Interactive medicine: resources in dermatology and dermatologic surgery.

The Internet has proved to be a useful resource in various fields of medicine. Within the field of Dermatology, Internet sites appeal to specialists in dermatology, non-specialist physicians, medical students, and the lay public. In the past 2 years, United States physicians' regular Internet use has increased 300%, according to an ongoing study conducted by the Santa Clara-based Healtheon Corporation. The phenomenon of increased Internet usage is explainable. Patients have access to the Internet and often consult net sources before they see their physician; therefore, it is very important that physicians are likewise "connected" to enhance patient communication. Careful study of approximately 300 Internet sites has yielded a reader-friendly presentation of only the sites that should be most useful to practitioners, medical students, and the lay public. The objective is to promote public health through doctor-patient communication and through the use of valuable interactive medical resources.