PHOTOMEDICINE
UNIT
At the Rhode Island Hospital Photomedicine Department, we understand
the devastating effects that psoriasis and other skin problems can have
on your daily life. We pledge to provide you with appropriate treatments,
using state-of-the-art equipment, administered by specially trained, knowledgeable
nurses in a friendly stress free environment.
Martin A. Weinstock, M.D.,
Ph.D., Director, Division of Photomedicine
Photomedicine Nurses
FACTS
ABOUT PHOTOTHERAPY
What is Phototherapy?
Phototherapy is the exposure to ultraviolet light rays for the purpose of treating
various skin disorders. It has been administered since the 1920's by dermatology
nurses who understand and instruct patients in the relationship between natural
and artificial light sources and the short and long term effects of each.
What Diseases are Treated with Phototherapy?
The vast majority of our patients have psoriasis, a skin disorder affecting
as many as 6 million Americans. However, there are many other disorders that
may respond to ultraviolet exposure, such as eczema, vitiligo, and cutaneous
T-cell lymphoma. Also, patients who suffer from certain forms of severe itching
(e.g. due to kidney and liver problems) may benefit from treatments. Your dermatologist
determines if phototherapy is appropriate for you.
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Are All Treatments the Same?
No. Ultraviolet A rays (UVA) and ultraviolet B rays (UVB) are therapeutically
used for treatment. Each type of ultraviolet light produces a different
response. Your dermatologist will determine the type of ultraviolet light
that is appropriate for you, as well as dose and frequency. Most treatments
are administered with full body exposure in an upright booth lined with
fluorescent bulbs which emit either UVA or UVB rays. We provide the latest
in phototherapy technology, including narrow-band UVB. Treatments can
also be administered to hands and feet only.
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What is PUVA?
PUVA involves treatment with UVA and psoralen (a medication which
increases sensitivity to ultraviolet light). It is most often used to
treat severe or disabling psoriasis which has not responded well to
UVB. It can also be used to treat vitiligo (a loss of pigmentation of
the skin) and other disorders. Psoralen can be taken orally, applied
to affected skin in an ointment form, or by soaking in a bathtub
containing a solution of water and liquid psoralen. There are
precautions and side effects that must be thoroughly understood
before treatment begins. If PUVA therapy is prescribed for you, we
schedule a "teaching" time to explain all aspects of this treatment
to you.
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What is Psoriasis "Day Treatment"?
Some people with severe psoriasis are referred to us for
intense, comprehensive treatment with UVB and coal tar. We
are one of approximately 30 centers in the country who
provide this service. The patient attends our center each
day for UVB treatments and application of coal tar, with
daily evaluation and supervision by our staff of
phototherapy nurses. Between treatments, patients can relax
in our suite which includes a community room with TV, VCR,
and exercise equipment. A quiet room for napping and an
office with a desk, phone, and modem port are adjacent.
Also, kitchenette facilities are accessible and stocked with
snacks and drinks.
It is necessary for a "day-treatment" patient to be ambulatory and able
to spend approximately 7 hours daily for proper treatment, Monday through
Saturday. Evening hours are also available. Several weeks of this regimen
are necessary for optimal results. The patient is evaluated by his/her
dermatologist on a weekly basis.
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Who Administers the Phototherapy Treatments?
In accordance with your dermatologists orders, our staff of specially trained,
experienced phototherapy nurses will administer
your treatments. Your skin is evaluated by the nurse prior to each treatment
and adjustments in your dose of ultraviolet light may be made, depending on
many criteria. Our nurses keep your dermatologist informed of your response
to treatment on a regular basis. Our phototherapy nurses have received specialized
training in phototherapy and have a combined total of more than 40 years of
phototherapy experience.
What About Parking and Accessibility?
The phototherapy department is located in the Jane Brown Building at Rhode Island
Hospital. Ample parking is provided adjacent to the building for your convenience
and a coupon for free parking is provided to you at each visit. You never have
to pay for parking. The main entrance to the Jane Brown Building is handicap
accessible.
Rhode
Island Hospital Directions/Parking/Map
The hours of operation are:
Mon-Fri 7:00 AM-10:00 PM
Sat 7:00 AM-3:30 PM
Sun 7:30 AM-12:30 PM
We are not open on holidays
Will My Insurance Cover Phototherapy Treatments?
Phototherapy treatments are covered by most insurance carriers, but
pre-authorization may be required prior to beginning treatments. Some
insurance companies require copayment. Our business office
representative is available to answer questions regarding insurance.
To reach the unit or to make appointments:
Phone: (401) 444-4848
Fax: (401) 444-7410