Fewer than 1 in 5 dermatology patients read their clinic notes online after a visit, according to a new study. Engagement varied significantly by race, language, and clinician factors, raising concerns about equitable access to health information. The findings highlight a largely untapped opportunity to improve patient engagement in dermatology care.
A retrospective study of over 57,000 dermatology visits in 2024 found that only 18.9% of patients viewed their clinic notes through an electronic patient portal within four weeks of their appointment. The research, published in JAMA Dermatology, was conducted at an urban academic dermatology practice in New England and sheds light on who is — and isn't — engaging with their health records.
The disparities are striking. Black and Hispanic patients were significantly less likely to view notes compared to White patients, and non-English-speaking patients were 41% less likely to do so. Male patients, patients of more experienced dermatologists, and patients of male dermatologists also showed lower engagement rates. On the flip side, new patients, Asian patients, Medicare beneficiaries, and those who had procedures were more likely to check their notes.
Key Takeaways:
Why it matters: Open notes policies were designed to empower patients, but this study reveals that access alone doesn't guarantee engagement. Addressing language barriers, clinician communication styles, and digital literacy gaps will be essential to making patient portals truly equitable tools in dermatology — and likely across all specialties.
