Acne? There’s an app for that! – Spruce Health
- In a world in which some of our biggest decisions are made with the swipe of a finger, visiting a dermatologist can seem like quite a production. Not to worry–there’s a new app for that. Spruce Health redefines the traditional approach to the acne dilemma and offers a unique and effective telemedicine experience, a digital solution in which dermatology meets technology. You can now address your acne problems without the hassle of arranging, confirming, commuting, or waiting for an appointment. Just. Like. That.
What is Spruce?
- Spruce is an application that allows for remote diagnosis and treatment by a board certified dermatologist via your smartphone. Focusing strictly on acne at this point, this truly unique concept is incredibly user friendly. Non-intimidating, the app is extremely intuitive and guides you through each step, which makes the entire experience stress free and crystal clear.
Whom is it for?
- Anyone suffering from cystic acne, whiteheads, blackheads, and other flaming skin imperfections known to ruin your day. With plans for rapid growth, currently, Spruce offers its services in California, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania for anyone 18 years or older. The expansion also includes the addition of an Android app to complement the Apple version available at the moment.
How does it work?
- Upon launching the Spruce app, you are asked to provide three selfies (front facing camera on your phone). After grabbing one head on and a view from each side, you answer questions that reflect your skin type, past and present concerns regarding your acne, prior experience with over the counter products, and your medical history. Lastly, you indicate your pharmacy, which is super easy since Spruce utilizes the location services feature on the phone. Your case is then submitted to be reviewed by a doctor.
And then?
- Within 24 hours of completing the Spruce experience, you receive an answer from a board certified dermatologist who determines the most suitable approach for your acne dilemma. Based on the photos provided, your doctor prescribes the most effective solution to battle your skin condition and sends it directly for fulfillment to your pharmacy of choice. Included are detailed instructions along with what to expect and when to follow up, if necessary.
Let’s do it!
- When asked if I would try out the app, I thought, “of course!”. My skin can always benefit from the opinion of a professional. A Pro at selfies, the first step was a breeze. The handful of questions made me feel I could confidently express my concerns. I was happy to see that the survey included more than the customary ticking off of boxes. Spruce allows its users to include notes in a three step process, which adds a conversational tone to this digital experience.
What’s next?
- A pop up message on my screen came from Spruce in record time. Within an hour I had a note from my Care Coordinator who kindly volunteered to check on whether my insurance covers the prescribed medication. Since the messaging option within the app enables image attachments, I was able to take a quick snap of my Cigna card, which I sent to Holly.
- That same afternoon, I received a reply from my new dermatologist, Dr. Maria Robinson. She prescribed a tube of Tazorac cream to help me battle the occasional cystic breakouts and my constantly congested pores. Indicating my familiarity with this Retinol ointment in the questionnaire, Dr. Robinson took into account my preference for the cream vs. gel formula as well as the lower strength of 0.05% I had used successfully in the past.
- Holly (Care Coordinator) followed up to advise that my pharmacy requested additional information in order to process the Tazorac request, which Spruce provided within an hour. Impressed by the competence of the very dynamic Spruce team, my prescription was ready for pick up the next day.
How much?
- While the app is free to download from the Apple Store, a Spruce visit costs $40 excluding the cost of any prescription. Thinking back to my appointments with a dermatologist, I’m remembering a co-pay of at least $30 and that didn’t include the cab ride, the latte enroute, or the three hour time investment. Considering the priceless convenience Spruce offers, this is a pretty great deal. The log in requirement necessary to access the app protects your credit card and any medical information you share.
Should you?
- YES! Dealing with acne is never pleasant, so the seamless process of using the Spruce app is much appreciated. If you’re skeptical about telemedicine, don’t think of it as a competition between technology and medicine, but rather a way to maximize the potential of both delivering efficiently rewarding results. Beyond its simple navigation tools, each screen projects a clean and crisp design aesthetic. With no chance of messing up, you can always go back to a previous question so there’s no need to panic! By utilizing the location and notification services, you’re assured a dynamic and productive Spruce experience.
Win a FREE Spruce visit!
- If you live in CA, FL, NY, or PA, Spruce is generously offering 15 complimentary consultations with a board certified dermatologist – each valued at $40. To enter, please click HERE and send me your name, age, and the state in which you live. The contest ends on March 23, 2015. Winners will be notified via email by March 30th, 2015. Please keep in mind that while the visit itself is free, you or your insurance will be responsible for any medications you may be prescribed. One entry per person. Void where prohibited.
