Optimizing the HS Clinic Visit: Overcoming Barriers to Care for the Busy Clinician

In this webinar, Leandra Barnes discusses strategies to optimize clinic visits for patients with Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), a chronic inflammatory skin condition. With a prevalence of 1% in the U.S. and an average diagnostic delay of 7 to 10 years, HS disproportionately affects women and minorities, leading to significant barriers to care such as inadequate treatment options, cost, and stigma. Barnes emphasizes the importance of understanding these barriers from both the patient and clinician perspectives. Key strategies to improve care include preparing for visits by reviewing patient information in advance, educating support staff, and creating efficient clinic environments with necessary supplies. During consultations, it is crucial to build trust through empathy, clear communication, and addressing each patient's unique concerns. The discussion also covers the significance of educating patients on HS myths, treatment options, and the importance of follow-up care. Providing after-visit handouts and developing triage systems can enhance patient management and minimize emergency visits. Overall, improving HS care requires a collaborative, informed approach to address the multifaceted challenges faced by both patients and healthcare providers.