start to see results in three to four weeks, however it could take longer. Most people require several adjustments in medication before they achieve good control. You must be patient and do not give up!

How does the consultation work?

The process is simple. You complete a short medical questionnaire and upload three pictures of your face to our secure server: front, right profile and left profile. You can take them yourself with a digital camera. Do not use a cell phone or computer cameras. A board-certified dermatologist who is licensed in your state then reviews your photographs, makes a diagnosis, and recommends a course of treatment. When appropriate, prescriptions are automatically sent to the pharmacy of your choice. Your payment for the consultation is made by an ordinary online credit card transaction.

How will my progress be followed?

It is important that your progress is monitored and that your medications are adjusted accordingly. You should come back and send us new photos when your medications begin to run out. Lapses in treatment will result in recurrences. If you are taking an oral medication you will need to see us in 4 weeks. If you are using only topical medications, we will need to see you in 6-to-8 weeks. Refills will be issued at the time of your follow up visits.

Do I still have to pay for my consultation if the doctor cannot treat my acne remotely?

Severe acne requires in-person treatment. If this is the case, the consulting dermatologist will recommend that you visit a local physician for follow-up. Yes, you still have to pay for your consultation. The cost is for the dermatologist to review your condition, just like there is a cost for an in-person office visit.

Do you keep my information private?

We take your privacy and confidentiality very seriously. Please see our privacy statement below for details.

What do I do if I want to schedule a consultation but my state is not listed?

Currently DormDerm contracts only with dermatologists licensed in New York. Please check back frequently as we plan to get to your state soon.