VisualDX: Highlighting a Skin of Color Resource

Did you know that Geisinger Health Sciences Library subscribes to a visually-based, point of care resource known as VisualDX?  This subscription resource is available to visually reference patient diagnoses and build differential diagnoses all in one frame, with the added benefit of its unique Skin of Color tool. 

The Skin of Color feature of VisualDX supports equity in healthcare through diagnostic resources for patients with a variety of skin tones and pigments, specifically with evidence-based care in mind for patients of color.

Starting from the library’s homepage, click on VisualDX under Point of Care Tools in the bottom menu (hint: it’s the first on the list!).

The VisualDX interface lets you search by symptom, medication, or diagnosis, by common or controlled vocabulary along with suggested searches as you type.  The colorful Quick Start by Category allows you to browse via a guided search path for specific problem areas, including a dedicated category for Dermatology: Skin of Color searches.

VisualDX’s hosts more than 3,200 diagnoses and 45,000 medical images, includes its one-of-a-kind Skin of Color panel.  Using the Skin of Color panel in any entry’s results, or by adding Skin of Color filter to the initial search results page, you can easily vary the skin pigment using real medical images for visual demonstration of a condition.  VisualDX’s images are complemented by the Sympticons results, which are useful for visual instruction as well.  Both Skin of Color and Sympticons are able to be included or excluded as per searching need and preference.

In addition to VisualDX being available in its desktop format, users are encouraged to set up a personal VisualDX account, which will allow access to the VisualDX Mobile App for reference on-the-go as well as to collect CME credits.  Please visit the printable handout on how to Create Your VisualDX & Mobile App Accounts here, or email hsl@geisinger.edu for more information.